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Gulf monarchies may update power structures

Location:

GULF STATES

Succession in Gulf Arab states.

Riyadh’s radical power centralisation risks a backlash

Location:

SAUDI ARABIA

This follows the detentions on November 4 of multiple important royal family members, ministers and former ministers, most notably the powerful head of the National Guard.

Saudi women will struggle to dictate pace of reform

Location:

SAUDI ARABIA

The measures represent a milestone in the ongoing process of easing restrictive rules which make women legally dependent on husbands or male relatives. However, several leading…

Gulf prime ministers’ roles will ensure the status quo

Location:

GULF STATES

Prime ministers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states are part of the ruling families. They often combine the role with that of crown prince or sovereign ministerial…

Investors will be cautious over Saudi judicial reforms

Location:

SAUDI ARABIA

In its efforts to stem such sell-offs and attract new international capital, Riyadh has introduced multiple reforms, including attempts to make the creaky judicial system more…

Next-generation Gulf monarchs will set new rules

Location:

GULF STATES

This brings in different perspectives on issues such as economic diversification, social liberalism, Israel and the role of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Saudi demographics may ultimately drive discontent

Location:

SAUDI ARABIA

This means the leadership must manage a significant social change, catalysed by an engaged and 'globalised' youth segment. At the same time, the economy has to accommodate…

Qatar’s elected Shura Council may invite voter apathy

Location:

QATAR

The Shura Council was first proposed in 2003 but fears that it would prove a combative institution prompted the authorities three times to postpone its introduction. Since it was…

Saudi social reforms will create economic openings

Location:

SAUDI ARABIA

The rapid social changes under way, such as letting women drive and reopening cinemas, largely focus on creating new economic opportunities. They also serve a political purpose…

Yemen peace talks hang on recognition of Huthi power

Location:

YEMEN

The Saudi-led coalition has been fighting to remove Huthi rebels from central government for the past nine months. The core issue driving the conflict is the Huthis' bid to…