This report is based on the presentations and discussions during the UAE Security Forum 2020, “Resilient Economies, Resilient Societies,” held December 15-17, 2020 virtually.
The coronavirus pandemic has come as a reminder of the urgent need for a renewed approach to security that no longer focuses merely on the political and military aspects of security but includes a broader look at people-centered dimensions.
None of Iran’s leadership hopefuls can seize power without IRGC support, and any future leader of the Islamic Republic will be beholden to the IRGC.
As King Salman warns of the difficult fight ahead, the rationale behind the Saudi government’s quarantine measures is being closely scrutinized.
The coronavirus outbreak presents Gulf – and global – leaders with an opportunity to prioritize human security in their foreign policies.
While most Gulf Arab countries have tackled the coronavirus pandemic through state-led initiatives, Kuwait and Bahrain engaged youth significantly through quasi-independent civil society organizations.
Strategic relations with China, domestic political considerations, and religious taboos all prevented an earlier and more effective response by the Iranian government toward the country's coronavirus crisis.
Both China and Gulf states employ propaganda in their campaigns to reassure international public opinion, and each other.
Through its careful examination of the forces shaping the evolution of Gulf societies and the new generation of emerging leaders, AGSIW facilitates a richer understanding of the role the countries in this key geostrategic region can be expected to play in the 21st century.
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