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Ferhat Polat

Ferhat Polat

Ferhat Polat

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

What hope is there for Libya's long-awaited elections?

New efforts to hold delayed elections offer a glimmer of hope to end Libya's deep political crisis. But the Libyan people remain sceptical, writes Ferhat Polat.

21 March, 2024

How Wagner's revolt could impact Russia's influence in Libya

Analysis: Wagner has been a critical tool for securing Russia's geostrategic interests in Libya, but the recent mutiny has cast doubts over the group's future operations in the country.

06 July, 2023

Hakan Fidan: From spymaster to Turkey's foreign minister

Analysis: The former intelligence chief's appointment has been seen as a signal of Turkey's intent to take a more assertive role in regional and global affairs.

12 June, 2023

The international community is perpetuating Libya's division

The international community's approach to Libya has been characterised by inconsistency and a lack of unity. It is crucial to have a practical roadmap for peace and unity in Libya rather than setting new election dates, writes Ferhat Polat.

23 February, 2022

Libya's election postponement: where do we go from here?

Libya will unlikely solve several key issues in time for the new election date set in January. Perhaps it is more prudent for Libyans and external actors to consider comprehensive actions rather than focusing on elections, writes Ferhat Polat.

29 December, 2021

Libyan elections: A way out of turmoil or a return to war?

To surmount internal and external divisions over Libya, there is an urgent need to find a general consensus on the constitution and the preparation regarding presidential and parliamentary elections, writes Ferhat Polat.

17 November, 2021