Identity politics: A conundrum to conflict resolution in the Middle East: A case of Yemen.

Abstract

The study focuses on the role of identity politics in conflict resolution strategies in the Middle East region. It analyses the extent to which identity politics have become a conundrum to conflict resolution endeavors in the region. The research was guided by the hypothesis that identities and the politics thereof have become an enigma to conflict resolution strategies in the Middle East region and in Yemen in particular. The theory of Constructivism provided the framework of analysis. The study utilised the case study design wherein qualitative tools such as in depth interviews and documentary search with key informants were employed to gather data. Analysis of data was through the use of content analysis for documentary data and thematic analysis for interview data. Information obtained was then presented using emerging themes from the data. The study established that identities are a social construction phenomenon by individuals who share some common values, and act in a manner that pleases their interests. The study further notes that there exist varied identity groups in Yemeni society, divided by ethnicity, history and religious differences on Islam, each of them fighting for dominance and control of the limited resources. Conflict resolution efforts are then frustrated by these identities which resent a central government, but clamour for autonomy on tribal lines. Regional actors also complicate any conflict resolution undertakings in the country as they tend to support conflicting identities on kinship basis, and thereby creating a difficult situation in finding suitable regional mediators. The research recommends that problems to conflict resolution efforts in Yemen should be part and parcel of a regional settlement that establishes equality of independence for all people of various identities and states in order to guarantee an opening towards humane, integrationist and objective regional stability. Yemen is indeed part of a delicate regional equation, but it possesses specificities of its own, meaning that real solution for Yemen can only be conceived from within the Yemeni womb rather than outside. That must entail guarantees for a system of justice, dignity and real development in the North, one that also enables legal order and the restoration of rights.