The browser you are using is not supported by this website. All versions of Internet Explorer are no longer supported, either by us or Microsoft (read more here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/windows/end-of-ie-support).

Please use a modern browser to fully experience our website, such as the newest versions of Edge, Chrome, Firefox or Safari etc.

Rami Zalfou Successfully Defends His PhD Thesis in Economic History on Syrian Economic Development and Migrant Integration

Portrait of Rami Zalfou holds his dissortation
Rami Zalfou. Foto: Linus Edlund.

CMES is proud to announce that CMES researcher, Rami Zalfou, PhD Candidate in Economic History, has successfully defended his doctoral dissertation at Lund University.

The defense took place on December 1, 2025.
Rami’s dissertation, titled:Borders and Pathways. Essays on Syrian Economic Development and Migrant Integration, explores economic development patterns, conflict, and demographic changes in the Middle East, with a particular focus on Syria and migrant integration.

The faculty opponent was Associate Professor Mohamed Saleh from the London School of Economics. Rami’s main supervisor has been CMES Board member, Professor Martin Dribe.

Rami holds a Master of Science in Economics from Birkbeck, University of London, and his research provides important insights into the interplay between economics and societal transformations in conflict-affected regions.

Congratulations to Rami on this significant achievement, and best wishes for his future endeavors!

The thesis is available to read and download here.

Left Martin Dribe, right Rami Zalfou
Left: Martin Dribe. Right: Rami Zalfou. Foto: Linus Edlund