The book review titled "Neoliberalism and English Language Education Policies in the Arabian Gulf," authored by Habib Abdesslem, discusses O. Z. Barnawi's book, which critically examines the impact of neoliberal policies on English language education within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The primary focus of the book is on the challenges these policies pose to the cultural and religious values of the local populations in these regions.
The purpose of the review is to provide an overview of Barnawi's arguments and insights, particularly regarding how GCC countries can navigate the tension between adopting neoliberal education models and preserving Islamic traditions and cultural identity. The review highlights the book's exploration of various education policies across the six GCC states and their implications for local populations.
The methodology of the book, as described in the review, includes qualitative analyses of policy documents, interviews, and media reports. Barnawi provides a detailed examination of each GCC country's approach to English language education within the broader context of neoliberalism, offering a comparative perspective across the region.
Key findings from Barnawi's book, as summarized in the review, indicate that while English is widely recognized as essential for economic and technological success, there is significant concern among local populations regarding the compatibility of neoliberal principles with Islamic values. The review notes that countries like the UAE and Qatar have embraced neoliberalism more fully, leading to social tensions and policy reversals, whereas Oman and Saudi Arabia have been more cautious in their approach.
The review concludes by endorsing Barnawi's call for GCC countries to "tame" neoliberalism by ensuring that education policies align with local cultural and religious values. The book is presented as a valuable resource for scholars and policymakers interested in the intersection of neoliberalism, education, and cultural identity in the Arabian Gulf.