Shifting Narratives and Evolving Roles: An Analysis of Qatari Foreign Policy Roles Since 1995

Abstract

The field of foreign policy has been extensively studied, yet the evolving circumstances of the contemporary global landscape have generated renewed interest in researching this subject. This thesis aims to shed light on the strategic use of narratives by policymakers, and how these narratives have facilitated significant shifts in foreign policy direction and roles. The thesis seeks to make a valuable contribution to the literature on Foreign Policy Analysis by concentrating on a compelling case study: Qatar, a small but influential country in the Middle East that has encountered numerous obstacles on its path to emerging as a prominent player in the region. Much of the change in Qatar's foreign policy can be traced back to the rule of Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, who came to power through a bloodless coup in 1995. Hamad bin Khalifa recognised the changing political climate in the Middle East and sought to adopt reformist measures that aligned with Qatari principles of Kaabat al-Madhyum and Wahhabism. This thesis examines Qatar's foreign policy trajectory from 1995 to 2022, with a focus on turning points, including crises such as the Arab Spring. The study employs an interpretivist approach, using strategic narrative and role theory as foundational frameworks for explaining Qatar's foreign policy. Data were collected through interviews, policy documents, and primary sources, including media articles and speeches, which were thematically coded and organised for presentation. The findings suggest that although Qatar's foreign policy underwent significant changes during the study period, there was a link between the decisions made and the language used in speeches to Kaabat al-Madhyum, which emphasised hosting, saving, and empowering people in need. There were also direct links to Wahhabism to glorify the role of Ulamma to lead the reform in the region, although the policymakers shifted from openly acknowledging Wahhabism to a more subdued approach over time. This thesis provides a valuable contribution to the existing research on Qatar's foreign policy by offering a new lens through which to examine it. Show more