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The Near and Middle East is a direct neighbour of the European Union. Exceeding this geographical proximity, the two focal points of the summer university 2014 are united by a long mutual history and a present not without conflicts, including political and economic interests and mutual dependences.The summer university 2014 will approach these issues from the angle of political sciences, economics, and sociology, as well as cultural and regional sciences. The ISU will thus profit from the skills and synergies of two scientific institutions at Marburg, the Center for Conflict Studies and the Center for Near and Middle Eastern Studies. Two representatives of these institutions are the academic directors of the ISU: PD Dr. Johannes M. Becker and   Dr. phil. Dr. h.c. Leslie Tramontini.StructureThe 16th Hessen International Summer University (ISU) offers a summer study program withseminars in German and English on the main topic,German language courses,credits (ECTS points),an extensive cultural program with weekend excursions, evening lectures, parties and more.Target GroupThe ISU program is especially intended for upper level bachelor degree students. All other students, researchers and teachers, working in the fields of politics, economics, culture and media who are interested in learning more about the topic and who would like to learn German from scratch or improve upon their German language skills are also cordially invited to participate.ISU - The Summer UniversityLocated in the heart of Germany, Marburg an der Lahn is a small, lively and safe medieval town with a long university tradition. The ISU location, university cafeteria and the romantic and picturesque old city with its castle, cafés, pubs, boutiques, as well as movie theatres, museums and theatres are all within walking distance. You will find your way around quickly.The ISU takes place at the University of Marburg, which was founded in 1527. With about 22,500 students and 8,000 staff members, it is one of Germany's medium-sized universities.Immediately upon your arrival in Marburg the ISU team and faculty members will begin to take care of your personal and academic needs which they will continue to do throughout the program. Weekend trips, evening events and special lectures provide a diverse program and complement your classroom studies. The activities and events also allow you to get to know each other better. You will learn a lot and feel at home.&#160;Hessen International Summer Universities (ISU) are a joint project of the universities and universities of applied sciences in the state of Hessen supported by the  Hessen State Ministry of Higher Education, Research and the Arts.