ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the conceptual fundamentals of wasta, through understanding its various definitions, as well as the causes behind its emergence from various perspectives. It provides a brief analysis on wasta's main areas in the Human resource management (HRM) practices, and its different consequences in different levels. A basic definition of wasta through the angle of its impact models is as a tool that assists in achieving and attaining what is assumed to be otherwise unattainable by individuals in all aspects of personal and professional life. Wasta has largely evolved from a fringe and clandestine practice into a substantial cornerstone of Middle Eastern (ME) societies during recent years. Wasta is primarily maintained due to weak institutional structures and institutional voids. The state of research on HRM in the ME indicates that there are still limited publications and scientific papers regarding HRM in the Arab ME countries.
