Dr. Hanan Morsy, the Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), has been honored with the International Economic Association (IEA) Fellow Award for 2024. This prestigious recognition celebrates her significant contributions to the field of economics and her dedication to advancing global development.
A Distinguished Career in Economics
Dr. Morsy has an extensive and distinguished career, with leadership roles at some of the world’s most influential financial institutions. She has worked with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Through her work, she has shaped policies that promote sustainable growth and economic stability across various regions.
As the Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist at UNECA, Dr. Morsy leads initiatives aimed at reducing inequality and fostering economic development throughout Africa. Her role involves advising governments on critical economic issues, including macroeconomic stability, fiscal policy, and private sector development.
A Vision for Global Development
Dr. Morsy’s work is grounded in a commitment to inclusive global development. Her focus is not just on theory but also on actionable policies that can drive real change. Through her leadership, UNECA has worked to ensure that every community has the opportunity to prosper.
She expressed her gratitude for receiving the award, stating, “This recognition would not be possible without the incredible colleagues and mentors I have worked with. Together, we are advancing global development to create a brighter future.”
Shaping Economic Policy on a Global Scale
Throughout her career, Dr. Morsy has been at the forefront of key economic policy discussions. At the African Development Bank, she served as the Director of Macroeconomic Policy, Forecasting, and Research, where she led teams that provided guidance on economic forecasting and research. Additionally, her tenure at the EBRD as Regional Lead Economist for the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean region allowed her to shape economic strategies that impacted nations in transition.
Dr. Morsy’s career at the IMF, spanning from 2003 to 2012, further enhanced her expertise. There, she worked across multiple departments, advising governments on monetary policy, fiscal reform, and financial stability.
Career of Impact and Thought Leadership
Dr. Morsy is not only a practitioner but also an accomplished researcher. Her academic interests include youth unemployment, inequality, and the impact of structural reforms on growth and productivity. She has published extensively on exchange rates, inflation, and financial crises. Her work has had a profound impact on how policymakers approach economic challenges in both developing and developed economies.
As an Associate Editor for the World Development Journal, she continues to contribute to global economic discourse. Dr. Morsy has also served on the Economic Policy Panel for Aberdeen and as a Trustee for the London Middle East Institute.
Academic Credentials and Achievements
Dr. Morsy holds a PhD in Economics from George Washington University, a Masters in Economics from the University of California, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Computer Science from the American University in Cairo. Her academic background, combined with her practical experience, makes her one of the most influential economists of her generation.
Leadership in Global Economic Development
The IEA Fellow Award is a testament to Dr. Morsy’s years of dedication to economic research and policy.”The challenges ahead are significant, but I remain optimistic,” Dr. Morsy said. “Together, we can continue to build systems that support inclusive growth and ensure that no one is left behind.”
As Dr. Morsy’s influence continues to grow, her leadership and vision will no doubt shape the future of global economic policy. Her work remains a guiding light for policymakers and economists alike.
