Economic integration in the Middle East: Israeli‒Palestinian fresh food trade. Issue 3 (4th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dobers, Geesche M.; Ihle, Rico; Kachel, Yael; Liebe, Ulf
• Is Part Of: Israel affairs. Volume 24:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 421
• Page End: 441
• Publication Date: 2018-05-04
• Subjects: Food trade -- Israel -- political conflict -- Realistic Group Conflict Theory -- Theory of Liberal Peace; Israel -- History -- 1933- -- Periodicals; 956.94054
• DOI: 10.1080/13537121.2018.1455955
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-7121

Abstract

Abstract: Violent political conflict results in socioeconomic fragmentation and hampers economic development. In contrast, trade crucially depends on cooperation. The article empirically analyses at the micro-level whether economic interactions affect political attitudes. Trading relations between Israelis and Palestinians are found to be extensive despite the conflict. Education and personal social networks facilitate contacts. Israeli traders do not see themselves as affected by the conflict, but wish for its quick settlement. This lends support to the Rational Group Conflict Theory and the Theory of Liberal Peace. Daily contacts are found to create positive functional interdependence which may be effective in fostering reconciliation in the Middle East.