Center for Middle East Studies

The Center for Middle East Studies offers political expertise, curricular and co-curricular programs with the Institute for Comparative and Regional Studies (ICRS). It supports the study and understanding of the societies, political systems, and international relations of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The CMES organizes conferences, community learning, courses on the Middle East, student exchange programs, and a student-led club. Its mission of advancing understanding of the Middle East goes beyond the University to include scholars, policy-makers, and the interested public in Denver and throughout the Rocky Mountain region. A specific focus of the Center's work is the relationship between human rights and geopolitics in the Middle East and North Africa.

Our Mission

The Center for Middle East Studies supports the study and understanding of the societies, political systems, and international relations of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a specific focus on the relationship between human rights and geopolitics. The center organizes conferences, community learning, courses on the Middle East, student exchange programs, and a student-led club. Our mission to advance understanding of the Middle East includes scholars, policy-makers, and interested publics in Denver and throughout the Rocky Mountain region.

"The Middle East and North Africa is not a monolith, but a mosaic of diverse cultures, histories, and conflicting perspectives. To understand it and promote universal human rights, we must embrace its complexity and seek knowledge beyond simplistic narratives.”

- Micheline Ishay, Director, Center for Middle East Studies

Previous Events: 2024-2025

Realign for Palestine: In Conversation with Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib

May 6. 2025

The Korbel School hosts a conversation with Gazan Analyst and Peacemaker, Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib. Alkhatib is also a resident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council.

The Middle East at a Crossroads: What Comes Next?

Feb. 28, 2025

The Center for Middle East Studies presents an important conversation around the Middle East, including power shifts in the region, the Gaza war, ongoing crises created, and opportunities for the future.

Panelists:
Ambassador (Ret.) and Korbel Distinguished fellow, Gary Grappo
Dr. Lawrence Garber, University of Denver Adjunct Professor and Former USAID Senior Official
Dr. Micheline Ishay, Korbel Professor and Director of the Center for Middle East Studies
Dr. Ahmed Abdrabou, Korbel Associate Professor and Associate Director of the Center for Middle East Studies

October 7 and Beyond: A Path to Peace?

Oct. 16, 2024

The Center for Middle East Studies hosts a compelling conversation between Palestinian and Israeli peace activists, Aziz Abu Sarah and Maoz Inon. Blessed by Pope Francis for their courageous efforts amid conflict, they discuss the challenges and possibilities for peace in the wake of recent events.

The Middle East in Review: One Year After October 7

Sept. 24, 2024

Oct.The Center for Middle East Studies at the Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs held an expert panel that examined the Israel/Palestine conflict and broader regional tensions since October 7.

Panelists:
Dr. Ahmed Abdrabou, Teaching Associate Professor of International Studies
Gary Grappo, U.S. Ambassador (former) Distinguished Fellow
Dr. Micheline Ishay, Professor of International Studies
Dr. Aaron Pilkington, US Air Force Analyst on Iran.