HOW UNDERSTANDING MIDDLE EASTERN LAWS AND POLITICS CAN IMPACT EUROPEAN BUSINESS CONTRACTS
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Authors: Bashayer AlMajed
Keywords: law, Middle East, Shari'a, civil law
Abstract: The relationship between the Middle East and the Western World is currently a complex one, yet the relationship between Middle Eastern countries and Europe is old, built on strong trade links, shared legal systems and protectorates. It is easy to think of a country in the Arab Gulf and draw on assumptions of their culture and laws, but how well are these really understood, beyond what is heard in the press? How much do such assumptions hinder the building of solid business, political and social relationships? Legal systems across the area vary, and as such so does how they conduct business or interact with other states. It is not well known that many countries of the Middle East share a major source of their legal system, no not just Shari’a Law, but a source in Europe. As such there are more similarities between Arab and European law than may be realised. Perhaps better understanding of our similarities can help European and Arab businesses, legal professionals and humanitarians build better relationships, so we can better appreciate and utilise our differences. The paper will focus on the following areas: -Economy; -Politics and legal impact; -Do different regions in the Middle East adopt different strategies and what is the impact on EU countries?; -Contrasts and similarities in legal systems of the EU and Middle East; -Potential political and legal reforms and improvements between the two regions.