GMF’s Eastern Mediterranean Energy Project addresses the political and economic implications, risks and opportunities of the recent energy discoveries in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Major discoveries of natural gas off the shores of Israel and Cyprus - and potentially elsewhere - could bring to the region the benefits of energy security, economic gains, and a cleaner environment. But the region’s energy choices are fraught with political risks and policy dilemmas.

The project aims to promote the conditions for the peaceful development of the new energy opportunities in the Eastern Mediterranean and to promote regional cooperation on energy issues. The project aims to encourage political, diplomatic, business and civil-society initiatives in favour of these goals.

Drawing on its experience in working together with governments and civil society bodies in the region, GMF is carrying forward a program of in-depth research, workshops, convening, and civil society cooperation. The current phase of the project builds on the work carried out in 2012, including an initial series of policy briefs and high-level political discussions that have strengthened communication among stakeholders and generated policy recommendations.

GMF will intensify this program over the period 2012-2014 through the involvement of new partners, a deepening of research and convening activities, and the development of practical recommendations for increasing cooperation and reducing the political risks associated with the Eastern Mediterranean energy sector.

For more information please contact Charlotte Brandsma at cbrandsma@gmfus.org.