This fascinating title explores the significant global issues surrounding the politics, conflict, and violence of revolution and change in recent years in southwest Asia and North Africa. By going behind the media headlines, this important book examines the reasons why changes are taking place, who is involved in the changes, and what the public perceptions of these areas and their events are around the globe. From the Arab Spring to the Syrian refugee crisis, readers will look at the uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa and their global effects. Critical thinking questions, case studies, and debate sidebars help readers understand different perspectives about the uprisings, consider the importance of the countries involved to the rest of the world, and ask what the future holds for the region and its inhabitants.