The Gulf region is undergoing significant transformation, with shifting domestic, regional, and international dynamics that are reshaping its political, economic and security landscape. The Chatham House Middle East and North Africa Programme launched a three-year project to provide in-depth analysis and policy recommendations on three key areas of engagement in the Gulf.
Iran’s domestic and foreign challenges
Iran is facing internal crises from social unrest, environmental challenges, economic mismanagement and sanctions. This project explores Iran’s internal political and economic shifts, its nuclear ambitions, and its strategic calculations and influence in the region built through its axis of resistance network. Analysis also focuses on Iran’s foreign relations with regional states in the GCC and global powers.
Conflict in Yemen
This project examines the ongoing conflict, the role of local and international actors, and the impact of foreign interventions on Yemen’s stability. Additionally, it explores Yemen’s strategic significance in the region, including its geopolitical position, security concerns, and relationships with neighbouring Gulf states, Iran and global powers.
Women’s empowerment in the GCC
Investment in women’s empowerment across the Gulf states has been an important component of state led diversification agendas. This project assesses the impact of legal and economic reforms on women’s status across Gulf states, highlighting disparities in access and implementation. While reforms have been introduced as part of Vision strategies, progress has been uneven, with factors such as rurality, class, and legal contradictions limiting the benefits for many women. This project aims to help promote a better understand of these shifts.
This project is supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
