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This paper considers some of the promises and challenges in doing comparative education in the Mediterranean region. The focus on the Mediterranean is, in many ways, a wager, in that the region is rather more notable for its diversity than for its commonalities. Nevertheless, it is argued that comparative education goes -- or should go -- beyond the positivist concern with comparing 'like with like'. Rather, it is more about finding a standpoint from where educational and related social phenomena can be seen from a different perspective, generating a deeper understanding of dynamics, as well as fresh insights. It is argued that the adoption of a Mediterranean lens facilitates this process, though there are distinctive challenges that arise. Building on 15 years experience in carrying out and co-ordinating comparative education projects in the region, the paper outlines both the promise and pitfalls of the endeavour, and traces an agenda for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the Mediterranean Education Project (MEP). Importance of having a project on education in the Mediterranean Region; Features of the region; Description of the conditions in the region's educational system; Features of the project.