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This book is a personal narrative chronicling the life and experiences of Shireen Hunter, an Iranian woman who came of age during a transformative era in Iran's history. It begins by spanning the tumultuous aftermath of World War II to the pivotal 1979 revolution, providing a poignant account of the profound impact of these historical events on the author's life.
The book delves into the multifaceted consequences of the reformist period that began in the 1960s. They enabled Shireen to enter the diplomatic service, but also cast a shadow of adversity over her family. Ultimately, the reforms contributed to internal divisions that ignited the 1979 revolution.
The book then explores Shireen's immigrant experience in the USA, where she assumed the role of an "ethnic expert" in the volatile arena of Middle East politics. It candidly recounts challenges she faced in maintaining intellectual integrity while earning a livelihood, highlighting the precariousness of being on the right side of controversial issues.
The book does not offer definitive solutions to specific problems. Yet it resonates with contemporary international security and developmental challenges and offers insights that remain relevant in today's complex global landscape.
With its multifaceted narrative encompassing Iran's social and political history, women's studies, immigrant experiences, and a personal perspective on critical junctures in U.S.-Iranian relations, this book appeals to a diverse readership. It provides a unique window into "lived" experiences and analytical reflections of an individual who has traversed the intersections of history, identity, and diplomacy, offering invaluable insights into both past and present.
List of contents
Introduction.- Chapter I) My Hometown and My family.- Chapter II ) Early Childhood in Tabriz.- Chapter III) Early Teens.- Chapter IV) University Years.- Chapter V) Start of Diplomatic Career.- Chapter VI ) Return to the Ministry: Life as a Notetaker.- Chapter VII) Geneva and Introduction to Multilateral Diplomacy.- Chapter VIII) Life in America : The Early Years.- Chapter IX) Caught in Iran Politics and US-Iran Confrontation.- Chapter X ) The Brussels Interlude.- Chapter XI) Return to Washington and to CSIS.- Chapter XII ) My Time at Georgetown University.
About the author
Shireen T. Hunter has more than fifty years’ experience in international affairs as a diplomat (Iranian Foreign Service, 1965-1979), think-tank analyst, and program director at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and the Centre for European Policy Studies (1983-2005). She joined Georgetown University’s Alwaleed Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding (2005-2019), as Senior Visiting Fellow, Visiting Professor, and Research Professor. She is now an ACMCU Honorary Fellow .
