Publications
Explore an archive of Hafed Al-Ghwell’s publications, ranging from academic papers to opinion pieces and columns. The archive spans Hafed’s contributions to the fields of Middle Eastern and North African studies, particularly in the fields of security, migration, energy, sustainability, and the nuanced dynamics of US and EU foreign policies in relation to the region.
Saied’s strategy to revitalize Tunisia’s beleaguered finances and stimulate economic growth
Tunisia's economy faces significant challenges, with high unemployment, soaring inflation, and substantial external debt. President Kais Saied's proposal to levy a tax on the wealthy elite has stirred both curiosity and criticism. While seen as a populist move by some, others view it as a step towards social justice.
Morocco leads the way in building a sustainable future
Climate change presents significant global challenges, especially for developing countries. Morocco, recognizing its susceptibility to such challenges, is pioneering sustainable development strategies, aiming to generate over half its electricity from renewables by 2030.
Libya: Reasonable calm for now, but at what cost?
Despite recent hints of progress, Libya continues to grapple with deep-rooted internal divisions and external pressures, posing ongoing threats of crisis and violence. While some semblance of calm may be apparent on the surface, insecurity still pervades daily life, with issues such as…
Europe’s strategic negligence in the Mediterranean
The EU's response to irregular migration in the Mediterranean, focused on security rather than humane interventions, has exacerbated the crisis, leading to tragic consequences and rising anti-immigrant sentiments.
The next global scramble for resources will hit close to home for many of us
As advancements in technology and innovation drive progress, the scarcity of skilled workers becomes increasingly apparent. While economic migrants still dominate international migration, projections indicate a growing need for foreign workers…
How Sudan crisis casts long shadow over Libya
The crisis in Sudan could have serious implications for neighboring countries such as Libya, highlighting the interconnectedness of the region's political, economic, and security environments. Interventions in Sudan must consider the potential spillover effects to Libya, including…
Developing world needs a new approach to sustainable development
The prevailing export-driven sustainable development strategy, successful in Asia, has not yielded similar results in other regions like Africa. While infrastructure investments were touted as crucial, they alone have not spurred economic growth.
Gulf nations can play a key role in restoring stability to Sudan
The recent escalation of conflict in Sudan has caught many by surprise, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent further destabilization. As the international community focuses on evacuations, Gulf nations have a crucial role to play in averting a larger crisis.
The sad inevitability of the return to arms in Sudan
In Sudan, recent violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces have sparked fears of civil war. Deep-rooted political turmoil, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic hardships, has fractured the Transitional Sovereign Council.
Tunisia’s decision to snub IMF deal is both reckless and bizarre
President Kais Saied's rejection of IMF-mandated economic reforms, despite Tunisia's dire financial situation, could lead to a cascade of socioeconomic challenges. Saied's refusal to accept IMF assistance jeopardizes Tunisia's ability to manage its fiscal deficit, control inflation…
In Iraq, a resilient Al-Sudani forges on
Amid reflections on the 20th anniversary of the US-led invasion of Iraq, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's government faces a turbulent landscape. While Iraq holds vast potential, it grapples with multifaceted challenges hindering progress, including economic woes, political tensions…
Can the UN’s new plan for Libya overcome the ‘chicken or egg’ paradox?
The recent plan by UN envoy Abdoulaye Bathily to revive Libya's political process amid ongoing turmoil has garnered attention. The proposal aims to organize elections this year through an electoral steering committee comprising diverse Libyan stakeholders.
Arab world needs to get to grips with its water problem
World Water Day, which coincided with a midterm review of the UN’s Water Action Decade, focused on raising awareness of global water scarcity issues and promoting the security and sustainability of freshwater resources.
Discourse on Libya remains fixated on the lethal and the lucrative
The discourse on Libya often overlooks the role of its finance and banking sector in perpetuating dysfunction. Political elites resist reforming the sector, which is plagued by opacity and corruption. The central bank, despite being tasked with ensuring public services and economic integrity…
The Lebanon contagion: Record debt levels are intensifying the region’s challenges
In the past decade, the Arab region has experienced a surge in borrowing, leading to record levels of foreign debt accumulation. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, volatile oil prices, and political instability have exacerbated economic challenges in countries like…
Arab women must be given a voice
While March marks a celebration of women's achievements, the Arab world still struggles with gender disparities and its societies rank low in gender equality indices. Despite constitutional promises, discriminatory laws and cultural norms persist…
Tunisia’s descent into madness continues
Tunisia's journey from the promise of the Arab Spring to its current turmoil highlights the complexities of democratization it faces. As opposition is suppressed and arbitrary arrests are common, President Kais Saied's authoritarian…
Libya’s transition is going nowhere fast – and by design.
The milestone of the civil war in Libya's 12th anniversary is overshadowed by a depressing reality. Despite a halt in episodic violence, division persists, preventing stability and unity. The ruling elite in Libya views disarmament and reconciliation talks cynically because…
Iraqi PM’s delicate balancing act
Iraq's political landscape, shaped by US-Iran rivalry, has seen shifts in influence. Despite expectations of US military expulsion under a pro-Iranian government, Prime Minister Al-Sudani has navigated a delicate balance by resisting Shiite factions' attempts…
Europe’s unforced errors in the Maghreb
The EU's historical engagement with the Maghreb faces challenges due to missteps, lack of unified policy, and shifting global priorities. Issues such as Libya's instability and Algeria-Morocco tensions further highlight the EU's struggle to influence…