Natasha Hall
I am a senior associate (non-resident) with the Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, with 20 years of experience working in complex humanitarian emergencies and conflict settings across the Middle East. My recent work on Syria includes roles with CSIS, The Shaikh Group, GIZ, Mayday Rescue, the Centre for Civilians in Conflict, and the US Refugee Affairs Division. I have lived and worked in more than fifteen countries, focusing on conflict resolution, governance, displacement, environmental issues, resilience, and civilian protection. My reports have informed congressional hearings and donor responses.
As a director with Mayday Rescue, I collaborated with the White Helmets to strengthen civilian infrastructure and mitigate the impact of explosive weapons. I am a regular commentator for major international media and the founder of Art in Exile. I hold a master’s from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, a B.A. from the University of Virginia, and completed Fulbright and Boren fellowships in Jordan and Syria.
Who Are We ?
Karam Shaar Advisory is a New Zealand-based limited-liability consulting company. We focus on Syria’s economy and politics, covering topics ranging from macroeconomics, monetary economics, energy, aid, conflict economics, actor mapping, and sanctions. Our services are tailored to meet the needs of international organizations, governments, NGOs, and the private sector.
Led by Dr. Karam Shaar, who has over a decade of experience in the field, the stellar team has in-depth and unparalleled knowledge of the Syrian context, with skills ranging from economic and political research to data analysis, field assessment, KYC, OSINT, programming, and AI-driven analytics.
We know how to influence policy and produce quality research recognized and published by world-leading think tanks and media outlets. With a team spanning various control areas within Syria, Türkiye, Lebanon, New Zealand, the United States, France, and Germany, we never lose the connection to the ground and know first-hand the needs of those trying to empower Syrians abroad.