Here are the three courses done at GU-Q, along with reflections and insights from my Media and Politics Minor:
This seminar course explored Qatar's energy strategy as a key tool in global diplomacy and economic diversification. It covered how Qatar's investments through the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) have expanded its influence in sectors like technology, real estate, and sports. The course also highlighted Qatar’s use of Al Jazeera and media campaigns to enhance its image as a reliable energy supplier, especially during crises like the 2017 Gulf blockade and the Russia-Ukraine war, positioning Qatar as a key player in global energy politics.
The politics of diversity and integration are shaped by historical, cultural, and ideological factors that influence policies across different nations. By analyzing multiculturalism in countries like the UK, Germany, Denmark, Canada, and France, it becomes clear that these policies are deeply connected to national identities and political priorities. Key discussions revealed how political rhetoric affects migration policies and public opinion, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between integration, national identity, and social cohesion.
Middle Eastern women are often portrayed in media as passive victims, neglecting their agency and the influence of local feminist movements like Huda Shaarawi’s work in Egypt. Scholars like Lila Abu-Lughod critique Western narratives and stress the need to understand these women through their own cultural contexts. Examining the gendered impacts of conflict, especially for Palestinian women, shows how their experiences are often overlooked. A more critical approach to media representations leads to a deeper, contextually informed understanding of gender issues in the region.