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TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2025

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THE SAIS REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS


CALL FOR PAPERS


Forgotten Wars: Beyond the Mainstream


Since 2022, global media has heavily concentrated on two major conflicts—the Russia-Ukraine War and the Israel-Hamas-Hezbollah War. While these wars have significant geopolitical, economic, and humanitarian implications, this narrow focus often obscures other conflicts that continue to shape global security, governance, and regional stability.


Beyond these headline-dominating wars, numerous conflicts persist, displacing millions, exacerbating human rights violations, and fueling cycles of violence with far-reaching consequences. Some of these conflicts involve civil wars, insurgencies, ethnic violence, or transnational interventions, yet they remain underreported in mainstream discourse. The lack of sustained global attention often limits policy responses, humanitarian aid, and conflict resolution efforts.


In this issue,The SAIS Review aims to shed light on these overlooked crises. By elevating underreported conflicts, we seek to cultivate a deeper understanding of their historical roots, political dynamics, and humanitarian consequences while exploring potential paths toward resolution.


Policymakers, professionals, academics, and activists with expertise may submit to sais.review@gmail.com


Abstracts are due March 15, 2025

Manuscripts are due March 29, 2025

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
A view shows a market in Gusau, Zamfara, Nigeria. (Reuters/File)

#FROM THE DIRECTOR'S DESK#


Growth is Key to Closing the ‘Africa Gap’


ARAB NEWS — Africa faces significant challenges despite its vast natural resources and young population. Its economic metrics, such as GDP per capita and purchasing power parity, substantially lag behind global averages. By 2030, over 80% of the world’s poor will be in Africa, underscoring the urgent need for economic reform and inclusive growth. The continent's youth demographic, expected to double by 2070, offers a potential for transformative growth if effectively harnessed. However, reliance on commodity exports and protectionist policies have stunted progress. Modernizing infrastructure, fostering private sector dynamism, and improving governance are critical to closing the economic gap. Regional integration through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area could enhance intra-African trade and economic resilience, while strategic investments in education and skills development are essential for sustaining long-term growth.


Former CSIS intelligence officer Dan Stanton says he was not surprised to learn a Canadian resident was allegedly at the centre of a plot to help China sell weapons to Libya in defiance of international arm embargos.

Ex-UN Official from Montreal Nabbed by FBI for Alleged Role Selling Chinese Weapons to Libya


GLOBAL NEWS — The FBI has charged James Kuang Chi Wan, a former UN agency executive from Montreal, with orchestrating over $1.5 billion in illegal arms sales from China to Libyan militants. Wan allegedly led a network, including six unnamed co-conspirators, in violating international sanctions by negotiating deals for advanced military equipment. These clandestine operations reportedly involved coordination with Chinese diplomats and state-owned enterprises, seeking long-term strategic gains in post-conflict Libya. Despite Wan's arrest and asset seizures, his legal future in the U.S. remains uncertain, highlighting significant international security implications.

Voyage of Damas Wave from December 27, 2024 to January 22, 2025: The vessel disables its AIS between December 27 and January 14, during which time it calls in Crimea. Damas Wave is currently sailing through the Mediterranean signalling LY MRA (Misurata) as its destination.

Crimea Caller Sails for Libya in Russian Power Play


LLOYD'S LIST — A Russian-operated bulk carrier, Damas Wave, is heading to Libya's Misurata port after loading cargo in occupied Crimea's Feodosia, marking the first direct shipment from this region. This maneuver showcases Russia’s strategy to solidify ties with Libya's UN-recognized Government of National Unity amid the shifting regional power dynamics post-Syrian conflict. The move appears to leverage trade for geopolitical influence, potentially positioning Libya as a new strategic point for Russia’s naval assets. Historically, similar vessels rerouted to markets like Egypt following disruptions in Syrian routes.

