A continued presence of Christians in the Middle East is perceived as at risk due to demographic change, adverse socio-economic conditions, political instability, conflict, and migration. Indeed, from making up 12.7% of the population in the Middle East in 1900, the Christian presence has dwindled to 4% by 2020, with a notable decline in countries with a considerable Christian population but affected by conflict, such as Iraq and Syria. Indigenous to the region, Christians are proud of their contributions to the education, society, and politics of the Middle East. Yet, they struggle to translate these forms of soft power into political actions that address legislation, practices, and violence that infringe their rights as citizens. Relationships with powerful Western actors campaigning against the persecution of Christians have led to international visibility but also accusations of undermining national unity from political and societal actors in the region. This paper explores the different strategies pursued by Middle East Christians in the region and diaspora to be recognized as Christians and claim their rights as citizens.

Fiona McCallum Guiney is Professor and Head of the School of International Relations at the University of St Andrews in Scotland. Her research on Middle Eastern Christians focuses on group identity, the connection between legitimacy and religious leadership, and group interactions at the state-community and society-community levels, both in the Middle East and diaspora. Professor Guiney was the Project Leader of the EU funded study ‘Defining and Identifying Middle Eastern Christian Communities in Europe’. She is a former Director of the Institute of Middle East, Central Asia and Caucasus Studies at the University of St Andrews.

If there is anything we can do to make this event accessible to you, please contact us. Please be aware that advance notice is necessary as some accommodations may require more time for the university to arrange. Contact: [email protected]