The International Institute for Geopolitical Studies

Geopolitical analyst, entrepreneur, and strategic advisor, Khaled Hamadé has devoted his career to analyzing the major geopolitical, economic, and societal transformations shaping the contemporary world. His international experience, enriched by an in-depth knowledge of the dynamics of the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Mediterranean region, enables him to support institutions, companies, and decision-makers in understanding new global balances and the challenges of strategic resilience. Founder and President of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), he promotes a vision based on dialogue, international cooperation, and the anticipation of global transformations. Under his leadership, the IIEG has established itself as an independent platform for reflection, analysis, and proposals, bringing together experts, researchers, public decision-makers, and economic actors around the major challenges of the 21st century. Through his work, Khaled Hamadé has notably developed the concept of the “Arch of Resilience,” a strategic approach highlighting the capacity of territories and nations to strengthen their stability, sovereignty, and ability to adapt in the face of contemporary crises. His reflections focus on issues of governance, diplomacy, security, ecological transition, the management of strategic resources, and regional cooperation. Recognized for his ability to build bridges between the academic, institutional, and economic worlds, he leads numerous strategic dialogues and international initiatives aimed at fostering mutual understanding, crisis prevention, and the development of sustainable solutions. As President of the IIEG, Khaled Hamadé works to develop a geopolitics of cooperation, based on knowledge, innovation, and bringing peoples closer together, in order to contribute to a more stable, more resilient, and more united world.

Professor Jacques Touchon is an eminent figure in the field of neurology, recognized for his major contributions to research on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. He holds a doctorate in medicine obtained in 1979 from the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier and specialized in neurology in 1992. He held the position of Professor of Neurology at the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier from 1990 and served as its Dean from 2000 to 2010. Concurrently, he headed the Neurology Department at the Montpellier University Hospital from 2004 to 2014. Professor Touchon also founded and chaired the National Reference Center for Young Alzheimer's Patients (CNRMAJ). He is co-founder and co-chair of the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD) conference and editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease (JPAD). His exceptional contributions to medical research have been recognized with several distinctions, including the Academic Palms in 1999, the Pinel Prize in 2000, and the Legion of Honor in 2007. As President of the IIEG Scientific Council, Professor Touchon brings high-level scientific expertise, strengthening the academic foundations and methodological rigor of the Institute’s work.

Nouzha Bouchareb is a recognized expert in territorial planning, urban development, housing, and sustainable development. Former Minister of National Territorial Planning, Urban Development, Housing and City Policy of the Kingdom of Morocco, she has extensive experience in the design and implementation of public policies and strategic projects related to sustainable territorial development. Currently Vice-President of the Fondation Maison Méditerranéenne du Climat, she is actively engaged in issues related to climate change, territorial resilience, and sustainable development, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Holding a PhD in Applied Sciences from the Mohammadia School of Engineers and an MBA from ESCAE, she combines scientific and technical expertise, knowledge of public policy, and strategic vision. As **Vice-President of the Scientific Council of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**, Nouzha Bouchareb contributes to the scientific direction and quality of the Institute’s work. Her expertise notably enriches reflections on the interactions between **climate change, strategic resources, territorial resilience, sustainable development, and geopolitical issues**. Her institutional experience and involvement in Mediterranean and international networks also contribute to the development of the IIEG’s scientific cooperation and to strengthening its visibility among academic, institutional, and international stakeholders.

His Excellency Sheikh Ibrahim Hanna-El-Daher is a prominent Lebanese figure whose career combines governmental responsibilities, leadership of major business groups, and institutional and humanitarian engagement, particularly in strengthening relations between France and Lebanon. Originally from Bsharri, Lebanon, he comes from a family with a long-standing involvement in the country's political and institutional life. His academic background includes an engineering degree from the École Supérieure d'Ingénieurs de Beyrouth (ESIB) at Saint Joseph University, studies at the École Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées in Paris, and training in political science, economics and finance at Sciences Po Paris. He also holds a Master's degree in Law from Paris II University and a postgraduate diploma (DESS) in Business Law from Paris V University. His professional career began in 1973 with the UFFI Group, where he became Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 1990. Until 2008, he also headed several subsidiaries of the Vendôme Rome Group, a major provider of real estate services to businesses and individuals, employing more than 2,000 people and generating annual revenues exceeding €150 million. His career also includes chairmanship of a Franco-European business group, executive responsibilities in real estate services, and participation in banking governance. In the political sphere, he served as Lebanon's Minister of State for Administrative Reform from 2004 to 2005, bringing his expertise in governance and management to public institutions. Deeply committed to intercultural dialogue and the strengthening of Franco-Lebanese relations, he has chaired the Board of Directors of the Fondation du Foyer Franco-Libanais in Paris since 1992. Through this historic institution, he has contributed to developing relations between France and Lebanon, particularly by facilitating institutional and humanitarian support during periods of crisis. His commitment also extends to social, educational and cultural initiatives. As President of the Émile Hanna-El-Daher Cultural Foundation, he promotes access to education and social solidarity, notably through school and university scholarship programs supporting young people from his region of origin. As a Member of the Scientific Council of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), H.E. Sheikh Ibrahim Hanna-El-Daher brings his extensive experience in public affairs, governance and international relations to the Institute's strategic discussions. His distinguished career contributes to enriching the Institute's analyses of political and institutional dynamics, international cooperation challenges, and dialogue between the Mediterranean and European regions.

Abdoulaye Sène is Director of the Conflict Prevention and Resolution (PRC) Department at the International Institute of Geopolitical Studies (IIEG). A civil engineer specializing in hydraulics, he has over forty years of experience in water resources management, sanitation, territorial development, and water governance, from the local level to major international institutions. His career is distinguished by a close integration of technical expertise, public governance, international cooperation, and water diplomacy. He currently serves as Chair of the Global Water Partnership West Africa (GWP-WA) and contributes internationally to discussions and strategies focused on water security, climate resilience, and cooperation over water resources. Abdoulaye Sène notably served as Co-Chair and Executive Secretary of the 9th World Water Forum, held in Dakar in 2022, where he coordinated its preparation and organization. He also contributed to the development of the “Dakar Blue Deal on Water Security for Peace and Development,” placing water-related challenges at the heart of peace, stability, and development issues. His experience also encompasses senior institutional and political responsibilities in Senegal. He has served as Director of Hydraulics and Rural Engineering, Technical Adviser to the Minister of Mines, Energy and Water, President of the Fatick Regional Council, Member of the Senegalese National Assembly, and Chair of the Committee on Development and Territorial Planning. He also chaired the Board of Directors of SOGEM, the energy management company of the Senegal River Basin Development Organization (OMVS). Throughout his career, he has developed specialized expertise in integrated water resources management, transboundary cooperation, hydro-diplomacy, climate resilience, the water-energy-food nexus, infrastructure financing, and public-private partnerships. A civil engineering graduate of the École Polytechnique de Thiès, where he graduated at the top of its inaugural class, Abdoulaye Sène also holds a Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering from the École Polytechnique de Montréal. He further enhanced his qualifications through advanced training in water resources planning, management and conservation, sanitation, and large-scale project management. As a lecturer, trainer, and international speaker, he contributes to knowledge sharing in hydraulics, water management, climate change, and sustainable development. His work focuses particularly on water security, infrastructure resilience, territorial development, and sustainable natural resources management. An Officer of the National Order of the Lion of Senegal, Abdoulaye Sène has received several distinctions recognizing his professional achievements and commitment to water management and sustainable development. As Director of the IIEG's Conflict Prevention and Resolution Department, his expertise contributes to developing an approach to crisis prevention that recognizes the interconnected challenges of natural resources, water security, climate change, transboundary cooperation, development, and territorial stability.

Dr. Cheick Sako is a renowned Guinean lawyer and politician, recognized for his commitment to the rule of law and an independent judiciary in Africa. Currently Vice-President in charge of Africa within the Strategic Committee of the Institut Prospective et Sécurité en Europe (IPSE), he continues to play a key role in strategic thinking on the continent. Born in 1953 in Katy, Mali, to a Guinean father and a Malian mother, Cheick Sako grew up in Guinea, where he witnessed the political upheavals of the time. Fleeing the dictatorship of Sékou Touré, he went into exile in France in the 1970s. There, he pursued legal studies at the University of Montpellier, obtaining a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and a postgraduate degree (DEA) in international law. He became a lawyer at the Montpellier Bar in 1991, where he practiced for more than 25 years while also teaching at the university’s Faculty of Law. He was also a member of the Montpellier Bar Council from 1998 to 2000. In France, Cheick Sako became involved in the defense of human rights, notably through the association Juristes sans frontières, which he chaired in Montpellier, defending the values of secularism and fraternity. In 2014, he was appointed Minister of State, Keeper of the Seals, Minister of Justice of the Republic of Guinea, under the presidency of Alpha Condé. During his tenure, he initiated major reforms, such as the establishment of the Superior Council of the Judiciary, the abolition of the death penalty, and the revision of the Civil Code.

Dr. Jean Daniel Ovaga is a Congolese physician, entrepreneur, and business leader dedicated for nearly three decades to health sector development and private sector leadership. A medical graduate of Marien Ngouabi University in Brazzaville, he is founder and CEO of Securex Medical Clinic Group, operating across Congo, with international medical partnerships in Morocco, France, and Turkey. He currently serves as Board Chair and Executive President of the National Union of Economic Operators of Congo (UNOC), Vice-President of the National Order of Physicians of Congo, and President of the Private Health Sector Alliance (ASPS). He is also a former Member of Parliament in Congo's National Assembly serving on the Health, Population, and Social Affairs Committee.

Jean-Marie HEYDT, Ph.D., is an Honorary Professor of Social Sciences and an Associate Researcher with academic institutions in Morocco and France. Holding a Ph.D. in Human and Political Sciences, specializing in comparative education, as well as a degree in European Studies, he works as an international expert and senior consultant for public and international institutions. His expertise notably covers the analysis of political and societal developments, migration, public policies, team management, and crisis management. He notably served as President of the Conference of INGOs of the Council of Europe as well as President of the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe in Lisbon. Author and contributor to numerous publications, his work focuses particularly on migration, societal transformations, Morocco-Europe relations, and contemporary political issues.

Professor Najib Zerouali Ouariti is a leading figure in Morocco’s academic, scientific, and institutional spheres. A renowned surgeon, academic, former minister, and diplomat, he has devoted his career to the development of higher education, scientific research, and public policies serving human progress. A Full Professor of Surgery and former Head of the Surgical Emergency and Burns Department at Avicenne University Hospital in Casablanca, he also served as Vice-Dean and subsequently Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of Casablanca, where he is now Honorary Dean. His academic career has been marked by a constant commitment to academic excellence, medical education, and the advancement of scientific research. His expertise led him to hold senior government positions as Minister of Higher Education, Executive Training and Scientific Research, and later as Minister in charge of the Modernization of Public Sectors. He also represented the Kingdom of Morocco as Ambassador to Tunisia, contributing to strengthening dialogue and cooperation between States. A recognized contributor to international scientific cooperation, Professor Najib Zerouali Ouariti has held numerous positions within regional and international organizations. He notably served as Founding President of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Bioethics Committee, President of the General Conference of ISESCO, President of the General Conference of ALECSO, and President of the Maghreb Conference of Deans and Directors of Faculties of Medicine. Recipient of several national and international distinctions, including the Order of the Throne of the Kingdom of Morocco and the French Ordre des Palmes Académiques, he is recognized for his contribution to the advancement of research, higher education, and scientific cooperation across the Mediterranean, African, and international spheres.