A tanker transits the Suez Canal. Shutterstock/Anatoly Menzhiliy

Egypt Cautiously Optimistic Suez Canal Traffic Will Revive, Minister Says


BLOOMBERG — Egypt's foreign trade and investment minister expressed cautious optimism about a revival in Suez Canal traffic following a 60% drop in revenue due to conflict-related disruptions. A six-week Gaza ceasefire offers hope, but significant recovery may be slow as shipping firms remain hesitant. The canal's normalization is vital for Egypt's economy, struggling with its worst crisis in decades. The government, aiming to boost foreign direct investment, plans asset sales worth up to $2.5 billion by mid-2025, supported by investor-friendly monetary policies.

Migrants from Niger waiting for deportation in Tripoli, Libya, on Dec. 25.Credit...Mahmud Turkia/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

‘Living Through Hell’: How North Africa Keeps Migrants From Europe


THE NEW YORK TIMES — Libya deported over 600 Nigerien migrants in one of its largest recent expulsions, highlighting North African countries' intensified measures to block sub-Saharan migrants from reaching Europe, funded by the European Union. These efforts reduced illegal border crossings in 2024 but involved severe human rights abuses, including desert abandonments and prison mistreatment. Tunisia and Mauritania have similar EU-funded agreements, leading to significant migrant expulsions. Migrants face dire conditions, violence, and deprivation, raising ethical concerns about the EU's role in this strategy.

President Donald Trump announces the suspension of all US aid to Africa for 90 days. (© Jim Watson/AFP)

Trump’s Aid Suspension: Which African Countries Stand to Lose the Most?


THE AFRICA REPORT — The Trump administration’s 90-day freeze on foreign aid is halting global U.S.-funded programs, with only emergency food and military aid to Israel and Egypt exempted. This suspension is affecting various regions, including Africa, where aid is critical for education and healthcare. Zimbabwe faces severe setbacks in its HIV/AIDS treatment due to cuts to PEPFAR funding, endangering lives. In Liberia, the suspension disrupts programs for school lunches, girls' education, and health systems. Kenya and Uganda, reliant on U.S. aid for combating malnutrition and distributing anti-retroviral drugs, may also face critical challenges without this support.

FILE - Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attends her end-of-year news conference in Rome, Italy, January 9, 2025.

Italy’s Meloni Defends Repatriation of a Libyan Warlord Wanted by the International Criminal Court


AP — Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defended repatriating Libyan warlord Ossama Anjiem, wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing an appeals court order and security concerns. Anjiem, linked to severe human rights abuses, was arrested in Italy but released due to a procedural error. His return to Libya raised criticism from human rights groups and opposition parties. Meloni questioned the ICC's delayed warrant and highlighted Italy's reliance on Libya for controlling migration. The Italian government plans to provide clarifications to the ICC amidst calls for the justice minister's resignation.

Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi speaks on the day of his visit in Copenhagen, Denmark, December 6, 2024. Ritzau Scanpix/Martin Sylvest/via REUTERS/File Photo

Egypt's Sisi Says State Needs $20 Billion Annually to Secure Petroleum Products


REUTERS — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced that Egypt requires $20 billion annually for petroleum imports to meet local market demands. During the 73rd Police Day celebration, he highlighted efforts to resolve the dollar shortage crisis and stressed the importance of ensuring that Egypt's financial resources exceed expenditures. Sisi emphasized that securing dollars is crucial for reducing the import bill and achieving economic stability. He also mentioned that strengthening infrastructure is key to supporting sustainable economic growth amidst increasing global and local market pressures.

Newly confirmed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio pictured 21 January 2025. (REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz)

Rubio’s Criticism of Algeria Buoys Berber Separatists


THE AFRICA REPORT — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's criticism of Algeria has energized the Kabyle independence movement, which seeks to achieve autonomy for Berber-speaking regions. Rubio's stance is significant given his limited focus on Africa during his Senate tenure. The Kabyle separatists see this as an opportunity to gain U.S. support for their aspirations, banking on Rubio's position to advance their political goals. This development teases the geopolitical implications of shifting U.S. foreign policy in North Africa, especially regarding ethnic and regional autonomy movements.

Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh during his meeting with Khuloud Al-Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East, on the sidelines of Davos 2025.

