Academic Background

MA
University of ExeterMiddle East Studies from the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies

Worth to Know

Ferhat Polat is a Chevening Scholar from the 2022 cohort. Holding an MA in Middle East Studies from the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter, he specializes in North African geopolitics and security, with a particular focus on Libya. Polat is often invited as a commentator on news channels and has contributed numerous essays and articles on geopolitical issues that have been published in various journals, newspapers, and digital outlets.

LibyaHiddenTreasureWeb

Libya’s Hidden Treasure: Gaddafi’s Looted Wealth and Libya’s Financial Future

Gaddafi and his cronies reportedly plundered as much as $200 billion from Libya that was deposited in bank...
Libyaceasefire

Will Libya’s Latest Ceasefire Bring About a Lasting Political Settlement?

The agreement between the UN-recognised government in Tripoli and the Tobruk-based legislature to demilitarise Sirte is an important...
Turkey Malta Increase web

Turkey and Malta Are Increasing Cooperation to Bring Stability to Libya

As the tiny island nation lies in the middle of a popular migration route, Maltese interests lie in...
HowCredibleEULibyaWEB

How Credible Is the EU with Regard to Libya?

Until now the EU has not been able to take a forceful position on Libya or provide meaningful...
RussiaPolicyLibyawb

Russia’s Policy in Libya from 2011 Onwards

This paper examines Russia’s strategy towards Libya post-2011. Russia has arguably been filling the vacuum left by NATO...
Growing number of mercenaries to Sirte

Growing Number of Mercenaries to Sirte Deepens Conflict in Libya

The increasing number of mercenaries, who are mobilizing to support Haftar’s self-declared LNA in Sirte, indicates Haftar’s backers...
FranceLibya

France’s Hypocritical, Ill-conceived Strategy Jeopardizing Libya’s Political Stability

Although its primary goal in helping Haftar is reaping economic benefits and achieving greater political influence, France keeps...
Haftars project in Libya

Is Egypt Trying to Salvage Haftar’s Project in Libya?

The relationship between Egypt and Haftar is not merely shaped by security priorities and arms deliveries, but it...
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Egypt’s Role in Libya

This policy outlook examines Egypt’s role in Libya. Cairo’s various interests in Libya are assessed and used to...
RussianLibyaweb

Russian Meddling in Libya: Covert to Overt

As Russia’s footprint in Libya grows, it risks drawing greater attention from the US. In April 2019, warlord...