Salman is a Lebanese-American architect, entrepreneur, and cross-cultural practitioner whose professional career has spanned North America, the Middle East, and Africa. He is the Founder and Managing Director of Atlanta Interior Design & Trading (AIDC), a multidisciplinary architecture, interior design, and design-build firm headquartered in Doha, Qatar, with projects and partnerships extending across the Gulf region, Africa, Europe, and the United States. Born in Africa and raised in Beirut, Lebanon, during the early years of the Lebanese civil war, Wassim's formative experiences fostered a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, coexistence, and the profound influence that social and political realities have on communities and the built environment. These experiences continue to inform his professional philosophy and his interest in the relationship between identity, development, and place-making. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette) in the United States. The experience of studying and living far from home during a formative period of his life exposed him to diverse perspectives and reinforced his belief that meaningful differences between societies often stem less from values than from misunderstanding and limited exposure to one another. Wassim spent a significant portion of his professional career living and practicing in Atlanta, Georgia, where he continues to maintain a residence. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, he has worked extensively across multicultural environments and developed a broad international perspective shaped by both Western and Middle Eastern experiences. Over the course of more than four decades in design, development, and entrepreneurship, Wassim has led projects across hospitality, education, healthcare, commercial, residential, mixed-use, and institutional sectors. His work has been recognized through professional design awards in both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, reflecting a commitment to design excellence, innovation, and contextual sensitivity. Beyond professional practice, Wassim views architecture as both a cultural and strategic discipline. He believes that the built environment serves as a powerful reflection of societal values and a meaningful platform for dialogue between traditions, communities, and cultures. Through his work, he advocates for responsible development, cultural understanding, and the use of design as a bridge between diverse perspectives and shared human aspirations. His continuing interests include cross-cultural engagement, urban development, entrepreneurship, education, and the role of design in promoting social cohesion and international dialogue.

Achille Agbé is a member of the Scientific Council of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG). A financial entrepreneur, capital markets expert and specialist in banking and financial law, he works at the intersection of finance, technological innovation, regulation and economic development. Originally from Côte d’Ivoire and active across Europe, Canada, Asia, Africa and major international financial hubs, he has more than eighteen years of experience in financial structuring, fundraising and market engineering. He advises investment banks, funds and high-growth companies on complex transactions, including initial public offerings (IPOs), structured finance, private equity and over-the-counter (OTC) markets. His expertise also covers compliance, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT), as well as market infrastructures. Founder of EIC Corporation, an organization established in 2008 and now present in more than 50 countries, Achille Agbé has developed an inclusive finance model based on investment clubs, financial education and economic diplomacy. The organization brings together several thousand members and aims to broaden access to investment mechanisms, particularly for underserved populations and small and medium-sized enterprises. He also leads iCapital Ventures, a Canadian decentralized, non-custodial private investment structure specializing in asset tokenization, financial structuring and supporting companies in their capital-raising activities through innovative fintech solutions. His career also includes institutional experience in Côte d’Ivoire, notably as a technical advisor to the Minister responsible for Trade, Industry and Entrepreneurship, where he focused particularly on business financing issues. He has also held strategic positions within consulting firms, financial institutions and international organizations, strengthening his expertise in financial analysis, transaction structuring and economic development. Achille Agbé holds a degree in Business Law, an MBA from EDHEC and an MBA specializing in International Finance from INSEEC Paris. His academic work focuses notably on the use of crypto-assets in corporate financing and, more broadly, on the transformations driven by digital finance. As Associate Director of SRBS Business School, he also teaches and lectures at several higher education institutions on corporate finance, fintech regulation and financial markets. He is the author of several books on the transformation of finance, including ICO/STO: The New Economics of Corporate Finance (2019) and Manifesto of Liorism: Towards an Ethical, Sovereign Financial Revolution in the Era of Circular Finance (2026). His work explores the convergence of traditional finance, blockchain technologies and tokenized finance. His research and professional activities focus particularly on the convergence of technological innovation, financial regulation and economic inclusion. He advocates an approach to decentralized finance that combines innovation, regulatory requirements and inclusive economic development. Within the IIEG Scientific Council, his expertise contributes in particular to the Institute’s work on the transformation of financial systems, fintech, new financing mechanisms, economic sovereignty and the challenges of financial inclusion. Through his entrepreneurial, academic and institutional activities, Achille Agbé develops a systemic approach to contemporary financial transformations, combining financial engineering, legal structuring, digital technologies and economic and social impact.

Yann Fortunato is a committed and visionary executive, recognized for his involvement in sustainable forest management, social governance, and territorial innovation. Founder and Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Racines de France, a company specializing in investment in and management of forest estates, he actively contributes to reforestation, ecosystem preservation, and the sustainable management of forest resources in France. In parallel, he serves as President of the Montpellier Labour Court (Conseil de prud’hommes) and as a member of the Regional Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESER) of Occitanie, where he contributes to discussions on the economic, social, and environmental challenges facing local and regional territories. Yann Fortunato is also an active speaker, sharing his expertise on ecological transition, the sustainable management of natural resources, and the strategic role of forests in addressing climate change. As **Vice-President in charge of Europe at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**, Yann Fortunato contributes to the development and international visibility of the Institute across Europe. He supports the strengthening of relations with European institutional, economic, and academic stakeholders and contributes to the IIEG’s work on major issues related to ecological transition, sovereignty, territorial resilience, and Europe’s economic and geopolitical transformations. His career, at the intersection of entrepreneurship, social governance, and environmental transition, brings to the Institute expertise firmly rooted in European economic and territorial realities.

An international entrepreneur, organizational transformation strategist, and expert in economic relations between Europe and India, Sanjeev Rao has more than thirty years of experience at the intersection of business, investment, and international cooperation. A graduate in telecommunications engineering and holder of an MBA from INSEAD, he has held senior positions within major international groups before supporting numerous companies in their development, innovation, and international expansion strategies. His career has led him to work with multinational companies, investors, and institutions on projects with a strong strategic and intercultural dimension. Founder of G2i-Ventures, he has worked for nearly two decades to strengthen economic, technological, and human relations between Europe and India. His expertise notably covers strategic transformation, cross-border investments, the development of international partnerships, and supporting executives through contemporary economic and societal transformations. A speaker and lecturer at leading schools and universities in Europe and India, he is also interested in issues related to leadership, social innovation, education, and talent development. His approach combines strategic vision, intercultural intelligence, and a commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. As Vice-President in charge of India within the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Sanjeev Rao contributes to the development of academic, economic, and institutional partnerships between India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. He supports the Institute’s work on the major geopolitical, economic, and societal dynamics shaping the balances of tomorrow’s world.

A graduate of the Grenoble Institute of Applied Mathematics and the École Supérieure de Commerce de Paris (ESCP), Amine Benchekri is an executive and strategic advisor with more than 35 years of experience in business development, management consulting, organizational transformation, and investment structuring. He began his career in Paris as a consultant specializing in financial reporting and consolidation systems before joining Price Waterhouse in 1992, where he contributed to the development of consulting activities in Africa. This experience enabled him to acquire an in-depth understanding of governance, performance, and organizational development issues in complex international environments. In 1995, he founded Archos-Conseil in Casablanca, a consulting firm specializing in management and information systems. Under his leadership, the company experienced significant growth and attracted leading investors, resulting in the opening of its capital to a French engineering group listed on the Paris Stock Exchange and subsequently to a major Moroccan private group. In 2005, he joined Danone Morocco as Vice-President in charge of Supply Chain and Information Systems. There, he led several strategic transformation projects and contributed to the optimization of the group’s industrial, logistics, and technological operations. From 2015 to 2024, he was appointed by an investment fund to serve as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of a group operating in the logistics, press distribution, educational publishing, and e-education platform sectors. In this capacity, he led a major restructuring, modernization, and strategic development program. In 2024, he co-founded Devlopia & Partners, a consulting firm dedicated to supporting companies in their growth projects, financing structuring, strategic development, and the facilitation of high-value-added partnerships. Within the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Amine Benchekri is **Executive Director of the Global South Division**. In this capacity, he leads research and initiatives dedicated to the profound geopolitical and economic transformations redefining the place of Global South countries within international balances. His work focuses particularly on **new South-South cooperation dynamics, sovereignty and development issues, transformations in global value chains, investments, international economic relations, and the emergence of new centers of power in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America**. He also contributes to the development of partnerships between academic, institutional, and economic actors in order to foster dialogue and cooperation between the different regions of the Global South. His expertise in governance, organizational transformation, investment, and economic development brings to the Global South Division an approach to major international transformations that is both strategic and operational. Convinced that contemporary challenges require a cross-disciplinary approach combining expertise, innovation, and cooperation, he works to strengthen synergies between the academic, institutional, and economic worlds in order to promote strategic thinking in support of sustainable development, stability, and territorial resilience.

An international entrepreneur, organizational transformation strategist, and expert in economic relations between Europe and India, Sanjeev Rao has more than thirty years of experience at the intersection of business, investment, and international cooperation. A graduate in telecommunications engineering and holder of an MBA from INSEAD, he has held senior positions within major international groups before supporting numerous companies in their development, innovation, and international expansion strategies. His career has led him to work with multinational companies, investors, and institutions on projects with a strong strategic and intercultural dimension. Founder of G2i-Ventures, he has worked for nearly two decades to strengthen economic, technological, and human relations between Europe and India. His expertise notably covers strategic transformation, cross-border investments, the development of international partnerships, and supporting executives through contemporary economic and societal transformations. A speaker and lecturer at leading schools and universities in Europe and India, he is also interested in issues related to leadership, social innovation, education, and talent development. His approach combines strategic vision, intercultural intelligence, and a commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. As Vice-President in charge of India within the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Sanjeev Rao contributes to the development of academic, economic, and institutional partnerships between India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. He supports the Institute’s work on the major geopolitical, economic, and societal dynamics shaping the balances of tomorrow’s world.

Joseph Maroun is a prominent figure committed to intercultural dialogue, Francophonie, and international cooperation for more than forty years. An independent consultant, publisher, publication director, and recognized figure in the cultural and institutional life of the Pacific, he has worked for several decades to bring peoples closer together and to develop exchanges between Europe, the Middle East, and the Oceania-Pacific region. Originally from Lebanon and based in French Polynesia since 1982, he holds Lebanese, French, and Brazilian citizenship. A graduate in economics and commercial management in Montpellier, he has held positions of responsibility in marketing, business development, institutional communication, and strategic consulting, in both the private and public sectors. For more than fifteen years, he has served as Honorary Consul of Lebanon in French Polynesia and chairs the Diplomatic Corps of French Polynesia. His work is marked by a constant commitment to intercultural dialogue, citizen diplomacy, Francophonie, and international solidarity. Founder of the association “Les Amis du Liban-Tahiti,” the Club Polynésien de la Francophonie, as well as the cultural magazines “Arz Lebnaan” and “FrancOcéanie,” Joseph Maroun has initiated numerous cultural, educational, and humanitarian cooperation initiatives. Through exhibitions, publications, artistic events, educational programs, and solidarity initiatives, he actively contributes to promoting cultural diversity, dialogue between civilizations, and the values of peace and fraternity. A poet, writer, and advocate of Francophonie, he is the author of several literary collections and has devoted a significant part of his commitment to promoting the French language and enhancing the visibility of Pacific cultures. His work has notably enabled the development of major educational and cultural projects benefiting thousands of young people in French Polynesia. Honored on several occasions for his associative, cultural, and humanitarian commitment, Joseph Maroun is notably a Knight of the Order of Academic Palms and a Knight of the Order of La Pléiade and Francophonie. As Vice-President in charge of Oceania and the Pacific at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), he contributes to the development of the Institute’s institutional relations in the Indo-Pacific region and supports work dedicated to the geopolitical, cultural, environmental, and strategic issues shaping the future of this major region of the 21st century. His diplomatic experience, his in-depth knowledge of the Pacific, and his commitment to dialogue between peoples constitute valuable assets for the Institute’s international outreach.