Davos 2025 Exclusive: Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh Reveals Strategic Projects To Strengthen Libyan-Gulf And Global Partnerships


FORBES (MIDDLE EAST) — Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh unveiled strategic projects at Davos 2025 to enhance Libya's global partnerships and economic diversification. Key initiatives include collaboration with Saudi Arabia and Aramco to boost the energy sector, launch direct flights with flynas to strengthen air connectivity, and investments in agriculture, tourism, and technology to diversify the national economy. Emphasizing modernization and sustainable development, Dbeibeh aims to increase oil production to 2 million barrels per day and attract international investment through infrastructure improvement and private sector engagement.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command & Algerian Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defense and Chief of Staff to the National People’s Army, General Saïd Chanegriha

AFRICOM Commander Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Algerian Ministry of National Defense


U.S. EMBASSY (ALGERIA) — U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, Commander of AFRICOM, signed a Military Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding with Algerian officials, including General Saïd Chanegriha, Chief of Staff of the National People’s Army. This agreement reflects the shared commitment of the United States and Algeria to enhance regional and international peace and stability through strategic dialogue. AFRICOM plays a crucial role in countering transnational threats, strengthening security forces, and responding to crises across Africa.

Mission 300 Energy Summit to Gather Africa’s Leaders and Partners to Transform Energy Sector

Mission 300 Energy Summit to Gather Africa’s Leaders and Partners to Transform Energy Sector


WORLD BANK — The Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit gathered African leaders, business executives, and development partners in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to address the continent's electricity access gap. The summit aims to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030 through new technology and innovative financing. Key outcomes include the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration and the first set of National Energy Compacts from 12 countries, detailing specific targets and timelines for energy sector reforms.

This undated photo from the French military shows three Russian mercenaries, right, in Mali. Russia's Wagner Group, a private military company, has played a key role in Ukraine fighting and also deployed personnel to the Middle East and Africa.

TRANSLATED


Russian Militiamen Involved in Killing and Deportation of Civilians in Central African Republic


PANORAMA — Russian mercenaries, known as the Wagner Group, actively participate in the Central African Republic (CAR) by managing significant gold mines with profits likely aiding Russia's war fund. Since arriving in 2018, they have been involved in grave human rights abuses, including killing and deporting civilians. Their control over the Ndassima gold mine, producing up to 62 tons annually, exemplifies their influence. Russia, one of the leading arms supplier to Africa, leverages these assets amid declining French influence in the region, with a presence now spanning 14 African nations, impacting local stability, regional dynamics and global geopolitics.

Ghazi Chaouachi (left) and Hamma Hammami (right) are seen leading a protest organized by the National Campaign Against the July 2022 Referendum, one year after what Kaïs Saïed's opponents call a coup d'état. © Shutterstock/SIPA

TRANSLATED


Tunisia: Mega-trial for a “Conspiracy”


LE POINT — In March, Tunisia will commence a trial against 52 individuals accused of conspiring against state security, including opposition leaders. This follows the January 2022 arrest of Khayam Turki and others after a political meeting. President Kaïs Saïed, who took control in a 2021 coup, has dismantled democratic institutions and wielded judicial power to silence dissent. Among the accused are prominent politicians, intellectuals, and foreign diplomats. Charges carry severe penalties, potentially life imprisonment or death, though the latter is not currently practiced in Tunisia.


SPECIAL FOCUS


THE NORTH AFRICA INITIATIVE


NEW EPISODE


Eye on the Maghreb


The Eye on the Maghreb video interview series, led by Hafed Al-Ghwell, FPI Senior Fellow & Director of NAI, and developed by SAIS students, Sima Beitinjaneh & Jozie Gregg, explores the pressing issues affecting the Maghreb subregion. In this latest episode, Hafed discusses [...]


You can catch this and previous episodes on NAI's YouTube Channel.

WATCH NOW

RADIO FRANCE INTERNATIONALE (RFI) | PODCAST


LISTEN NOW


Released by Italy, "Osama Almasri Najim Plays an Important Role in the Control of Migrants in Libya"


PUBLISHED: JANUARY 23RD, 2025


Arrested in Turin, Italy, under an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, the head of the Libyan judicial police, Osama Almasri Najim, was released three days later and brought back to his country, on board a flight chartered by the government of Rome. Italy claims a procedural error, but the case is causing a scandal. Did Rome want to spare Tripoli?


