The Colonial State in the Middle East and North Africa

This paper examines the socio-economic, political, and cultural impacts of European colonialism in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), focusing on the ways colonial systems reshaped governance, trade, and development in the region. It highlights the introduction of export-oriented economies, resource extraction, and agricultural policies that prioritised metropolitan interests over local needs, exacerbating socio-economic inequalities. The study explores how colonial legacies influenced public goods provision, schooling, and trade networks, leading to persistent disparities in wealth, education, and infrastructure. While colonial rule disrupted traditional societal structures, it also spurred nationalist movements and modest advancements in primary education in some regions. Using a combination of historical and economic analysis, this paper illustrates the enduring effects of colonialism on the region’s institutional and developmental trajectories.