Professor Oussama Mohamed Nabil Ali is Professor Emeritus at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, where he chaired the Department of French and Islamic Studies. Doctor of Letters, trained between Al-Azhar University and François-Rabelais University in Tours, he dedicates his career to Islamic studies, translation, interfaith dialogue, and cross-cultural relations. Founder and former Director General of the Al-Azhar Observatory, he has been a visiting professor at numerous international institutions including Strasbourg, Paris Descartes, and the Institut Catholique de Paris. Author, translator, and lecturer, his work focuses on East-West dialogue, interfaith coexistence, Islamic thought, countering extremism, and translation of religious texts. He also led the Caravan of Peace for the Muslim Council of Elders in France.

A recognized expert in territorial resilience, energy transition, and environmental transition, Lionel Le Gloanec has more than thirty years of experience in the fields of environmental engineering, sustainable development, natural resource management, and supporting territories in addressing the challenges of ecological transition. His career has led him to hold management positions within major international groups, notably Veolia, as well as to create and manage several companies specializing in environmental solutions, resource recovery, water management, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable territorial development. Throughout his career, he has led numerous projects in Europe and Africa, particularly in Morocco, in the fields of water, energy, sanitation, circular economy, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and the fight against desertification. His expertise also covers issues related to energy transition, environmental innovation, and the governance of strategic resources. Alongside his consulting and engineering activities, Lionel Le Gloanec is involved in higher education as an adjunct professor at the University of Western Brittany, where he shares his expertise on ecological transition issues applied to territories, transport, and logistics. As Director of the Nexus Division of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), he leads research, strategic reflection, and cooperation initiatives dedicated to the interactions between water, energy, food, the environment, and territorial resilience. His work contributes to promoting an integrated approach to major contemporary challenges by highlighting the links between resource security, sustainable development, regional stability, and state sovereignty. Convinced that ecological transitions must be considered at the level of territories and populations, he works to develop innovative solutions that foster resilience, international cooperation, and the emergence of sustainable models adapted to the realities of the 21st century.

Salim Rabbani is an international industrial executive, mechanical engineer, and Executive MBA graduate, with nearly 30 years of experience in the automotive, electronics, mechanical engineering, and industrial services sectors. Founder of ITMC Conseil Industriel and Senior Industrial Adviser for the EBRD, he supports companies in their transformation, growth, and operational excellence projects. A recognized expert in strategy, supply chain, and performance management, he operates internationally.

A lawyer at the Paris Bar, he has recognized expertise in structuring international transactions, project financing, and providing strategic support to institutional, industrial, and financial actors. His professional career, developed within leading international law firms, has led him to work on complex cross-border transactions and advise organizations operating in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. A French-Lebanese national based in Casablanca, Karim Mourtada has a particular interest in the geopolitical, economic, and regulatory dynamics shaping relations between Europe, the Mediterranean, and the African continent. His approach combines solid legal and financial expertise with an in-depth understanding of governance, economic development, and international cooperation issues. Within the IIEG, he actively contributes to the development of the Institute’s international partnerships and to enhancing its visibility among institutional, academic, and economic actors. He also participates in the production of strategic analyses focusing on regulatory transformations, economic changes, and contemporary geopolitical challenges. At the head of the Conflict Prevention & Resolution Division, he supports the development of initiatives dedicated to anticipating crises, promoting strategic dialogue, and seeking solutions that foster stability, cooperation, and peace. His work is part of an approach aimed at strengthening the Institute’s analytical and mediation capacities in the face of the complex challenges of the contemporary world. A graduate of EDHEC Business School (Grande École Programme) and holder of a Master’s degree in Business Law from the Catholic University of Lille, Karim Mourtada is recognized for his rigor, strategic vision, and ability to address legal, economic, and geopolitical issues from a cross-disciplinary perspective.

A professional in project management, strategic coordination and organizational development, Wafae Aziz brings her expertise to the structuring and outreach of IIEG. Holding an Executive Master's in Project and Program Management from the International University of Rabat (UIR) and certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, she has solid experience in operational management, process improvement and steering international-scale projects. Within IIEG, she ensures the general coordination of the Institute's activities, monitoring of strategic projects, organization of scientific events, development of institutional partnerships and structuring of internal processes. As Secretary General, she supports the Institute's governance in defining and deploying its strategy while ensuring operational excellence.

Chartered Accountant, Specialist in Financial Engineering, Governance and Strategic Business Advisory Holding a Master's degree in Economics, specializing in Financial Engineering and Project Management, as well as a French Chartered Accountancy Diploma (DEC), she brings over twenty-five years of experience in finance, accounting, management and business advisory services. She also holds the Aliath certification in independent board directorship. Following an initial professional experience with the EDF Group, she continued her career in 2001 within leading accounting firms in Haute-Savoie, France. There, she advised companies across a wide range of industries, from small businesses to organizations generating several million euros in annual revenue, including those operating in international environments. This diverse professional background has enabled her to develop a cross-disciplinary approach to economic, financial and organizational challenges, grounded in adaptability, close collaboration with business leaders and a pragmatic understanding of entrepreneurial realities. Her professional thesis, focusing on asbestos risk management in the construction industry, reflects her interest in risk management and corporate governance. In 2019, she established her own accounting firm in southern France, reinforcing her entrepreneurial commitment and professional independence. Beyond her technical expertise, she is distinguished by her strategic advisory approach, emphasizing support for business leaders in decision-making, identifying tailored solutions and connecting stakeholders who can contribute to the successful development of their projects. As Treasurer of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), she brings her financial expertise, governance experience and strategic vision to support the Institute's organizational development, long-term sustainability and institutional growth, helping strengthen its operational capabilities and international outreach.

Educated in Statistics, Economics and Finance at University College London (UCL) and Durham University, Othman Mandour has developed expertise at the intersection of quantitative analysis, finance and geopolitics. Following an initial experience in financial markets in London, he pursued his career in corporate finance and mergers & acquisitions (M&A). He currently works as a Senior Financial Analyst, specializing in strategy and international development. His professional experience has notably involved African markets and strategic issues related to the telecommunications sector. His work focuses primarily on the geoeconomics of the Middle East–Africa axis, with particular attention to infrastructure, technology, value chains, standards and financing mechanisms as instruments of power and influence in international relations. Initially an Associate Expert at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Othman Mandour now serves as Secretary in charge of coordinating the Institute’s Divisions, contributing to greater cross-functional cooperation and coordination across the IIEG’s various fields of expertise.

Alexandre Aoun is an independent geopolitical analyst who has been covering crises and conflicts in the Middle East for several years for international organizations (media outlets, journals, think tanks, etc.). A specialist in non-state movements and the transformations of the Arab world, he provides in-depth insight into regional geopolitical dynamics. His numerous trips to the region enable him to gain a better understanding of realities on the ground.

Cyril D. Badaoui is a Lebanese legal professional and expert in international law, development policies, and geopolitics. Holding a Master 2 in International Law and Development Policies from Université Paris Cité, he has developed expertise at the intersection of international law, multilateral diplomacy, global governance, and the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East. Currently **Project Officer at the Permanent Delegation of Lebanon to UNESCO in Paris**, he contributes to activities related to multilateral diplomacy, international cooperation, and the representation of Lebanon within the organization. In parallel, Cyril D. Badaoui is **Legal Advisor – International Law and Development Policies at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**. He contributes to the Institute’s work on international law, contemporary conflicts, multilateral diplomacy, and geopolitical transformations in the Middle East. His career also includes experience in the field of human rights and civil society in Lebanon, particularly on issues of citizenship, women’s participation in public life, and governance. He has notably held responsibilities in project coordination and legal advisory in this field. Through his various responsibilities, Cyril D. Badaoui develops an approach combining **legal expertise, geopolitical analysis, and the practice of multilateral diplomacy**, with a particular interest in the Middle East, international relations, international humanitarian law, armed conflicts, and contemporary development challenges.

**Guy Rossatanga-Rignault** is a Gabonese academic, legal scholar, and political scientist specializing in constitutional law, political institutions, public governance, and international relations. **Appointed Mediator of the Republic and Defender of Rights of Gabon on October 15, 2026**, he has extensive academic and institutional experience gained through higher education, research, and senior positions within the Gabonese government. He holds a PhD in Political Science from Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University, as well as postgraduate qualifications in Public International Law and International Organizations, and Political Science. He also completed specialized studies at the International Academy of Constitutional Law in Tunis. He began his academic career in 1992 at the Faculty of Law and Economics of Omar Bongo University, where he serves as a Full Professor. Between 2002 and 2006, he also held the position of Secretary-General of the University, contributing to its governance and institutional development. Alongside his academic career, Guy Rossatanga-Rignault has held several senior positions within Gabon's state institutions. In 2009, he was appointed Special Adviser to the President of the Republic for Public Affairs. He subsequently served as Secretary-General of the Presidency of the Republic from 2016 to 2018 and again from September 2023 to May 2025. In 2018, he also served as Minister of Fisheries, the Sea, and Maritime Security. His appointment in October 2026 as Mediator of the Republic and Defender of Rights marks a new chapter in his institutional career, focusing on mediation, the protection of citizens' rights, and strengthening dialogue between public institutions and society. Committed to the advancement of knowledge and the preservation of African cultural heritage, he also serves as President of the Raponda-Walker Foundation for Science and Culture, contributing to the promotion of research, history, and Gabonese cultural identities. Bridging academia, public service, and institutional mediation, his career has provided him with expertise in the analysis of political systems, institutional dynamics, and governance challenges in Africa. His experience contributes to strategic discussions on the rule of law, institutional stability, conflict prevention, and political transformations across the African continent.