LEARN MORE

CENTER FOR STRATEGIC & INTERNATIONAL STUDIES (CSIS) | PODCAST


UPCOMING


AFRICOM at 17: Shaping U.S.-Africa Relations


WEBCAST DATE: JANUARY 30TH, 2025


On any given day, there are 2,500-3,000 United States Army personnel in Africa undertaking a variety of engagements with their African counterparts. Establishing in 2007, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) undertakes security exercises, civil affairs initiatives, and key leader engagements, among other activities. It represents a key pillar of U.S. foreign policy, and likely its most visible, making AFRICOM the primary face of U.S. engagement for many African governments. This approach or reality has its advantages and drawbacks.


Join CSIS's Africa Program for its upcoming Into Africa podcast featuring Brigadier General Rose Lopez Keravuori, Director of Intelligence (J2) at U.S. Africa Command. Brigadier General Keravuori will discuss AFRICOM's accomplishments, the challenges it has faced, and its evolving role in U.S.-Africa relations.


LEARN MORE

INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH & STUDIES ON THE MEDITERRANEAN & MIDDLE EAST (IReMMO) | SEMINAR SESSIONS


ONGOING EVENT


Geopolitics of Natural Resources in the Mediterranean and the Middle East


JANUARY 9TH — MARCH 13TH, 2025 | THURSDAYS — 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM


Join IReMMO for an insightful seminar to explore the geopolitical underpinnings of natural resource management that crystallize power games and rivalries in the Mediterranean region and the Middle East. This issue has been central to the political, economic and social upheavals and the political making of identities and states in this region since the mid-20th century. Such seminar sessions will provide an opportunity to explore these different dynamics in greater depth and offer keys to better understand power strategies in light of food, agricultural, energy and water issues.


LEARN MORE

WORLD BANK GROUP | CONFERENCE


UPCOMING EVENT


Annual Central Bank Conference on Development Economics in the Middle East and North Africa


JANUARY 29 — 30, 2025


Join the World Bank Group for the 4th Annual Central Bank Conference on Development Economics in the Middle East and North Africa, themed: “Navigating the Challenges of Uncertainty, Climate Change and Debt", hosted by the Central Bank of Kuwait in Kuwait City. The event will feature research from all over the world as well as keynote addresses by Indermit Gill (World Bank), Ziad Daoud (Bloomberg), Ugo Panizza (Graduate Institute, Geneva), and Lucrezia Reichlin (London Business School).


LEARN MORE

ARAB LAND INITIATIVE | CONFERENCE


FUTURE EVENT


The Third Arab Land Conference


FEBRUARY 18 — 20, 2025 | 4:00 PM (GMT +1)


The Government of Morocco is hosting the Third Arab Land Conference in Rabat on the 18-20 February 2025. The Conference, co-organized by UN-Habitat and the Arab Land Initiative, among others, is an important milestone in advancing good land governance for the achievement of social, economic, environmental and peace dividends in the Arab region.


Join in-person and virtual participants from ministerial and government delegations, land professionals, civil society, NGOs, academia, private sector and international organizations for this highly anticipated event.

LEARN MORE

PERSPECTIVES

Jordanian protesters during a demonstration in Amman (Photo courtesy: AFP/ AP )

MIDDLE EAST COUNCIL ON GLOBAL AFFAIRS


ANALYSIS PAPER


How Effective Are Arab Anticorruption Agencies?

Is the Glass Half Empty or Half Full?


Arab anticorruption agencies, established in response to widespread public dissatisfaction over governance, have shown mixed effectiveness. While anger over corruption ignited the Arab Spring and continues to incite unrest, recent polling indicates a decline in public confidence in governmental efforts to combat corruption. Inspired by successful models in East Asia, many Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) countries established dedicated anticorruption bodies post-2003, supported by the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. Despite notable institutions like Iraq’s Commission on Integrity and Jordan's Integrity and Anticorruption Commission, these agencies face significant challenges, including under-resourcing and operational inefficiencies. While incremental progress has been made, illustrated by some improvement in citizen trust and operational proficiency, these entities are often stymied by complex corruption practices and a lack of systemic support. Coordination issues among multiple anticorruption entities further hinder effectiveness within countries like Iraq. While not a cure-all, these agencies lay a foundational framework for future reformers to strengthen and build upon in the struggle against corruption in the MENA region.





