Middle East Studies Association

United States · International Affairs

The Middle East Studies Association (MESA) is a non-profit scholarly organization established in 1966. It is dedicated to promoting the study of the Middle East and enhancing public understanding of the region and its peoples. With over 2,700 individual members and more than fifty institutional affiliates, MESA serves as a leading society in Middle East studies. MESA's mission focuses on enhancing education, facilitating intellectual exchange, and defending academic freedom. The organization advocates for its members on issues related to scholarship and human rights, and it operates a Committee on Academic Freedom. MESA organizes an annual conference where members present research, participate in panels, and engage in networking events. Additionally, it produces publications and resources that support education in Middle East studies, including advocacy reports and materials on academic freedom. MESA fosters a vibrant scholarly community and promotes rigorous academic standards for scholars, educators, and institutions involved in Middle East studies.