Founder and Managing Director of VEGELANDE – Vice-President of the E²ARTH Association A graduate of the École Supérieure de Purpan, Jacques Le Courtes is an agricultural engineer and international expert in vegetation engineering, specializing in ecological rehabilitation, soil protection, and territorial resilience. With over thirty years of experience in agronomy, entrepreneurship, and environmental management, he develops nature-based solutions to address ecosystem degradation and climate change challenges. Following an assignment with CIRAD in Cameroon and several positions of responsibility at HYDROGREEN, he founded VEGELANDE in 2010, a company specializing in revegetation techniques and ecological restoration. Since 1996, his professional achievements have contributed to the revegetation of more than 100 million square meters across projects implemented in diverse geographical and climatic environments. His expertise extends across Europe, Latin America, Africa, the Mediterranean region, and the Indian Ocean, with prospects for further development in the Pacific region. His work focuses particularly on erosion control, soil stabilization and protection, drought adaptation, stormwater management, and building greening. He prioritizes solutions tailored to the ecological characteristics and specific constraints of each territory. As Vice-President of the E²ARTH Association, Jacques Le Courtes is also committed to ecosystem preservation, environmental innovation, and knowledge transfer. His approach is based on experimentation, adapting techniques to changing climatic conditions, and strengthening local capacities to promote sustainable and replicable solutions. Within the NEXUS Division of the International Institute of Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), his expertise is intended to contribute to an integrated approach to water, energy, food sovereignty, and territorial resilience. He may notably participate in the development of demonstration projects combining ecological restoration, sustainable natural resource management, and climate adaptation. Through skills transfer, training of local stakeholders, and the implementation of practical solutions, Jacques Le Courtes brings valuable field expertise to the NEXUS Division, bridging ecological innovation, territorial development, and the preservation of strategic resources.

Agricultural Engineer, Specialist in Soil Science, Permaculture and Soil Regeneration – Leader of the VIP PICEA Project A graduate of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of Gembloux in Belgium, Jean Isbecque is an agricultural engineer specializing in soil science, permaculture, and the preservation of living soils. With an international professional background, he has developed expertise at the intersection of agroecology, natural resource management, and sustainable territorial development. Based in Morocco, he is committed to developing innovative solutions that promote ecosystem regeneration and the self-sufficiency of rural territories. He is notably the initiator of VIP PICEA, an agroecological demonstration project combining permaculture, organic matter bioconversion using Black Soldier Fly larvae, and soil fertility restoration. This initiative aims to experiment with sustainable, replicable agricultural models adapted to local resources. As an Associate Expert within the Nexus Division of the IIEG, Jean Isbecque contributes his expertise on the interconnections between water, energy, soils, and food security. His approach aligns with the four pillars of the Nexus Division: education, sovereignty, resilience, and selective cooperation. Through his work, he contributes to promoting territorial development models based on natural resource preservation, knowledge transfer, and strengthening the autonomy of rural communities.

Laura Georgelin is a specialist in environmental policies, climate change adaptation, and the implementation of territorial transitions. A graduate of Sciences Po, where she earned a Master's degree in Environmental Policies, Migration and Project Management, she has developed expertise at the intersection of climate, economic, social and territorial challenges. Currently serving as Climate Project Manager at STEP ONE TO TRANSITION, she supports ecological transition and climate adaptation initiatives. Her expertise includes the Bilan Carbone® methodology, ACT (Accelerate Climate Transition) approaches, climate adaptation assessments, and territorial energy transition strategies. She has also held several positions at the Sustainable Real Estate Observatory (Observatoire de l'Immobilier Durable), including Programme Manager. Committed to raising awareness and fostering collective engagement, Laura Georgelin also facilitates Climate Fresk and 2tonnes workshops, helping make complex climate issues more accessible and supporting behavioral change. Her experience as a member of the Paris Youth Council further reflects her commitment to citizen participation and collaborative public policymaking. Her professional background also includes significant international experience in Peru and Cambodia, where she contributed to local development, social entrepreneurship, organic agriculture and community cooperation projects. In addition to French, she has professional proficiency in English, German and Spanish. Within the IIEG NEXUS Division, Laura Georgelin brings cross-cutting expertise that connects climate challenges with water, energy, food security and territorial development. Her approach focuses on understanding the interdependencies between climate change, economic and social vulnerabilities, human mobility and territorial stability. Through risk analysis, vulnerability assessments and stakeholder engagement, she contributes to the Division's work on developing climate adaptation pathways and strengthening territorial resilience, adopting a systemic perspective that combines strategic foresight, cooperation and collective action.

**Louis-Marie BOUAKA** is an international expert in human rights and public international law, with nearly three decades of experience within the United Nations system. His career is distinguished by extensive expertise in the promotion and protection of fundamental rights, democratic governance, and institutional support in complex political and security environments. Holding a **PhD in Public International Law**, he devoted most of his professional career to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), where he held numerous senior positions from 1995 onwards across Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. From March 2019 to March 2022, he served as **Regional Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for Central Africa**, as well as Director of the United Nations Subregional Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Central Africa, based in Cameroon. In these capacities, he contributed to the promotion of human rights and the strengthening of institutional protection mechanisms at the regional level. Previously, he served as OHCHR Representative in Burundi from 2018 to 2019 and in Guinea from 2011 to 2018. He also held the position of Deputy Director of the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office in the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 2008 to 2011. His international career also includes assignments in Haiti, where he coordinated the Human Rights Section from 2007 to 2008, and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where he held similar responsibilities from 2001 to 2007. Earlier, he served as a Human Rights Officer in Bosnia and Herzegovina from 1999 to 2001 and in Rwanda from 1994 to 1998. Through these various assignments, Louis-Marie BOUAKA has developed an in-depth understanding of human rights protection, institutional dynamics, and governance challenges in environments affected by crises and political transitions. Since his retirement from the United Nations in March 2022, his professional experience has continued to provide valuable perspectives on fundamental rights, democratic governance, conflict prevention, and the consolidation of the rule of law. His international background and extensive knowledge of African realities align closely with the areas of research and strategic reflection pursued by the **International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**, particularly in institutional stability, conflict prevention, and international cooperation.

President of the Loire-Bretagne Basin Committee – President of the French Water Circle – Former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the French Biodiversity Office Thierry Burlot is a territorial engineer and a recognized figure in environmental public policy, specializing in water governance, biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural resource management. With over thirty years of involvement in local authorities and French public institutions, he has developed an approach based on dialogue, territorial solidarity and adaptation to climate challenges. Since 2017, he has chaired the Loire-Bretagne Basin Committee, a strategic body responsible for defining the main orientations of water policy across a territory covering nearly 28% of metropolitan France. In this capacity, he contributes to the planning and integrated management of water resources, fostering dialogue among local authorities, economic stakeholders, farmers, associations and government representatives. Also serving as President of the French Water Circle (Cercle français de l'eau) since 2019 and as a member of the National Water Committee, Thierry Burlot promotes balanced water resource governance, integrating financing mechanisms, ecosystem preservation and secure access to water. His institutional career includes serving as Vice-President of the Brittany Regional Council, responsible for the environment, water, biodiversity and climate from 2010 to 2021. He was also the first Chairman of the Board of Directors of the French Biodiversity Office (Office français de la biodiversité – OFB) between 2020 and 2021, contributing to the establishment of this national public institution dedicated to protecting and restoring biodiversity. His expertise is grounded in a cross-sectoral vision of environmental policies, connecting water management, climate adaptation, biodiversity, agriculture and territorial development. He places particular emphasis on preventing conflicts over resource use, promoting solidarity between territories and achieving sustainable compromises among stakeholders. Appointed Knight of the French Legion of Honour in 2024, Thierry Burlot has been recognized for his commitment to natural resource management and territorial public policy. Within the NEXUS Division of the International Institute of Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), his experience provides valuable insights into integrated water governance, strategic resource sovereignty and territorial resilience. His approach highlights the interdependencies between water, energy, agriculture, food security and territorial stability. Drawing on his extensive experience in institutional dialogue, water resource planning and water policy financing, Thierry Burlot brings an operational perspective to the work of the NEXUS Division, helping bridge strategic thinking, stakeholder cooperation and the implementation of sustainable solutions.

Yassine GAMAL is an expert in strategy, geopolitics and geoeconomics, with over twenty-five years of experience in management, strategic consulting, governance and organizational development. A graduate of the National School of Business and Management (ENCG) in Settat, he also holds postgraduate qualifications in marketing and management, consulting engineering, as well as advanced management and innovation from ICHEC Brussels Management School. In 2022, he further strengthened his academic background by earning a Master of Science in Geopolitics and Geoeconomics of Emerging Africa through the HEC Paris – Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) program. Throughout his professional career, he has held senior management and leadership positions across various economic sectors, including finance, industry, agribusiness and consulting. He has developed cross-disciplinary expertise in designing and implementing development strategies, organizational transformation, performance improvement and executive advisory services. Over the years, he has also led numerous consulting assignments for companies and institutions, focusing on governance, business development, change management and organizational optimization. This experience has provided him with an in-depth understanding of the interactions between economic dynamics, institutional challenges and strategic orientations. Alongside his professional responsibilities, Yassine GAMAL is actively involved in academic research and strategic analysis. He has taught at several higher education institutions and authored research papers and publications addressing geopolitical and geoeconomic issues. As a member of the Board of Directors of the Moroccan Institute of International Relations (IMRI), he has a particular interest in the transformation of global economic balances, competitiveness challenges, development strategies and the interactions between economics and international relations. As an Associate Expert at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Yassine GAMAL contributes to the Institute's strategic research and discussions by drawing on his extensive experience in the economic sphere, his expertise in geoeconomics and his understanding of institutional and international dynamics.

Anas Abdoun is a strategy advisor specializing in geoeconomics, geopolitics and strategic development. With more than ten years of consulting experience working with public-sector institutions and international companies, he advises decision-makers on economic and geopolitical transformations and their implications for strategy, investment and international development. His expertise lies at the intersection of markets, strategy and investment, with particular focus on energy, infrastructure, commodities and strategic resources. His work notably covers international expansion, opportunity origination, and risk and opportunity assessment, primarily across Africa, the Middle East and the Gulf countries. He previously served as a Senior Advisory Consultant at Stratas Advisors, advised the Office of the Head of Government of Morocco, and worked on strategic advisory and market development assignments for a major Middle Eastern national oil company. He also engages with senior executives, diplomats and high-ranking officials at the École de Guerre Économique. His analyses have been cited or featured by the Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, Le Monde, Al Jazeera English and World Politics Review.

Laurent Christian MAMILO is a Cameroonian communications professional with more than twenty years of experience in the design and implementation of communication and marketing strategies. He currently serves as Managing Director of 3CM Communication et Technologies, where he supports multinational companies, international organizations, SMEs, and public institutions, particularly in Cameroon. Throughout his career, he has notably held Communication Manager positions at Exxon Mobil, Isermatic Systèmes France, and Total SA. A graduate in Private Law and Political Science, and holder of a postgraduate degree in Information and Communication Sciences, he also teaches at several universities and higher education institutions, where he shares his expertise through courses and seminars dedicated to the communications profession. His areas of expertise notably include communication and marketing strategy, ICT project management, institutional communication, and performance measurement. His career, spanning Cameroon and the international environment, combines operational expertise, strategic consulting, and knowledge sharing.

Fatima-Zahrae Sotor is a doctoral researcher at the École Normale Supérieure of Abdelmalek Essaadi University, specialising in computer science and applied artificial intelligence. Her thesis focuses on the integration of machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time detection of vacant parking spaces — a pioneering contribution to the field of smart urban systems. During the 2025-2026 academic year, she achieved significant milestones: publishing a paper in a Scopus-indexed international journal, presenting at three scientific conferences (two oral presentations), and winning the Best Poster Award at an international conference, earning broad recognition from the global scientific community. Alongside her research, she teaches at prestigious university programmes (Licence d'excellence and Master d'excellence), reflecting her deep commitment to knowledge transfer and the education of future engineers and researchers. Within IIEG's Academic Pole, Fatima-Zahrae Sotor bridges cutting-edge technological research and contemporary geopolitical challenges surrounding digitalisation and smart cities.

