Abstract

This thesis explores the geopolitical implications of energy discoveries in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea (EMS) region, with a particular focus on Lebanon's role within this complex dynamic. The research examines how energy governance, security challenges, and regional conflict and cooperation shape Lebanon's ability to leverage its energy resources from 2012 to 2022. Through interviews with thirty top professionals in the field, the study offers an in-depth examination of the evolving geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics resulting from maritime boundary disputes, regional tensions, and Lebanon’s energy potential.While energy discoveries in the EMS region present significant opportunities, Lebanon faces challenges in unlocking its full potential due to internal and external factors. The central argument of the thesis posits that Lebanon’s energy sector remains underdeveloped due to political instability, unresolved maritime disputes, and internal governance issues. The study identifies several factors in energy governance and energy security as primary obstacles to Lebanon’s effective participation in regional energy developments. The thesis underscores the potential for energy cooperation among EMS countries, including Lebanon, Cyprus, and Israel as a key to fostering economic interdependence, reducing regional tensions, and promoting long-term stability which is critically important for regional cooperation. It also emphasizes that energy resources in the EMS are not a 'silver bullet' for resolving all conflicts; rather, they represent a 'double-edged sword' —while they have the power to drive cooperation, they also intensify geopolitical tensions, making economic interdependence the only essential tool for resolving conflicts and ensuring energy security. The study provides valuable strategic insights and practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders, advocating for seizing the opportunities presented by energy resources to enhance collaboration and promote effective energy diplomacy, thereby unlocking the full potential of the EMS region.

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Date

2025

Embargo Period

2025-05-01

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License

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