The Middle East is witnessing rapid changes with major repercussions for regional security and stability. Some of these changes originate from within the region, while others are related to broader shifts across the world, such as the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and emerging technologies. In recent years, the region has seen relative improvements in its security and development environment. The decline of civil conflicts after the Arab Spring era, the defeat of ISIS, and the signing of the Abrahamic Peace Agreement have brought new opportunities for regional peace and stability. However, there remain several challenges to achieving sustainable regional security. Fast-paced technological transformations, obstacles to development, and the different approaches of regional and international powers will have considerable impact on the future of security in the Middle East.

Within this context, the conference will address six topics over two days. The first topic, “Redefining Middle East Security in an Era of Transition: A 20-Year Vision”, will address the main threats likely to affect the region over the next two decades. It will cover the links between prospects for collective security governance, state failure, extremist ideologies, regional economic cooperation, and energy and climate change.

The second topic, “Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism in the Middle East and Beyond,” will deal with the persistent threat posed by sub-state groups and transnational ideologies that seek to undermine the current regional and state system. It will also discuss efforts to fight terrorism and extremism in the Middle East, key governance challenges confronting the region, the future of Afghanistan under the Taliban, and existing and potential inter-state cooperation on the issue of combating violent extremism.

The third topic, “The Future of Middle East Security: International Priorities,” will discuss shifting global politics and its impact on regional security dynamics, focusing on US, Chinese, Russian, and European responses.

The fourth, “The GCC Perspective on Building a Sustainable Regional Security Order,” will discuss shifting global politics and its impact on regional security dynamics, focusing on regional and local responses.

The fifth topic, “New Diplomatic Initiatives in the Region: The Quest for Stable Alliances,” will focus on recent regional diplomatic initiatives, including taking stock of the Abraham Accords one year since their signing, as well as the trajectories for peace and security in the ever-evolving geopolitical context of the region.

The sixth topic, “Beyond regional Security: New Perspectives and Future Visions for Human Security,” will examine some emerging themes and trends that may shape future regional security. The intent is to discuss new and original perspectives to further inform policy recommendations for policymakers in the United States and the Gulf states.