Public Opinion Analysis in the Arab World:

This workshop aims to study the crucial role of public opinion in shaping the economic, political, and social transformations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region over the past two decades. As MENA has undergone profound economic, political, and social transformations over the past two decades. Gulf countries have multiplied diversification efforts to reshape their resource-dependent economies by investing in non-oil sectors and renewable energy. The Abraham Accords, which led to the normalization of relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco, transformed regional dynamics and led to significant public backlash. The Arab Spring brought about democratic change and political reform in Tunisia and Egypt, both of which have since experienced increased authoritarianism, and it led to civil war and prolonged violence in Yemen, Syria, and Libya, which continue to struggle in the face of conflict today.

As these transformations unfold, understanding and analyzing public opinion has become increasingly vital, not only as a barometer of societal sentiment but also as a driving force that shapes the direction of these changes. Public opinion is instrumental in determining the trajectory and effectiveness of regional reforms and political transformations. In the MENA region, the success of economic, political, and social changes is often contingent upon how the public perceives these changes. For instance, the Arab Spring demonstrated the power of public sentiment in driving significant political shifts, but it also illustrated how public responses to ongoing events contribute to divergent outcomes ranging from democratic progress to renewed authoritarianism. Similarly, economic diversification efforts and social reforms are deeply influenced by public approval or discontent, which can either bolster or undermine their implementation. By closely monitoring and responding to public opinion, policymakers can better address the needs and expectations of their populations, ensuring that reforms are both effective and broadly supported.

This event is in collaboration with the Gulf International Forum.