International Affairs

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Mastering Timing: A Blueprint for Policy Success

This essay contends that timing, rather than merit, is crucial in statecraft and policy advocacy. Using Iran’s nuclear diplomacy as a case study, it identifies five domains where timing influences outcomes: policy windows, stakeholder engagement, electoral calendars, negotiation tempo, and the perishability of intelligence. Understanding and managing timing can provide a significant advantage in shaping decisions.

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Unlocking Market Access Through Public Affairs Strategy

A proactive public affairs strategy is essential for shaping government policy and securing market access. It is no longer merely reactive but a board-level capability that influences business performance across sectors. Understanding the link between policy and market dynamics enables organizations to anticipate change, build credibility, and foster growth in politically complex environments.

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Strategic Risks of the South China Sea for Global Trade

The South China Sea is a critical area for global trade, with a third of maritime commerce passing through it, creating significant business risks. CEOs must address this persistent geopolitical tension, as disruptions can severely impact supply chains and enterprise value. Organizations should invest in resilience and prepare for potential crises to mitigate these risks effectively.

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LAWS: Analyzing AI-Driven Autonomous Weapons in Modern Warfare

Lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS) are actively deployed in conflicts, presenting significant governance challenges. This article analyzes their technology, legal implications, and international governance efforts. It highlights the need for a binding treaty to ensure ethical accountability and compliance with international humanitarian law to address gaps in existing frameworks and prevent misuse.

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JNIM Transformation: Threat to Global Security in the Sahel

The security architecture of the Sahel is undergoing a fundamental transformation. In 2024, West Africa accounted for more than half of all terrorism-related deaths globally. Central to this destabilization is the rapid expansion of Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). As I recently discussed in an interview with Sky News Arabia, the group is transitioning from

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Mastering Government Consultations: A Strategic Guide

Governments often seek public input on proposed policies through formal consultations, crucial in shaping effective regulations. Success hinges on timely engagement during the formulation stage, adherence to the Gunning Principles for fair participation, and presenting well-structured, evidence-driven submissions. Collaboration and transparency enhance influence, enabling stakeholders to navigate policy processes effectively.

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Geopolitical Shifts in the Wake of the Gulf Conflict

The 2026 war reshaped the Middle East’s security landscape, highlighting the complex dynamics between Israel, Iran, and the Gulf states. While Israel achieved military objectives against Iran’s nuclear capabilities and proxies, the regime adapted rather than collapsed. The conflict’s ramifications rippled globally, affecting economies beyond the region and revealing the limits of military force in engendering political change.

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Influence : The Real Iran-US Conflict Isn’t the One You’re Watching

This article explores the long-standing rivalry between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the crucial competition for narrative control in shaping perceptions among international audiences. It highlights how both nations utilize strategic communications to influence legitimacy, morphing diplomatic discourse and propaganda to sway third-party governments and global public opinion amidst evolving information landscapes.

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Political Intelligence as Organizational Capability: Strategic Implications for Firms in Contested Policy Environments

This article explores political intelligence as a crucial organizational capability that aids firms in navigating regulated environments. Through various case studies, it demonstrates how systematic political analysis fosters strategic advantages by creating lead time for proactive engagement. Institutionalizing political intelligence enhances decision-making and organization-wide preparedness against policy shifts.

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