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Afkār is a publication of the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, providing short-form analyses, insights, and perspectives on regional issues and developments from the Council's experts and outside contributors. Afkār is published in English and Arabic, and is edited by Omar H. Rahman.
Contact us at afkar@mecouncil.org.

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Central Bank Digital Currencies’ Impact on MENA Economies – Council Views

Experts from the ME Council and its network analyze the potential impacts of central bank digital currencies on MENA economies and the future of money globally.

Nader S. Kabbani, Tarik M. Yousef, Ahmet F. Aysan, Nasser Saidi, June Park, Rabah Arezki
The Importance of Diplomacy: How Qatari Mediation is Impacting Gaza

Throughout the ongoing Gaza war, Qatar has emerged as an outsized power in attempting to reach a peace agreement—and has become a prime target for criticism in the process. 

Khalid Al-Jaber, Ambassador Patrick Theros
Interview: Unpacking Kuwait’s Parliament Dissolution

With Kuwait’s National Assembly now dissolved, can the newly appointed crown prince and cabinet progress on the emir’s reform agenda?

Dania Thafer
Economic Diversification is the GCC’s Top Priority

Saudi Arabia has taken great steps to diversify its economy – Kuwait must follow suit.

Nasser Saidi
Interview: Kuwait’s First Elections under the New Emir

In this interview with Afkār, governance expert Robert P. Beschel Jr. discusses the significance of Kuwait’s April 2024 parliamentary elections.

Robert P. Beschel Jr.
Washington’s Dilemma over Hamas in Qatar

U.S. officials are increasingly critical of Hamas’s political office in Doha, but Washington relies on Qatar’s mediation with the group.

Ali Bakir