Columnist

Author

Dr. Majid Rafizadeh

Dr. Majid Rafizadeh is a political scientist specializing in U.S. foreign policy and the Middle East and is a Harvard-educated scholar. He can be reached at [email protected] or on X at @Dr_Rafizadeh.

Latest published

AI boom is fundamentally different from dot-com bubble

The bursting of the dot-com bubble in 2000 was a hugely important development. Some commentators and analysts are now attempting to frame the present artificial intelligence boom through that historical lens. Such comparisons, however, are inaccurate.

April 30, 2026

We have the power to ensure Earth has a sustainable future

International Mother Earth Day, established by the UN in 2009 and observed annually on April 22, is a globally recognized moment that should make us think about our relationship with our planet and the natural world. It should also make us reassess the sustainability of our paths.

April 23, 2026

Three digital economy priorities for Middle Eastern states

For the Middle East, the digital economy should be considered a central pillar for long-term economic sustainability, geopolitical influence and global competitiveness.

April 16, 2026

The emerging global space race and the strategic opportunities for the Middle East

The global space race, once dominated by the US and the Soviet Union during the Cold War, has undergone a profound transformation.

April 09, 2026

Climate change and human health in Southern Africa

Climate change should not only be understood as an environmental phenomenon, but also as a critical and systemic threat to human health.

April 02, 2026

MENA region’s rapid energy transition

The Middle East and North Africa region is going through a rapid energy transition and has made significant advances when it comes to renewables.

March 05, 2026