A Russian Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft flies over Moscow during a parade rehearsal in May 2022. (Sefa Karacan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

NATO DEFENSE COLLEGE FOUNDATION


The Syria-Libya Express


The sudden fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria has triggered significant geopolitical shifts extending into North Africa. Hay’ath Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led by Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa, assumed control of Damascus and is now balancing its relations with Turkey and Russia. Responding to instability, Russia is relocating military assets from Syria to Libya, establishing an air bridge between Hmeimim and al-Khadim airbase. These movements underscore Russia's strategic interest in Libya, reinforced by existing support for Gen. Khalifa Haftar and infrastructural upgrades in the region. Libya's fragmented landscape and geopolitical significance offer Russia a gateway to Africa, facilitating hybrid activity and sanction circumvention. Concurrently, Turkey's deeper involvement in Tripolitania hints at evolving regional alliances, possibly reflecting broader negotiations with Moscow.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi shakes hands with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan after a signing ceremony in Ankara, Turkey September 4, 2024. REUTERS/Murad Sezer

ATLANTIC COUNCIL


From Rivalry to Cooperation: The Geopolitical Implications of Egypt-Turkey Rapprochement


The thaw in relations between Turkey and Egypt, driven by mutual economic needs and political interests, centers on stabilizing Libya. Despite normalization beginning in 2019 and further solidified by Erdoğan’s visit to Cairo, major obstacles remain due to Libya’s enduring conflict. Turkey’s military support for the Tripoli government contrasts sharply with Egypt’s backing of General Haftar’s forces in eastern Libya. Trade ambitions, highlighted by a target to raise trade volume to $15 billion and the supply of Bayraktar drones to Egypt, showcase strong transactional motivations. However, Turkey’s deeper military entrenchment in Libya, as seen with the recent MoU offering legal immunity to Turkish personnel and wide operational freedoms, exacerbates tensions. Concurrently, Egypt’s interactions with Libya’s eastern government and escalating military activities threaten the 2020 ceasefire, complicating the diplomatic landscape.

Image Credit:  Twitter/Syrian Transitional Government

ARAB CENTER WASHINGTON DC


Egypt Remains Cool to the New Syrian Government


Egypt's government approaches Syria’s new regime with caution due to the rapid ascent of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist group, fearing potential inspiration for Egypt's opposition, particularly the banned Muslim Brotherhood. The previous alignment Egypt had with Bashar al-Assad highlights Egypt's consistent aversion to Islamist governance. Despite Egypt's historical interest in strengthening Syria ties to counter regional rivals like Turkey, concerns about HTS’s victory encouraging domestic unrest complicate this interest. The imposition of strict entry restrictions on Syrian migrants and arrests of those celebrating Assad’s fall suggest anxiety over imported dissent. While Arab neighbors engage the new Syrian leadership, Egypt prefers indirect diplomacy, focusing on humanitarian aid and advocating for Syria's Arab identity to counter Turkey's influence. Balancing regional leadership aspirations and domestic stability concerns, Egypt remains distanced yet wary of missing future involvement in Syria’s reconstruction.

Sudanese Refugees. Image credit: Shutterstock Suburbanium

ARAB CENTER WASHINGTON DC


Egypt’s Policies and Rhetoric Target Sudanese Refugees


Since the escalation of conflict in Sudan in 2023, over 1.2 million Sudanese refugees have fled to Egypt, seeking safety from the ongoing violence. Egypt has responded by imposing stringent entry and residency policies, compelling many refugees to resort to hazardous irregular migration routes. The suspension of the Four Freedoms Agreement and the introduction of visa requirements have compounded these difficulties, with processing delays and high fees posing significant barriers. While Egypt claims to host around nine million refugees, only a fraction are officially registered, reflecting a gap between policy and reality. Efforts to regularize status face financial and bureaucratic obstacles, with the government’s recent asylum law reinforcing restrictive measures. Amid these challenges, Sudanese community initiatives have emerged as vital support networks, providing essential services and educational opportunities to those fleeing conflict.

