Dr. Shireen Hunter, born in Iran, is a distinguished scholar in international relations, known for her in-depth analyses of Middle Eastern politics, religion, and identity. Shireen Hunter completed her education at Tehran University, where she earned a bachelor’s and all-but-thesis for a doctorate in international law. She also holds an MSc in International Relations from the London School of Economics and completed her PhD in International Relations at the Graduate Institute of International Affairs and Development Studies in Geneva in 1993. Her academic journey, coupled with her experience in diplomacy, has established her as a leading expert on the complex dynamics between the Islamic world and the West.
Shireen Hunter’s career has been marked by significant roles in research and policy development. She began her journey in international affairs as a Diplomat in Iran's Foreign Service from 1965 to 1979, a role that helped shape her nuanced perspective on global politics. Later, at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C., she directed the Islam Program and served as Deputy Director of the Middle East Program, conducting influential research and analysis on regional issues. From 1993 to 1997, she was a Visiting Senior Fellow at the Centre for European Policy Studies in Brussels, where she directed the Mediterranean Program, focusing on Europe’s relations with the Middle East.
Shireen Hunter’s expertise encompasses critical areas of Middle Eastern studies, from identity politics in post-Soviet Azerbaijan to the ideological conflicts within Islam. Her academic appointments include positions at Georgetown University’s Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, where she held roles as a Visiting Professor, Research Professor, and Honorary Fellow, shaping the next generation of scholars in Islamic and international studies. Over her career, she has authored 16 books and numerous articles, contributing to the academic understanding of Middle Eastern geopolitics and religious dynamics.
In addition to her extensive publications, Shireen Hunter’s insight has been sought after globally through lectures, conferences, and media appearances. Her advisory work with organisations such as the Carnegie Corporation and the RAND Corporation highlights her commitment to using academic expertise to inform public policy.
Dr. Shireen Hunter is a pivotal figure in international relations scholarship. Her contributions to Middle Eastern studies, through her research, teaching, and advisory roles, reinforce her legacy as an insightful analyst and bridge-builder between diverse cultural and political landscapes.
