The Arab world has been long afflicted by multiple forms of armed conflict, a trend that has been increasing notably in the past decade. To reverse this trend and set the Arab world on a path to sustainable peace and recovery, it is vital to have a clear understanding of the trajectory of conflict in the region. This report is part of a wider effort by the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies (CHS) to examine and contextualise issues related to conflict and peacemaking within the region in comparative and historical perspectives.
The report was conducted and published in collaboration with the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO). The aim is to describe and analyse trends in conflict in the Arab world from 1946 to 20191, and to compare the region with regional and global conflict trends, which fluctuate throughout history. Whilst some conflict trends can be readily discerned, others require more in- depth research to observe and analyse. The report examines a range of statistical data and provides in-depth analysis and interpretations of what these data suggest. It unpacks conflict trends in the Arab world beyond simplistic enumeration of conflict events or occurrences, offering a more comprehensive and accurate overview. Crucially for the regional analysis, the report contextualises, regionalises, and localises explanations and interpretations of the data.
The report is intended as a springboard from which to generate intellectual discussion and exchange in and beyond the Arab region. We welcome correspondence and dialogue on alternative explanations and interpretations of the data contained herein.