Chinese peacekeepers serving with the United Nations in Juba, South Sudan, Oct. 2, 2017. (Eric Kanalstein / U.N. Mission in South Sudan)

U.S. INSTITUTE FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE


China’s Bid for a Bigger Security Role in Africa


China is intensifying its security role in Africa, leveraging the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) to advance its Global Security Initiative (GSI). Following China's recognition of risks from intrastate conflicts affecting economic interests, Xi Jinping pledged increased security collaboration, including training 7,000 military and police personnel and enhancing joint military operations. China's strategic focus aligns with its major investments in Africa, anticipating economic growth and the African Continental Free Trade Area's potential. As Africa’s largest trading partner and creditor, China uses GSI to fortify its security footprint and protect investments, while positioning itself as a global security leader. The expansion includes weapons sales, security equipment, and police training agreements with 40 African nations, positioning China as a formidable security presence challenging U.S. influence globally.

Online Narratives and Manipulations: Tunisian and Regional Panorama

ARAB REFORM INITIATIVE


Online Narratives and Manipulations: Tunisian and Regional Panorama


Following the 2024 presidential elections, Tunisia has witnessed a proliferation of politically charged content on social media, with both pro- and anti-regime narratives flourishing. The digital landscape, dominated by Facebook, is increasingly marred by professionally orchestrated disinformation campaigns, evolving from localized efforts to large-scale operations driven by specialized firms. Notable incidents include the rapid spread of anti-Saied content and the dubious activities of profiles with Egyptian links. Historical patterns, such as the 2019 presidential election manipulation and the July 2021 digital mobilization, underscore the persistent manipulation aimed at influencing public opinion and political outcomes. These activities, coupled with the manipulation tactics spreading to other regional countries, pose significant risks to the integrity of democratic processes both locally and regionally.

Why developing economies need a new playbook. Photo credit: Kelley Lynch/World Bank

WORLD BANK BLOGS


Why Developing Economies Need A New Playbook


As the first quarter of the 21st century concludes, developing economies face significant setbacks in achieving long-term growth targets. Despite initial progress, with nearly half of the global GDP now stemming from these economies, recent challenges like weak investment, productivity, rising debt, trade and geopolitical tensions, and climate change have stifled progress. Only six out of 26 low-income countries are projected to reach middle-income status by 2050, while extreme poverty will still affect 622 million people by 2030. Growth rates have declined progressively from 5.9% in the 2000s to 3.5% in the 2020s. With new trade restrictions and faltering economic integration, developing nations must reform to attract investment, modernize infrastructure, and enhance human capital. These actions, crucial for boosting resilience and seizing growth opportunities, should begin promptly amidst a stable global economy.

Egyptian countryside near the Nile irrigation canal. Photo credit: Shutterstock/Aleksandr Todorovic

WORLD BANK BLOGS


In MENA, Make Every Drop of Water Count


The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) face critical water scarcity, with an average annual availability of 480 cubic meters per person, far below the global average and international scarcity threshold. Growing population, economic expansion, and climate change exacerbate this issue. Innovations in digital technologies, desalination, and treated wastewater reuse are vital for enhancing water management. Desalination capacities in MENA constitute over 53% of the global total, although costs need lowering to relieve poor regions. Efficient water use, better data for climate adaptation, and job-creating sectors like water-efficient agriculture are essential. Comprehensive reform and sustainable pricing, along with cross-border cooperation and strategic partnerships, are crucial to tackling water challenges and ensuring resource sustainability.

