De-securitizing through Diplomacy: De-sectarianization and the View from the Islamic Republic

Abstract

As a country often defined in terms of its sectarian identity, the Islamic Republic provides an interesting test case for the notion of de-sectarianization. Iran’s position as the pre-eminent Shi’a-majority power in the region has presented it with opportunities to draw on its historical confessional linkages, but it also singles it out as a unique case. Building upon the theoretical and conceptual frameworks provided by the sectarianization thesis, de-securitization, and insights from diplomatic studies, this paper presents empirical examples from Iran’s Eurasian and religious diplomacy that provide a potential starting point for de-sectarianization of the region’s fractious international politics.

Keywords:

• Iran
• diplomacy
• securitization
• de-securitization
• de-sectarianization

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Samira Nasirzadeh

Samira Nasirzadeh is a PhD candidate in International Relations, Associate Lecturer and Research fellow at Richardson Institute based in Lancaster University. Her Research falls broadly within the discipline of International Relations, focusing on the Middle East. More specifically, her research explores securitization through sectarianization across the Middle East and how the events of Arab Uprisings have changed the region, particularly focusing on the case studies of Bahrain and Yemen as well as conflicts between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Edward Wastnidge

Edward Wastnidge is Lecturer in Politics and International Studies at the Open University. His research focuses on Iranian foreign and domestic politics, exploring the intersection of ideas and foreign policy, and Iran’s cultural and religious diplomacy. He is currently the Deputy Director of SEPAD and co-editor of the Identities and Geopolitics of the Middle East book series with MUP. His monograph, Diplomacy and Reform in Iran: Foreign Policy under Khatami, was published by I.B. Tauris.