Fawaz Gerges

Fawaz Gerges is a distinguished Professor of International Relations and the Middle East at the London School of Economics (LSE) and a highly sought-after motivational speaker. With a career spanning decades, his expertise covers the complex political dynamics of the Middle East, Islamist movements, and global security. As a speaker, he captivates audiences with his deep knowledge of the political economy of the Middle East, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and the impact of global policies on regional stability. His ability to simplify intricate geopolitical issues and provide insightful analysis makes him an engaging and compelling presence on stage.

Fawaz began his career with rigorous academic training and extensive field research, interviewing hundreds of civil society leaders, activists, and Islamist figures across the Middle East and Europe. His work in journalism and academia allowed him to establish a unique perspective on the region’s political and economic landscape. Over time, he gained recognition as a leading scholar in the field, publishing extensively on issues ranging from jihadist movements to the historical sociology of the region. His career trajectory was shaped by a commitment to understanding and explaining the underlying factors driving political instability, economic challenges, and social upheaval in the Middle East.

In recent years, Fawaz has continued to make significant contributions to global discourse through his books, media appearances, and academic work. His latest book, What Really Went Wrong: The West and the Failure of Democracy in the Middle East (2024), is a critical analysis of the challenges in establishing democratic governance in the region. His previous works, including ISIS: A History and The Rise and Fall of Al Qaeda (2011), have been widely recognised as essential readings on contemporary Middle Eastern politics. He has also been honoured with prestigious fellowships, including those from MacArthur, Fulbright, and Carnegie, and received the Saïd Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011 for his exceptional contributions to the field.

Fawaz is frequently hired as a motivational speaker because of his ability to translate complex geopolitical issues into accessible insights for policymakers, business leaders, and global audiences. His talks on the politics of the Middle East and its economic implications provide crucial perspectives for decision-makers navigating international markets, energy security, and global risk. With a charismatic speaking style and authoritative knowledge, he equips audiences with a deeper understanding of the region’s ever-evolving landscape, making him an invaluable resource for those seeking to grasp the forces shaping the modern Middle East.