NEW REGIONALISM AND OLD ISSUES IN THE MIDDLE EAST

The concept of regionalism is based on identity, i.e. the cultural, historical, political association of individuals, peoples, states, leaders with a certain region. Regionalization is associated with institution-building or the conclusion of formal agreements which are sometimes substituted or supplemented by informal ties. The article analyzes the processes of regionalization in the Middle East. Regionalization in the Middle East is affected by contradictory trends. The Middle East has always been considered a highly conflict-prone zone, little affected by changes in the external environment. The conflicts themselves have become the system-forming elements, which in their own way tightened this space and ensured the building of coalitions and alliances. Modern conflicts, most of which have become rapidly internationalizing intra-state confrontations, and the general increase in militarization are still eminent characteristics of the Middle East subsystem of international relations. At the same time, the trends towards the rapprochement of individual opponents and normalization are becoming clearer, and their further development could possibly play an integration role in the future. The involvement of both states and non-state or quasi-state actors in these processes is noteworthy. There is a growing independence of the leading regional states as well as an activation of small countries driven by their national interests. The continued fragmentation of the Middle East cannot be equaled to the absence of common features of regional identity and interdependence of states. It also does not exclude the attempts of different parties to develop group strategies in response to common challenges. The building of new logistics and transport routes, the expansion of trade and economic relations between individual countries have all contributed to the regionalization of the Middle East.