Geopolitical analyst, entrepreneur, and strategic advisor, Khaled Hamadé has devoted his career to analyzing the major geopolitical, economic, and societal transformations shaping the contemporary world. His international experience, enriched by an in-depth knowledge of the dynamics of the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Mediterranean region, enables him to support institutions, companies, and decision-makers in understanding new global balances and the challenges of strategic resilience. Founder and President of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), he promotes a vision based on dialogue, international cooperation, and the anticipation of global transformations. Under his leadership, the IIEG has established itself as an independent platform for reflection, analysis, and proposals, bringing together experts, researchers, public decision-makers, and economic actors around the major challenges of the 21st century. Through his work, Khaled Hamadé has notably developed the concept of the “Arch of Resilience,” a strategic approach highlighting the capacity of territories and nations to strengthen their stability, sovereignty, and ability to adapt in the face of contemporary crises. His reflections focus on issues of governance, diplomacy, security, ecological transition, the management of strategic resources, and regional cooperation. Recognized for his ability to build bridges between the academic, institutional, and economic worlds, he leads numerous strategic dialogues and international initiatives aimed at fostering mutual understanding, crisis prevention, and the development of sustainable solutions. As President of the IIEG, Khaled Hamadé works to develop a geopolitics of cooperation, based on knowledge, innovation, and bringing peoples closer together, in order to contribute to a more stable, more resilient, and more united world.

Professor Jacques Touchon is an eminent figure in the field of neurology, recognized for his major contributions to research on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. He holds a doctorate in medicine obtained in 1979 from the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier and specialized in neurology in 1992. He held the position of Professor of Neurology at the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier from 1990 and served as its Dean from 2000 to 2010. Concurrently, he headed the Neurology Department at the Montpellier University Hospital from 2004 to 2014. Professor Touchon also founded and chaired the National Reference Center for Young Alzheimer's Patients (CNRMAJ). He is co-founder and co-chair of the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD) conference and editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease (JPAD). His exceptional contributions to medical research have been recognized with several distinctions, including the Academic Palms in 1999, the Pinel Prize in 2000, and the Legion of Honor in 2007. As President of the IIEG Scientific Council, Professor Touchon brings high-level scientific expertise, strengthening the academic foundations and methodological rigor of the Institute’s work.

Nouzha Bouchareb is a recognized expert in territorial planning, urban development, housing, and sustainable development. Former Minister of National Territorial Planning, Urban Development, Housing and City Policy of the Kingdom of Morocco, she has extensive experience in the design and implementation of public policies and strategic projects related to sustainable territorial development. Currently Vice-President of the Fondation Maison Méditerranéenne du Climat, she is actively engaged in issues related to climate change, territorial resilience, and sustainable development, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Holding a PhD in Applied Sciences from the Mohammadia School of Engineers and an MBA from ESCAE, she combines scientific and technical expertise, knowledge of public policy, and strategic vision. As **Vice-President of the Scientific Council of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**, Nouzha Bouchareb contributes to the scientific direction and quality of the Institute’s work. Her expertise notably enriches reflections on the interactions between **climate change, strategic resources, territorial resilience, sustainable development, and geopolitical issues**. Her institutional experience and involvement in Mediterranean and international networks also contribute to the development of the IIEG’s scientific cooperation and to strengthening its visibility among academic, institutional, and international stakeholders.

His Excellency Sheikh Ibrahim Hanna-El-Daher is a prominent Lebanese figure whose career combines governmental responsibilities, leadership of major business groups, and institutional and humanitarian engagement, particularly in strengthening relations between France and Lebanon. Originally from Bsharri, Lebanon, he comes from a family with a long-standing involvement in the country's political and institutional life. His academic background includes an engineering degree from the École Supérieure d'Ingénieurs de Beyrouth (ESIB) at Saint Joseph University, studies at the École Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées in Paris, and training in political science, economics and finance at Sciences Po Paris. He also holds a Master's degree in Law from Paris II University and a postgraduate diploma (DESS) in Business Law from Paris V University. His professional career began in 1973 with the UFFI Group, where he became Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 1990. Until 2008, he also headed several subsidiaries of the Vendôme Rome Group, a major provider of real estate services to businesses and individuals, employing more than 2,000 people and generating annual revenues exceeding €150 million. His career also includes chairmanship of a Franco-European business group, executive responsibilities in real estate services, and participation in banking governance. In the political sphere, he served as Lebanon's Minister of State for Administrative Reform from 2004 to 2005, bringing his expertise in governance and management to public institutions. Deeply committed to intercultural dialogue and the strengthening of Franco-Lebanese relations, he has chaired the Board of Directors of the Fondation du Foyer Franco-Libanais in Paris since 1992. Through this historic institution, he has contributed to developing relations between France and Lebanon, particularly by facilitating institutional and humanitarian support during periods of crisis. His commitment also extends to social, educational and cultural initiatives. As President of the Émile Hanna-El-Daher Cultural Foundation, he promotes access to education and social solidarity, notably through school and university scholarship programs supporting young people from his region of origin. As a Member of the Scientific Council of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), H.E. Sheikh Ibrahim Hanna-El-Daher brings his extensive experience in public affairs, governance and international relations to the Institute's strategic discussions. His distinguished career contributes to enriching the Institute's analyses of political and institutional dynamics, international cooperation challenges, and dialogue between the Mediterranean and European regions.

Abdoulaye Sène is Director of the Conflict Prevention and Resolution (PRC) Department at the International Institute of Geopolitical Studies (IIEG). A civil engineer specializing in hydraulics, he has over forty years of experience in water resources management, sanitation, territorial development, and water governance, from the local level to major international institutions. His career is distinguished by a close integration of technical expertise, public governance, international cooperation, and water diplomacy. He currently serves as Chair of the Global Water Partnership West Africa (GWP-WA) and contributes internationally to discussions and strategies focused on water security, climate resilience, and cooperation over water resources. Abdoulaye Sène notably served as Co-Chair and Executive Secretary of the 9th World Water Forum, held in Dakar in 2022, where he coordinated its preparation and organization. He also contributed to the development of the “Dakar Blue Deal on Water Security for Peace and Development,” placing water-related challenges at the heart of peace, stability, and development issues. His experience also encompasses senior institutional and political responsibilities in Senegal. He has served as Director of Hydraulics and Rural Engineering, Technical Adviser to the Minister of Mines, Energy and Water, President of the Fatick Regional Council, Member of the Senegalese National Assembly, and Chair of the Committee on Development and Territorial Planning. He also chaired the Board of Directors of SOGEM, the energy management company of the Senegal River Basin Development Organization (OMVS). Throughout his career, he has developed specialized expertise in integrated water resources management, transboundary cooperation, hydro-diplomacy, climate resilience, the water-energy-food nexus, infrastructure financing, and public-private partnerships. A civil engineering graduate of the École Polytechnique de Thiès, where he graduated at the top of its inaugural class, Abdoulaye Sène also holds a Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering from the École Polytechnique de Montréal. He further enhanced his qualifications through advanced training in water resources planning, management and conservation, sanitation, and large-scale project management. As a lecturer, trainer, and international speaker, he contributes to knowledge sharing in hydraulics, water management, climate change, and sustainable development. His work focuses particularly on water security, infrastructure resilience, territorial development, and sustainable natural resources management. An Officer of the National Order of the Lion of Senegal, Abdoulaye Sène has received several distinctions recognizing his professional achievements and commitment to water management and sustainable development. As Director of the IIEG's Conflict Prevention and Resolution Department, his expertise contributes to developing an approach to crisis prevention that recognizes the interconnected challenges of natural resources, water security, climate change, transboundary cooperation, development, and territorial stability.

Dr. Cheick Sako is a renowned Guinean lawyer and politician, recognized for his commitment to the rule of law and an independent judiciary in Africa. Currently Vice-President in charge of Africa within the Strategic Committee of the Institut Prospective et Sécurité en Europe (IPSE), he continues to play a key role in strategic thinking on the continent. Born in 1953 in Katy, Mali, to a Guinean father and a Malian mother, Cheick Sako grew up in Guinea, where he witnessed the political upheavals of the time. Fleeing the dictatorship of Sékou Touré, he went into exile in France in the 1970s. There, he pursued legal studies at the University of Montpellier, obtaining a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and a postgraduate degree (DEA) in international law. He became a lawyer at the Montpellier Bar in 1991, where he practiced for more than 25 years while also teaching at the university’s Faculty of Law. He was also a member of the Montpellier Bar Council from 1998 to 2000. In France, Cheick Sako became involved in the defense of human rights, notably through the association Juristes sans frontières, which he chaired in Montpellier, defending the values of secularism and fraternity. In 2014, he was appointed Minister of State, Keeper of the Seals, Minister of Justice of the Republic of Guinea, under the presidency of Alpha Condé. During his tenure, he initiated major reforms, such as the establishment of the Superior Council of the Judiciary, the abolition of the death penalty, and the revision of the Civil Code.

Dr. Jean Daniel Ovaga is a Congolese physician, entrepreneur, and business leader dedicated for nearly three decades to health sector development and private sector leadership. A medical graduate of Marien Ngouabi University in Brazzaville, he is founder and CEO of Securex Medical Clinic Group, operating across Congo, with international medical partnerships in Morocco, France, and Turkey. He currently serves as Board Chair and Executive President of the National Union of Economic Operators of Congo (UNOC), Vice-President of the National Order of Physicians of Congo, and President of the Private Health Sector Alliance (ASPS). He is also a former Member of Parliament in Congo's National Assembly serving on the Health, Population, and Social Affairs Committee.

Jean-Marie HEYDT, Ph.D., is an Honorary Professor of Social Sciences and an Associate Researcher with academic institutions in Morocco and France. Holding a Ph.D. in Human and Political Sciences, specializing in comparative education, as well as a degree in European Studies, he works as an international expert and senior consultant for public and international institutions. His expertise notably covers the analysis of political and societal developments, migration, public policies, team management, and crisis management. He notably served as President of the Conference of INGOs of the Council of Europe as well as President of the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe in Lisbon. Author and contributor to numerous publications, his work focuses particularly on migration, societal transformations, Morocco-Europe relations, and contemporary political issues.

Professor Najib Zerouali Ouariti is a leading figure in Morocco’s academic, scientific, and institutional spheres. A renowned surgeon, academic, former minister, and diplomat, he has devoted his career to the development of higher education, scientific research, and public policies serving human progress. A Full Professor of Surgery and former Head of the Surgical Emergency and Burns Department at Avicenne University Hospital in Casablanca, he also served as Vice-Dean and subsequently Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of Casablanca, where he is now Honorary Dean. His academic career has been marked by a constant commitment to academic excellence, medical education, and the advancement of scientific research. His expertise led him to hold senior government positions as Minister of Higher Education, Executive Training and Scientific Research, and later as Minister in charge of the Modernization of Public Sectors. He also represented the Kingdom of Morocco as Ambassador to Tunisia, contributing to strengthening dialogue and cooperation between States. A recognized contributor to international scientific cooperation, Professor Najib Zerouali Ouariti has held numerous positions within regional and international organizations. He notably served as Founding President of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Bioethics Committee, President of the General Conference of ISESCO, President of the General Conference of ALECSO, and President of the Maghreb Conference of Deans and Directors of Faculties of Medicine. Recipient of several national and international distinctions, including the Order of the Throne of the Kingdom of Morocco and the French Ordre des Palmes Académiques, he is recognized for his contribution to the advancement of research, higher education, and scientific cooperation across the Mediterranean, African, and international spheres.