PROJECTS, REPORTS & PUBLICATIONS


IN CASE YOU MISSED IT


THE NORTH AFRICA INITIATIVE | SPECIAL EDITION NEWSLETTER



Maghreb Weekly Special Country Focus Edition: ALGERIA


Maghreb Weekly Special Country Focus Editions by the North Africa Initiative (NAI), are periodic publications that aim to give an overview on the political economies, and internal dynamics of Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia, distilling information from key reports of institutions such as the World Bank, the IMF and the UN.


In this edition, authored by Sima Beitinjaneh, MIPP Candidate at JHU-SAIS, we focus on Algeria, a country whose geopolitical significance as both a global and regional player has reached a critical juncture as its economy continues to expand and develop. The country’s wealth of natural resources and geographic vicinity to Europe continues to define its global importance.





SETA FOUNDATION | INSIGHT TURKEY | COMMENTARY



Strange Bedfellows: Why France’s Emmanuel Macron and His Autocratic Friends Are Attempting to Impose Another Strongman in the MENA Region


In this Fall 2020 analysis that remains pertinent to date, France's Emmanuel Macron has aligned with autocratic regimes in the MENA region, notably supporting Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar in combating "Islamic terrorism" linked to "political Islam." This strategic alignment places France alongside allies like Egypt while opposing Turkey and the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA). Haftar's military actions have so far led to significant humanitarian crises and economic collapse in Libya, with civilian casualties, massive displacements, and infrastructure devastation. France's association with autocratic regimes raises questions about the balance between security interests and human rights in its foreign policy.



WORLD BANK GROUP | REPORT



Global Economic Prospects (January 2025)


As the first quarter of the century winds to a close, it's clear that the lofty development goals of the past few decades will not be met, according to the World Bank Group's Chief Economist and Senior Vice President, Indermit Gill. Developing economies now face fierce headwinds: weak investment and productivity growth, aging populations in many of the poorest countries, rising geopolitical tensions and the mounting dangers of climate change. The next 25 years will be a tougher slog than the last 25. A fresh game plan is needed, one that strengthens capacities while seizing growth opportunities wherever they can be found.

RECRUITMENT & TENDERS


GIZ | Regional Advisor


GIZ is seeking a Programme Manager/Regional Advisor for the Programme Management Unit for Team Europe's Technical Assistance Facility to support the AfCFTA and regional economic integration in Africa. The successful applicant will be based in Accra at the AfCFTA Secretariat, working jointly with GIZ's partners from Expertise France and FIIAPP to provide advise and tailored technical assistance to all partners involved in regional integration in Africa.


APPLY BY: JANUARY 28, 2025



AfDB | Principal Country Economist


The African Development Bank is seeking a Principal Country Economist who is fluent in Arabic to be based in Cairo, Egypt. The role involves analyzing economic and financial situations, preparing strategic documents, and engaging in policy dialogue. The position reports to the ECCE1 Division Manager and the Country Manager for Egypt.


APPLY BY: FEBRUARY 08, 2025



ICRC | Legal Adviser


The International Committee of the Red Cross in Cairo, Egypt is hiring a Legal Adviser with 1-3 years of experience. The role involves advising on international humanitarian law, conducting legal research, and supporting IHL dissemination. A law degree, fluency in English and Arabic, and legal drafting experience are required.



#TENDER#


OECD | Egypt In-Country Experts (Non-Staff Consultants)


The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is launching a Call for Tenders to source three individuals, non-staff consultants, based in Egypt to work and contribute to the project: “Promoting Citizen-centred Governance in Egypt”. This call for tenders is divided into 3 lots: Senior Justice Expert; Senior Regulatory Policy Expert, and; Youth Empowerment Expert. Interested candidates should register here in order to access the associated documents and further information.


APPLY BEFORE: FEBRUARY 19, 2025


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Muhammad Umar Zafar, SAIS MAIR Student & NAI Research Assistant, contributed to this newsletter.

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The Maghreb Weekly is produced by the North Africa Initiative of the Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) Foreign Policy Institute with a focus on developments that impact the region's dynamics. This weekly digest includes an overview of the latest published research, studies and reports from think tanks and policy centers, covering long-term perspectives and analyses of North Africa's challenges and opportunities. 

Any views expressed in the articles above, as well as any errors, are solely those of the authors.