The COVID-19 Pandemic in the Middle East and North Africa

This book critically reflects on the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) by exploring the impact and possible future outcomes in a region already struggling with the effects of a decade of uprisings, failed or difficult political transitions, state collapses, civil war and international conflict. International scholars offer a comprehensive treatment of today's major societal issues and provide a unique, broadly comparative view on public policy responses in the MENA region. Addressing the implications and public policy responses to the crisis, they bring a critical perspective to the emerging challenges of evidence-based policy making; the locus of authority in transnational issues; the nature of governance; and the role of government and implications for civil society. Tackling the psychology, sociology, education, law, and public policy issues related to the social and economic implications of the COVID 19 pandemic, this book will be of interest to scholars and students alike.

Dr Anis Ben Brik is an associate professor and founding director of the Program for Social Policy Evaluation and Research (PROSPER) at the College of Public Policy, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU).Before joining HBKU, Dr Ben Brik served as director of the Family Policy Department at the Doha International Family Institute. He previously served as a senior policy advisor and consultant to many government ministries and organizations in the Middle East and North Africa region.

1.Introduction: Facing the Wave: A Journey in the Shadow of the Pandemic  2.Social Protection Responses in the Arabian Gulf Region  3.Small GCC States' Responses to COVID-19: The United Arab Emirates and Qatar  4.Jordan and Tunisia Lose their Luster: An Institutional and Policy Journey against COVID-19  5.Resilient Authoritarianism and Global Pandemics: Egypt after COVID-19  6.Iran's Bottom-up Efforts and Challenges Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic  7.COVID-19 and Freedom of Expression in the MENA Region  8.Policy Responses to COVID-19 Pandemic in the Maghreb Region  9.COVID-19 Policy Tracker: MENA Government Responses to the Crisis  10.Conclusion: The Long Shadow of Pandemic in the MENA Region: Legacy and Hope