Salman is a Lebanese-American architect, entrepreneur, and cross-cultural practitioner whose professional career has spanned North America, the Middle East, and Africa. He is the Founder and Managing Director of Atlanta Interior Design & Trading (AIDC), a multidisciplinary architecture, interior design, and design-build firm headquartered in Doha, Qatar, with projects and partnerships extending across the Gulf region, Africa, Europe, and the United States. Born in Africa and raised in Beirut, Lebanon, during the early years of the Lebanese civil war, Wassim's formative experiences fostered a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, coexistence, and the profound influence that social and political realities have on communities and the built environment. These experiences continue to inform his professional philosophy and his interest in the relationship between identity, development, and place-making. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette) in the United States. The experience of studying and living far from home during a formative period of his life exposed him to diverse perspectives and reinforced his belief that meaningful differences between societies often stem less from values than from misunderstanding and limited exposure to one another. Wassim spent a significant portion of his professional career living and practicing in Atlanta, Georgia, where he continues to maintain a residence. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, he has worked extensively across multicultural environments and developed a broad international perspective shaped by both Western and Middle Eastern experiences. Over the course of more than four decades in design, development, and entrepreneurship, Wassim has led projects across hospitality, education, healthcare, commercial, residential, mixed-use, and institutional sectors. His work has been recognized through professional design awards in both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, reflecting a commitment to design excellence, innovation, and contextual sensitivity. Beyond professional practice, Wassim views architecture as both a cultural and strategic discipline. He believes that the built environment serves as a powerful reflection of societal values and a meaningful platform for dialogue between traditions, communities, and cultures. Through his work, he advocates for responsible development, cultural understanding, and the use of design as a bridge between diverse perspectives and shared human aspirations. His continuing interests include cross-cultural engagement, urban development, entrepreneurship, education, and the role of design in promoting social cohesion and international dialogue.

Achille Agbé is a member of the Scientific Council of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG). A financial entrepreneur, capital markets expert and specialist in banking and financial law, he works at the intersection of finance, technological innovation, regulation and economic development. Originally from Côte d’Ivoire and active across Europe, Canada, Asia, Africa and major international financial hubs, he has more than eighteen years of experience in financial structuring, fundraising and market engineering. He advises investment banks, funds and high-growth companies on complex transactions, including initial public offerings (IPOs), structured finance, private equity and over-the-counter (OTC) markets. His expertise also covers compliance, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT), as well as market infrastructures. Founder of EIC Corporation, an organization established in 2008 and now present in more than 50 countries, Achille Agbé has developed an inclusive finance model based on investment clubs, financial education and economic diplomacy. The organization brings together several thousand members and aims to broaden access to investment mechanisms, particularly for underserved populations and small and medium-sized enterprises. He also leads iCapital Ventures, a Canadian decentralized, non-custodial private investment structure specializing in asset tokenization, financial structuring and supporting companies in their capital-raising activities through innovative fintech solutions. His career also includes institutional experience in Côte d’Ivoire, notably as a technical advisor to the Minister responsible for Trade, Industry and Entrepreneurship, where he focused particularly on business financing issues. He has also held strategic positions within consulting firms, financial institutions and international organizations, strengthening his expertise in financial analysis, transaction structuring and economic development. Achille Agbé holds a degree in Business Law, an MBA from EDHEC and an MBA specializing in International Finance from INSEEC Paris. His academic work focuses notably on the use of crypto-assets in corporate financing and, more broadly, on the transformations driven by digital finance. As Associate Director of SRBS Business School, he also teaches and lectures at several higher education institutions on corporate finance, fintech regulation and financial markets. He is the author of several books on the transformation of finance, including ICO/STO: The New Economics of Corporate Finance (2019) and Manifesto of Liorism: Towards an Ethical, Sovereign Financial Revolution in the Era of Circular Finance (2026). His work explores the convergence of traditional finance, blockchain technologies and tokenized finance. His research and professional activities focus particularly on the convergence of technological innovation, financial regulation and economic inclusion. He advocates an approach to decentralized finance that combines innovation, regulatory requirements and inclusive economic development. Within the IIEG Scientific Council, his expertise contributes in particular to the Institute’s work on the transformation of financial systems, fintech, new financing mechanisms, economic sovereignty and the challenges of financial inclusion. Through his entrepreneurial, academic and institutional activities, Achille Agbé develops a systemic approach to contemporary financial transformations, combining financial engineering, legal structuring, digital technologies and economic and social impact.

Yann Fortunato is a committed and visionary executive, recognized for his involvement in sustainable forest management, social governance, and territorial innovation. Founder and Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Racines de France, a company specializing in investment in and management of forest estates, he actively contributes to reforestation, ecosystem preservation, and the sustainable management of forest resources in France. In parallel, he serves as President of the Montpellier Labour Court (Conseil de prud’hommes) and as a member of the Regional Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESER) of Occitanie, where he contributes to discussions on the economic, social, and environmental challenges facing local and regional territories. Yann Fortunato is also an active speaker, sharing his expertise on ecological transition, the sustainable management of natural resources, and the strategic role of forests in addressing climate change. As **Vice-President in charge of Europe at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**, Yann Fortunato contributes to the development and international visibility of the Institute across Europe. He supports the strengthening of relations with European institutional, economic, and academic stakeholders and contributes to the IIEG’s work on major issues related to ecological transition, sovereignty, territorial resilience, and Europe’s economic and geopolitical transformations. His career, at the intersection of entrepreneurship, social governance, and environmental transition, brings to the Institute expertise firmly rooted in European economic and territorial realities.

An international entrepreneur, organizational transformation strategist, and expert in economic relations between Europe and India, Sanjeev Rao has more than thirty years of experience at the intersection of business, investment, and international cooperation. A graduate in telecommunications engineering and holder of an MBA from INSEAD, he has held senior positions within major international groups before supporting numerous companies in their development, innovation, and international expansion strategies. His career has led him to work with multinational companies, investors, and institutions on projects with a strong strategic and intercultural dimension. Founder of G2i-Ventures, he has worked for nearly two decades to strengthen economic, technological, and human relations between Europe and India. His expertise notably covers strategic transformation, cross-border investments, the development of international partnerships, and supporting executives through contemporary economic and societal transformations. A speaker and lecturer at leading schools and universities in Europe and India, he is also interested in issues related to leadership, social innovation, education, and talent development. His approach combines strategic vision, intercultural intelligence, and a commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. As Vice-President in charge of India within the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Sanjeev Rao contributes to the development of academic, economic, and institutional partnerships between India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. He supports the Institute’s work on the major geopolitical, economic, and societal dynamics shaping the balances of tomorrow’s world.

A graduate of the Grenoble Institute of Applied Mathematics and the École Supérieure de Commerce de Paris (ESCP), Amine Benchekri is an executive and strategic advisor with more than 35 years of experience in business development, management consulting, organizational transformation, and investment structuring. He began his career in Paris as a consultant specializing in financial reporting and consolidation systems before joining Price Waterhouse in 1992, where he contributed to the development of consulting activities in Africa. This experience enabled him to acquire an in-depth understanding of governance, performance, and organizational development issues in complex international environments. In 1995, he founded Archos-Conseil in Casablanca, a consulting firm specializing in management and information systems. Under his leadership, the company experienced significant growth and attracted leading investors, resulting in the opening of its capital to a French engineering group listed on the Paris Stock Exchange and subsequently to a major Moroccan private group. In 2005, he joined Danone Morocco as Vice-President in charge of Supply Chain and Information Systems. There, he led several strategic transformation projects and contributed to the optimization of the group’s industrial, logistics, and technological operations. From 2015 to 2024, he was appointed by an investment fund to serve as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of a group operating in the logistics, press distribution, educational publishing, and e-education platform sectors. In this capacity, he led a major restructuring, modernization, and strategic development program. In 2024, he co-founded Devlopia & Partners, a consulting firm dedicated to supporting companies in their growth projects, financing structuring, strategic development, and the facilitation of high-value-added partnerships. Within the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Amine Benchekri is **Executive Director of the Global South Division**. In this capacity, he leads research and initiatives dedicated to the profound geopolitical and economic transformations redefining the place of Global South countries within international balances. His work focuses particularly on **new South-South cooperation dynamics, sovereignty and development issues, transformations in global value chains, investments, international economic relations, and the emergence of new centers of power in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America**. He also contributes to the development of partnerships between academic, institutional, and economic actors in order to foster dialogue and cooperation between the different regions of the Global South. His expertise in governance, organizational transformation, investment, and economic development brings to the Global South Division an approach to major international transformations that is both strategic and operational. Convinced that contemporary challenges require a cross-disciplinary approach combining expertise, innovation, and cooperation, he works to strengthen synergies between the academic, institutional, and economic worlds in order to promote strategic thinking in support of sustainable development, stability, and territorial resilience.

An international entrepreneur, organizational transformation strategist, and expert in economic relations between Europe and India, Sanjeev Rao has more than thirty years of experience at the intersection of business, investment, and international cooperation. A graduate in telecommunications engineering and holder of an MBA from INSEAD, he has held senior positions within major international groups before supporting numerous companies in their development, innovation, and international expansion strategies. His career has led him to work with multinational companies, investors, and institutions on projects with a strong strategic and intercultural dimension. Founder of G2i-Ventures, he has worked for nearly two decades to strengthen economic, technological, and human relations between Europe and India. His expertise notably covers strategic transformation, cross-border investments, the development of international partnerships, and supporting executives through contemporary economic and societal transformations. A speaker and lecturer at leading schools and universities in Europe and India, he is also interested in issues related to leadership, social innovation, education, and talent development. His approach combines strategic vision, intercultural intelligence, and a commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. As Vice-President in charge of India within the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Sanjeev Rao contributes to the development of academic, economic, and institutional partnerships between India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. He supports the Institute’s work on the major geopolitical, economic, and societal dynamics shaping the balances of tomorrow’s world.

Joseph Maroun is a prominent figure committed to intercultural dialogue, Francophonie, and international cooperation for more than forty years. An independent consultant, publisher, publication director, and recognized figure in the cultural and institutional life of the Pacific, he has worked for several decades to bring peoples closer together and to develop exchanges between Europe, the Middle East, and the Oceania-Pacific region. Originally from Lebanon and based in French Polynesia since 1982, he holds Lebanese, French, and Brazilian citizenship. A graduate in economics and commercial management in Montpellier, he has held positions of responsibility in marketing, business development, institutional communication, and strategic consulting, in both the private and public sectors. For more than fifteen years, he has served as Honorary Consul of Lebanon in French Polynesia and chairs the Diplomatic Corps of French Polynesia. His work is marked by a constant commitment to intercultural dialogue, citizen diplomacy, Francophonie, and international solidarity. Founder of the association “Les Amis du Liban-Tahiti,” the Club Polynésien de la Francophonie, as well as the cultural magazines “Arz Lebnaan” and “FrancOcéanie,” Joseph Maroun has initiated numerous cultural, educational, and humanitarian cooperation initiatives. Through exhibitions, publications, artistic events, educational programs, and solidarity initiatives, he actively contributes to promoting cultural diversity, dialogue between civilizations, and the values of peace and fraternity. A poet, writer, and advocate of Francophonie, he is the author of several literary collections and has devoted a significant part of his commitment to promoting the French language and enhancing the visibility of Pacific cultures. His work has notably enabled the development of major educational and cultural projects benefiting thousands of young people in French Polynesia. Honored on several occasions for his associative, cultural, and humanitarian commitment, Joseph Maroun is notably a Knight of the Order of Academic Palms and a Knight of the Order of La Pléiade and Francophonie. As Vice-President in charge of Oceania and the Pacific at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), he contributes to the development of the Institute’s institutional relations in the Indo-Pacific region and supports work dedicated to the geopolitical, cultural, environmental, and strategic issues shaping the future of this major region of the 21st century. His diplomatic experience, his in-depth knowledge of the Pacific, and his commitment to dialogue between peoples constitute valuable assets for the Institute’s international outreach.

