The role of the European Union in the Middle East conflict after the Annapolis conference

Abstract

The importance of the Middle East Conflict arises from its effects on stability in the Middle East, Europe and the rest of the world. This dissertation gives a brief historical background about the conflict marking important dates and events especially those that brought big changes to the region. It focuses on the Annapolis Peace Conference of 2007 and outlines its main aims and outcomes. The dissertation particularly questions its importance to the Middle East Peace Process. Moreover, the obstacles that have prevented a peaceful solution between Israel and Palestine will be discussed and analysed. One of the conclusions reached is that despite the several attempts to reach agreements between both parties, the obstacles have increased and deepened. Finally and most importantly, the dissertation underlines the EU's contribution to the conflict through its several programmes and operations. It also questions whether the EU is completely fulfilling its role in the Middle East Peace Process.