Marwa Afifi

Economic Research Forum

The Economic Research Forum (ERF), established in 1993, encompasses a regional network of economists and is best known for producing research tackling MENA's most pressing economic challenges. ERF's core objectives of building a strong research capacity in the ERF region; leading and supporting the production of independent, high-quality economic research; and disseminating research to a wide and diverse audience are accomplished through an array of activities. These include mobilizing funds for well conceived proposals, managing carefully selected regional research initiatives, and providing training and mentoring programs to junior researchers. ERF also regularly organizes seminars and publishes working papers, books, policy briefs, a journal (the Middle East Development Journal) and a newsletter titled Forum. ERF is supported by multiple regional and international donors and boasts an extensive track record of initiating timely economic research for the sustainable development of MENA countries.