Professor Oussama Mohamed Nabil Ali is Professor Emeritus at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, where he chaired the Department of French and Islamic Studies. Doctor of Letters, trained between Al-Azhar University and François-Rabelais University in Tours, he dedicates his career to Islamic studies, translation, interfaith dialogue, and cross-cultural relations. Founder and former Director General of the Al-Azhar Observatory, he has been a visiting professor at numerous international institutions including Strasbourg, Paris Descartes, and the Institut Catholique de Paris. Author, translator, and lecturer, his work focuses on East-West dialogue, interfaith coexistence, Islamic thought, countering extremism, and translation of religious texts. He also led the Caravan of Peace for the Muslim Council of Elders in France.

A recognized expert in territorial resilience, energy transition, and environmental transition, Lionel Le Gloanec has more than thirty years of experience in the fields of environmental engineering, sustainable development, natural resource management, and supporting territories in addressing the challenges of ecological transition. His career has led him to hold management positions within major international groups, notably Veolia, as well as to create and manage several companies specializing in environmental solutions, resource recovery, water management, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable territorial development. Throughout his career, he has led numerous projects in Europe and Africa, particularly in Morocco, in the fields of water, energy, sanitation, circular economy, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and the fight against desertification. His expertise also covers issues related to energy transition, environmental innovation, and the governance of strategic resources. Alongside his consulting and engineering activities, Lionel Le Gloanec is involved in higher education as an adjunct professor at the University of Western Brittany, where he shares his expertise on ecological transition issues applied to territories, transport, and logistics. As Director of the Nexus Division of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), he leads research, strategic reflection, and cooperation initiatives dedicated to the interactions between water, energy, food, the environment, and territorial resilience. His work contributes to promoting an integrated approach to major contemporary challenges by highlighting the links between resource security, sustainable development, regional stability, and state sovereignty. Convinced that ecological transitions must be considered at the level of territories and populations, he works to develop innovative solutions that foster resilience, international cooperation, and the emergence of sustainable models adapted to the realities of the 21st century.

Salim Rabbani is an international industrial executive, mechanical engineer, and Executive MBA graduate, with nearly 30 years of experience in the automotive, electronics, mechanical engineering, and industrial services sectors. Founder of ITMC Conseil Industriel and Senior Industrial Adviser for the EBRD, he supports companies in their transformation, growth, and operational excellence projects. A recognized expert in strategy, supply chain, and performance management, he operates internationally.

A lawyer at the Paris Bar, he has recognized expertise in structuring international transactions, project financing, and providing strategic support to institutional, industrial, and financial actors. His professional career, developed within leading international law firms, has led him to work on complex cross-border transactions and advise organizations operating in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. A French-Lebanese national based in Casablanca, Karim Mourtada has a particular interest in the geopolitical, economic, and regulatory dynamics shaping relations between Europe, the Mediterranean, and the African continent. His approach combines solid legal and financial expertise with an in-depth understanding of governance, economic development, and international cooperation issues. Within the IIEG, he actively contributes to the development of the Institute’s international partnerships and to enhancing its visibility among institutional, academic, and economic actors. He also participates in the production of strategic analyses focusing on regulatory transformations, economic changes, and contemporary geopolitical challenges. At the head of the Conflict Prevention & Resolution Division, he supports the development of initiatives dedicated to anticipating crises, promoting strategic dialogue, and seeking solutions that foster stability, cooperation, and peace. His work is part of an approach aimed at strengthening the Institute’s analytical and mediation capacities in the face of the complex challenges of the contemporary world. A graduate of EDHEC Business School (Grande École Programme) and holder of a Master’s degree in Business Law from the Catholic University of Lille, Karim Mourtada is recognized for his rigor, strategic vision, and ability to address legal, economic, and geopolitical issues from a cross-disciplinary perspective.

A professional in project management, strategic coordination and organizational development, Wafae Aziz brings her expertise to the structuring and outreach of IIEG. Holding an Executive Master's in Project and Program Management from the International University of Rabat (UIR) and certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, she has solid experience in operational management, process improvement and steering international-scale projects. Within IIEG, she ensures the general coordination of the Institute's activities, monitoring of strategic projects, organization of scientific events, development of institutional partnerships and structuring of internal processes. As Secretary General, she supports the Institute's governance in defining and deploying its strategy while ensuring operational excellence.

Chartered Accountant, Specialist in Financial Engineering, Governance and Strategic Business Advisory Holding a Master's degree in Economics, specializing in Financial Engineering and Project Management, as well as a French Chartered Accountancy Diploma (DEC), she brings over twenty-five years of experience in finance, accounting, management and business advisory services. She also holds the Aliath certification in independent board directorship. Following an initial professional experience with the EDF Group, she continued her career in 2001 within leading accounting firms in Haute-Savoie, France. There, she advised companies across a wide range of industries, from small businesses to organizations generating several million euros in annual revenue, including those operating in international environments. This diverse professional background has enabled her to develop a cross-disciplinary approach to economic, financial and organizational challenges, grounded in adaptability, close collaboration with business leaders and a pragmatic understanding of entrepreneurial realities. Her professional thesis, focusing on asbestos risk management in the construction industry, reflects her interest in risk management and corporate governance. In 2019, she established her own accounting firm in southern France, reinforcing her entrepreneurial commitment and professional independence. Beyond her technical expertise, she is distinguished by her strategic advisory approach, emphasizing support for business leaders in decision-making, identifying tailored solutions and connecting stakeholders who can contribute to the successful development of their projects. As Treasurer of the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), she brings her financial expertise, governance experience and strategic vision to support the Institute's organizational development, long-term sustainability and institutional growth, helping strengthen its operational capabilities and international outreach.

Educated in Statistics, Economics and Finance at University College London (UCL) and Durham University, Othman Mandour has developed expertise at the intersection of quantitative analysis, finance and geopolitics. Following an initial experience in financial markets in London, he pursued his career in corporate finance and mergers & acquisitions (M&A). He currently works as a Senior Financial Analyst, specializing in strategy and international development. His professional experience has notably involved African markets and strategic issues related to the telecommunications sector. His work focuses primarily on the geoeconomics of the Middle East–Africa axis, with particular attention to infrastructure, technology, value chains, standards and financing mechanisms as instruments of power and influence in international relations. Initially an Associate Expert at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Othman Mandour now serves as Secretary in charge of coordinating the Institute’s Divisions, contributing to greater cross-functional cooperation and coordination across the IIEG’s various fields of expertise.

Alexandre Aoun is an independent geopolitical analyst who has been covering crises and conflicts in the Middle East for several years for international organizations (media outlets, journals, think tanks, etc.). A specialist in non-state movements and the transformations of the Arab world, he provides in-depth insight into regional geopolitical dynamics. His numerous trips to the region enable him to gain a better understanding of realities on the ground.

Cyril D. Badaoui is a Lebanese legal professional and expert in international law, development policies, and geopolitics. Holding a Master 2 in International Law and Development Policies from Université Paris Cité, he has developed expertise at the intersection of international law, multilateral diplomacy, global governance, and the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East. Currently **Project Officer at the Permanent Delegation of Lebanon to UNESCO in Paris**, he contributes to activities related to multilateral diplomacy, international cooperation, and the representation of Lebanon within the organization. In parallel, Cyril D. Badaoui is **Legal Advisor – International Law and Development Policies at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**. He contributes to the Institute’s work on international law, contemporary conflicts, multilateral diplomacy, and geopolitical transformations in the Middle East. His career also includes experience in the field of human rights and civil society in Lebanon, particularly on issues of citizenship, women’s participation in public life, and governance. He has notably held responsibilities in project coordination and legal advisory in this field. Through his various responsibilities, Cyril D. Badaoui develops an approach combining **legal expertise, geopolitical analysis, and the practice of multilateral diplomacy**, with a particular interest in the Middle East, international relations, international humanitarian law, armed conflicts, and contemporary development challenges.

**Guy Rossatanga-Rignault** is a Gabonese academic, legal scholar, and political scientist specializing in constitutional law, political institutions, public governance, and international relations. **Appointed Mediator of the Republic and Defender of Rights of Gabon on October 15, 2026**, he has extensive academic and institutional experience gained through higher education, research, and senior positions within the Gabonese government. He holds a PhD in Political Science from Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University, as well as postgraduate qualifications in Public International Law and International Organizations, and Political Science. He also completed specialized studies at the International Academy of Constitutional Law in Tunis. He began his academic career in 1992 at the Faculty of Law and Economics of Omar Bongo University, where he serves as a Full Professor. Between 2002 and 2006, he also held the position of Secretary-General of the University, contributing to its governance and institutional development. Alongside his academic career, Guy Rossatanga-Rignault has held several senior positions within Gabon's state institutions. In 2009, he was appointed Special Adviser to the President of the Republic for Public Affairs. He subsequently served as Secretary-General of the Presidency of the Republic from 2016 to 2018 and again from September 2023 to May 2025. In 2018, he also served as Minister of Fisheries, the Sea, and Maritime Security. His appointment in October 2026 as Mediator of the Republic and Defender of Rights marks a new chapter in his institutional career, focusing on mediation, the protection of citizens' rights, and strengthening dialogue between public institutions and society. Committed to the advancement of knowledge and the preservation of African cultural heritage, he also serves as President of the Raponda-Walker Foundation for Science and Culture, contributing to the promotion of research, history, and Gabonese cultural identities. Bridging academia, public service, and institutional mediation, his career has provided him with expertise in the analysis of political systems, institutional dynamics, and governance challenges in Africa. His experience contributes to strategic discussions on the rule of law, institutional stability, conflict prevention, and political transformations across the African continent.

Founder and Managing Director of VEGELANDE – Vice-President of the E²ARTH Association A graduate of the École Supérieure de Purpan, Jacques Le Courtes is an agricultural engineer and international expert in vegetation engineering, specializing in ecological rehabilitation, soil protection, and territorial resilience. With over thirty years of experience in agronomy, entrepreneurship, and environmental management, he develops nature-based solutions to address ecosystem degradation and climate change challenges. Following an assignment with CIRAD in Cameroon and several positions of responsibility at HYDROGREEN, he founded VEGELANDE in 2010, a company specializing in revegetation techniques and ecological restoration. Since 1996, his professional achievements have contributed to the revegetation of more than 100 million square meters across projects implemented in diverse geographical and climatic environments. His expertise extends across Europe, Latin America, Africa, the Mediterranean region, and the Indian Ocean, with prospects for further development in the Pacific region. His work focuses particularly on erosion control, soil stabilization and protection, drought adaptation, stormwater management, and building greening. He prioritizes solutions tailored to the ecological characteristics and specific constraints of each territory. As Vice-President of the E²ARTH Association, Jacques Le Courtes is also committed to ecosystem preservation, environmental innovation, and knowledge transfer. His approach is based on experimentation, adapting techniques to changing climatic conditions, and strengthening local capacities to promote sustainable and replicable solutions. Within the NEXUS Division of the International Institute of Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), his expertise is intended to contribute to an integrated approach to water, energy, food sovereignty, and territorial resilience. He may notably participate in the development of demonstration projects combining ecological restoration, sustainable natural resource management, and climate adaptation. Through skills transfer, training of local stakeholders, and the implementation of practical solutions, Jacques Le Courtes brings valuable field expertise to the NEXUS Division, bridging ecological innovation, territorial development, and the preservation of strategic resources.

