Promote diplomatic dialogue and international mediation

In today's era of geopolitical turbulence and the erosion of multilateralism, a structured and effective diplomatic dialogue is more necessary than ever. Switzerland plays an important role as a neutral mediator and maintains a tradition of promoting constructive engagement in international affairs.

In this context, Kemal Mohamedou, who recently completed his MSc in International Public Policy at University College London (UCL), dedicated his work to further developing the methods of "Track 2 diplomacy." His research project, "Evaluating and Improving Methods for Promoting Dialogue," at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP), aims to evaluate and refine approaches to diplomatic mediation in a time of increasing global polarization.

Diplomacy in the cradle

Kemal Mohamedou grew up in an environment characterized by international experiences on three continents and was shaped by the intersection of cultures, perspectives, and disciplines that define modern diplomacy. He is fluent in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic. His multilingualism has always facilitated his interactions with world leaders, policymakers, academics, journalists, and global thought leaders. His academic path took him from King's College London—where he graduated with honors in International Relations from the Department of War Studies—to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), as part of the UCEAP study abroad program. At UCL, he ultimately earned a Master's degree in International Public Policy. During his studies, he deepened his knowledge in the areas of international negotiations, policy implementation, and conflict resolution.

Beyond academic activity

Outside of his academic studies, he was also involved in global security, diplomacy, and international politics: he gained experience at renowned institutions such as Chatham House, GCSP, the UCLA Burkle Center for International Relations, the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Switzerland Foundation, FIBA, and the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA), where he participated in policy analysis, research projects, and strategic communication.

In addition to his academic and professional activities, Kemal Mohamedou contributed to research and discourse. His bachelor's thesis on the role of the Wagner Group in Russian foreign policy in sub-Saharan Africa was published in the GCSP Geneva Papers series. His master's thesis on the changing role of FIFA in international diplomacy was included as a reference source in the FIFA Museum Library in Zurich.

Broad research interests

His interests include topics such as sports diplomacy, authoritarianism and security governance and reflect a strong understanding of how power functions in various global spheres.

Using a mixed-methods approach that includes interviews, surveys, and comparative case studies, he is working to develop innovative strategies to improve the effectiveness of diplomatic initiatives. His research at the GCSP specifically examines the impact of key "Track 2 diplomacy" efforts, including:

• The US-Russia Dialogue on Syria: an important and timely "Track 2 series" that facilitates exchanges between key American and Russian experts.
• The P5 Expert Roundtable on Nuclear Risk Reduction: an initiative aimed at discussing nuclear risk reduction measures among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
• The High North Talks, which address growing geopolitical tensions in the Arctic through cooperation on security and the environment.
• The Eastern Mediterranean Initiative: A Regional Track 2 Dialogue to Promote Conflict Resolution and Regional Cooperation. This research project is not only an intellectual but also a deeply personal endeavor. It is inspired by the legacy of his late father, Professor Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamedou, himself a renowned intellectual and former diplomat.

Continuing the family legacy and the Swiss tradition of neutrality and peacebuilding

Kemal Mohamedou sees his work as part of a broader mission to continue his father's legacy by strengthening diplomatic mediation and promoting trust in international relations. His goal is to contribute to Switzerland's diplomatic efforts within the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and to strengthen Switzerland's role as a key player in global peacebuilding.

At a time when international relations are becoming increasingly militarized and democratic spaces are being eroded by authoritarian tendencies, the ability to foster meaningful dialogue remains one of the most powerful tools of global diplomacy. The role of institutions like the GCSP in preserving spaces for open dialogue is therefore more important than ever. Through his research, Kemal Mohamedou is committed to ensuring that the principles of diplomacy and mediation continue to flourish by adapting them to current challenges while remaining anchored in Switzerland's long-standing tradition of neutrality and peacebuilding.