The Middle East, scarred by years of political instability and economic upheaval, finds itself at a critical juncture. The crises in Syria and Lebanon lay bare the region’s fragility in stark terms. Yet, within this profound crisis lies a unique opportunity to rebuild the Middle East anew. “As a first step, we propose a brainstorming summit in Istanbul in February 2025.” (Photo: AA)
By Mehmet Öğütçü and Rainer Geiger
The Middle East, scarred by years of political instability and economic upheaval, finds itself at a critical juncture. The crises in Syria and Lebanon lay bare the region’s fragility in stark terms. Yet, within this profound crisis lies a unique opportunity to rebuild the Middle East anew.
No single country can shoulder this immense task alone. The reconstruction cost for Syria alone exceeds $250 billion, not to mention the immense responsibility of restructuring state institutions, reviving the economy, and managing resources effectively.
The time to act is now—without delay.
During our senior executive roles at the OECD, we played a pivotal role in establishing the Stability Pact for Southeast Europe in the aftermath of Yugoslavia’s disintegration. Over the years, we have designed and implemented governance and investment programs across the Middle East and North Africa, drawing on these efforts to collaborate on similar OECD initiatives in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
These experiences have taught us one essential truth: successful stability initiatives are not imposed from outside but are shaped through the leadership, regional collaboration, and international support of the countries themselves.
Today, the Middle East—particularly Syria and Lebanon—urgently requires such cooperation more than ever.
The imperative for action
The current state of the region is dire. Countries like Syria and Lebanon face shattered infrastructure, displaced populations, and economic collapse. They desperately need governance systems capable of delivering lasting peace and stability.
This is not just a regional problem; it is a global challenge with far-reaching implications for security, migration, and energy markets. Addressing these challenges and preventing further destabilization necessitates a bold vision: the creation of a Middle East Stability and Reconstruction Pact.
This ambitious and forward-looking initiative will provide the framework to rebuild the region while securing its long-term stability, peace, and prosperity.
A framework for stability and reconstruction
This Pact will rest on four foundational pillars, adaptable over time to the region’s evolving needs:
- Governance Reform: Transparent and accountable governance is the cornerstone of reconstruction. Building institutions that uphold the rule of law, support democratic processes, and combat corruption is vital to restoring trust.
- Economic Revival: The region’s overdependence on oil has made its economies vulnerable to shocks. Diversifying these economies is essential for long-term stability. Investments in renewable energy, technology, and infrastructure will create jobs and foster sustainable growth.
- Rebuilding Infrastructure: Reviving critical sectors such as energy, healthcare, education, and transportation is essential not only for societal recovery but also for economic rejuvenation.
- Social Cohesion: Years of conflict have eroded social bonds. Restoring these is critical for lasting peace. Initiatives for reconciliation, refugee reintegration, and inclusive social dialogue must be central to the reconstruction process.
Multilateral cooperation and Istanbul’s role
The success of the Pact depends on genuine and robust collaboration among regional and international stakeholders. Regional powers such as Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE must take leading roles, leveraging their unique strengths. At the same time, global actors such as the US, the UK, the EU, China, and Russia should provide the necessary support.
As a first step, we propose a brainstorming summit in Istanbul in February 2025. This meeting would establish the principles, coordination mechanisms, and preliminary agreements needed to lay the foundation for the Pact.
This initiative will not only contribute to the reconstruction of the Middle East but will also serve as a turning point for global peace and prosperity.
Time to act
The moment to act is now.
As in the past, Türkiye must once again assume a pioneering role in ensuring stability, peace, security, and reconstruction—particularly in Syria and Lebanon, and potentially in other Middle Eastern nations that express interest. Working in partnership with other supporting nations, Türkiye’s proactive engagement will be instrumental in driving this transformative vision for the region forward.