Agricultural Engineer, Specialist in Soil Science, Permaculture and Soil Regeneration – Leader of the VIP PICEA Project A graduate of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of Gembloux in Belgium, Jean Isbecque is an agricultural engineer specializing in soil science, permaculture, and the preservation of living soils. With an international professional background, he has developed expertise at the intersection of agroecology, natural resource management, and sustainable territorial development. Based in Morocco, he is committed to developing innovative solutions that promote ecosystem regeneration and the self-sufficiency of rural territories. He is notably the initiator of VIP PICEA, an agroecological demonstration project combining permaculture, organic matter bioconversion using Black Soldier Fly larvae, and soil fertility restoration. This initiative aims to experiment with sustainable, replicable agricultural models adapted to local resources. As an Associate Expert within the Nexus Division of the IIEG, Jean Isbecque contributes his expertise on the interconnections between water, energy, soils, and food security. His approach aligns with the four pillars of the Nexus Division: education, sovereignty, resilience, and selective cooperation. Through his work, he contributes to promoting territorial development models based on natural resource preservation, knowledge transfer, and strengthening the autonomy of rural communities.

Laura Georgelin is a specialist in environmental policies, climate change adaptation, and the implementation of territorial transitions. A graduate of Sciences Po, where she earned a Master's degree in Environmental Policies, Migration and Project Management, she has developed expertise at the intersection of climate, economic, social and territorial challenges. Currently serving as Climate Project Manager at STEP ONE TO TRANSITION, she supports ecological transition and climate adaptation initiatives. Her expertise includes the Bilan Carbone® methodology, ACT (Accelerate Climate Transition) approaches, climate adaptation assessments, and territorial energy transition strategies. She has also held several positions at the Sustainable Real Estate Observatory (Observatoire de l'Immobilier Durable), including Programme Manager. Committed to raising awareness and fostering collective engagement, Laura Georgelin also facilitates Climate Fresk and 2tonnes workshops, helping make complex climate issues more accessible and supporting behavioral change. Her experience as a member of the Paris Youth Council further reflects her commitment to citizen participation and collaborative public policymaking. Her professional background also includes significant international experience in Peru and Cambodia, where she contributed to local development, social entrepreneurship, organic agriculture and community cooperation projects. In addition to French, she has professional proficiency in English, German and Spanish. Within the IIEG NEXUS Division, Laura Georgelin brings cross-cutting expertise that connects climate challenges with water, energy, food security and territorial development. Her approach focuses on understanding the interdependencies between climate change, economic and social vulnerabilities, human mobility and territorial stability. Through risk analysis, vulnerability assessments and stakeholder engagement, she contributes to the Division's work on developing climate adaptation pathways and strengthening territorial resilience, adopting a systemic perspective that combines strategic foresight, cooperation and collective action.

**Louis-Marie BOUAKA** is an international expert in human rights and public international law, with nearly three decades of experience within the United Nations system. His career is distinguished by extensive expertise in the promotion and protection of fundamental rights, democratic governance, and institutional support in complex political and security environments. Holding a **PhD in Public International Law**, he devoted most of his professional career to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), where he held numerous senior positions from 1995 onwards across Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. From March 2019 to March 2022, he served as **Regional Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for Central Africa**, as well as Director of the United Nations Subregional Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Central Africa, based in Cameroon. In these capacities, he contributed to the promotion of human rights and the strengthening of institutional protection mechanisms at the regional level. Previously, he served as OHCHR Representative in Burundi from 2018 to 2019 and in Guinea from 2011 to 2018. He also held the position of Deputy Director of the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office in the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 2008 to 2011. His international career also includes assignments in Haiti, where he coordinated the Human Rights Section from 2007 to 2008, and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where he held similar responsibilities from 2001 to 2007. Earlier, he served as a Human Rights Officer in Bosnia and Herzegovina from 1999 to 2001 and in Rwanda from 1994 to 1998. Through these various assignments, Louis-Marie BOUAKA has developed an in-depth understanding of human rights protection, institutional dynamics, and governance challenges in environments affected by crises and political transitions. Since his retirement from the United Nations in March 2022, his professional experience has continued to provide valuable perspectives on fundamental rights, democratic governance, conflict prevention, and the consolidation of the rule of law. His international background and extensive knowledge of African realities align closely with the areas of research and strategic reflection pursued by the **International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG)**, particularly in institutional stability, conflict prevention, and international cooperation.

President of the Loire-Bretagne Basin Committee – President of the French Water Circle – Former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the French Biodiversity Office Thierry Burlot is a territorial engineer and a recognized figure in environmental public policy, specializing in water governance, biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural resource management. With over thirty years of involvement in local authorities and French public institutions, he has developed an approach based on dialogue, territorial solidarity and adaptation to climate challenges. Since 2017, he has chaired the Loire-Bretagne Basin Committee, a strategic body responsible for defining the main orientations of water policy across a territory covering nearly 28% of metropolitan France. In this capacity, he contributes to the planning and integrated management of water resources, fostering dialogue among local authorities, economic stakeholders, farmers, associations and government representatives. Also serving as President of the French Water Circle (Cercle français de l'eau) since 2019 and as a member of the National Water Committee, Thierry Burlot promotes balanced water resource governance, integrating financing mechanisms, ecosystem preservation and secure access to water. His institutional career includes serving as Vice-President of the Brittany Regional Council, responsible for the environment, water, biodiversity and climate from 2010 to 2021. He was also the first Chairman of the Board of Directors of the French Biodiversity Office (Office français de la biodiversité – OFB) between 2020 and 2021, contributing to the establishment of this national public institution dedicated to protecting and restoring biodiversity. His expertise is grounded in a cross-sectoral vision of environmental policies, connecting water management, climate adaptation, biodiversity, agriculture and territorial development. He places particular emphasis on preventing conflicts over resource use, promoting solidarity between territories and achieving sustainable compromises among stakeholders. Appointed Knight of the French Legion of Honour in 2024, Thierry Burlot has been recognized for his commitment to natural resource management and territorial public policy. Within the NEXUS Division of the International Institute of Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), his experience provides valuable insights into integrated water governance, strategic resource sovereignty and territorial resilience. His approach highlights the interdependencies between water, energy, agriculture, food security and territorial stability. Drawing on his extensive experience in institutional dialogue, water resource planning and water policy financing, Thierry Burlot brings an operational perspective to the work of the NEXUS Division, helping bridge strategic thinking, stakeholder cooperation and the implementation of sustainable solutions.

Yassine GAMAL is an expert in strategy, geopolitics and geoeconomics, with over twenty-five years of experience in management, strategic consulting, governance and organizational development. A graduate of the National School of Business and Management (ENCG) in Settat, he also holds postgraduate qualifications in marketing and management, consulting engineering, as well as advanced management and innovation from ICHEC Brussels Management School. In 2022, he further strengthened his academic background by earning a Master of Science in Geopolitics and Geoeconomics of Emerging Africa through the HEC Paris – Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) program. Throughout his professional career, he has held senior management and leadership positions across various economic sectors, including finance, industry, agribusiness and consulting. He has developed cross-disciplinary expertise in designing and implementing development strategies, organizational transformation, performance improvement and executive advisory services. Over the years, he has also led numerous consulting assignments for companies and institutions, focusing on governance, business development, change management and organizational optimization. This experience has provided him with an in-depth understanding of the interactions between economic dynamics, institutional challenges and strategic orientations. Alongside his professional responsibilities, Yassine GAMAL is actively involved in academic research and strategic analysis. He has taught at several higher education institutions and authored research papers and publications addressing geopolitical and geoeconomic issues. As a member of the Board of Directors of the Moroccan Institute of International Relations (IMRI), he has a particular interest in the transformation of global economic balances, competitiveness challenges, development strategies and the interactions between economics and international relations. As an Associate Expert at the International Institute for Geopolitical Studies (IIEG), Yassine GAMAL contributes to the Institute's strategic research and discussions by drawing on his extensive experience in the economic sphere, his expertise in geoeconomics and his understanding of institutional and international dynamics.

Anas Abdoun is a strategy advisor specializing in geoeconomics, geopolitics and strategic development. With more than ten years of consulting experience working with public-sector institutions and international companies, he advises decision-makers on economic and geopolitical transformations and their implications for strategy, investment and international development. His expertise lies at the intersection of markets, strategy and investment, with particular focus on energy, infrastructure, commodities and strategic resources. His work notably covers international expansion, opportunity origination, and risk and opportunity assessment, primarily across Africa, the Middle East and the Gulf countries. He previously served as a Senior Advisory Consultant at Stratas Advisors, advised the Office of the Head of Government of Morocco, and worked on strategic advisory and market development assignments for a major Middle Eastern national oil company. He also engages with senior executives, diplomats and high-ranking officials at the École de Guerre Économique. His analyses have been cited or featured by the Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, Le Monde, Al Jazeera English and World Politics Review.

Laurent Christian MAMILO is a Cameroonian communications professional with more than twenty years of experience in the design and implementation of communication and marketing strategies. He currently serves as Managing Director of 3CM Communication et Technologies, where he supports multinational companies, international organizations, SMEs, and public institutions, particularly in Cameroon. Throughout his career, he has notably held Communication Manager positions at Exxon Mobil, Isermatic Systèmes France, and Total SA. A graduate in Private Law and Political Science, and holder of a postgraduate degree in Information and Communication Sciences, he also teaches at several universities and higher education institutions, where he shares his expertise through courses and seminars dedicated to the communications profession. His areas of expertise notably include communication and marketing strategy, ICT project management, institutional communication, and performance measurement. His career, spanning Cameroon and the international environment, combines operational expertise, strategic consulting, and knowledge sharing.

Fatima-Zahrae Sotor is a doctoral researcher at the École Normale Supérieure of Abdelmalek Essaadi University, specialising in computer science and applied artificial intelligence. Her thesis focuses on the integration of machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time detection of vacant parking spaces — a pioneering contribution to the field of smart urban systems. During the 2025-2026 academic year, she achieved significant milestones: publishing a paper in a Scopus-indexed international journal, presenting at three scientific conferences (two oral presentations), and winning the Best Poster Award at an international conference, earning broad recognition from the global scientific community. Alongside her research, she teaches at prestigious university programmes (Licence d'excellence and Master d'excellence), reflecting her deep commitment to knowledge transfer and the education of future engineers and researchers. Within IIEG's Academic Pole, Fatima-Zahrae Sotor bridges cutting-edge technological research and contemporary geopolitical challenges surrounding digitalisation and smart cities.