As we enter 2025, the Middle East and North Africa region stands at a major turning point shaped by a complex mix of unique internal dynamics and political economies, shifting geopolitical realities, economic dependencies, significant demographic shifts and persistent external influences.

In recent years, European policy concerning Africa has surged, with no shortage of flamboyant plans from Brussels to engage with the fastest growing continent, a region teeming with promise yet overshadowed by persistent woes.

The migration dynamics between Europe and Africa have evolved into one of the most pressing socioeconomic challenges of the 21st century, fueled by a complex mesh of historical ties, socioeconomic disparities, political instability, conflict and, lately, worsening environmental crises.

The youthful energy that once thrummed through the streets of Tunis, ousting a long-entrenched dictator more than a decade ago, has withered in the face of an unchecked authoritarian resurgence.