S. Akbar Zaidi is a renowned Pakistani political economist, academic, and author, celebrated for his profound contributions to the study of South Asia’s political economy. With a career spanning over three decades, he has established himself as a leading authority on Pakistan’s economic, social, and political transformations. Zaidi’s work is characterized by its critical analysis and interdisciplinary approach, bridging the fields of economics, history, and social sciences.

He has held prestigious academic positions at institutions such as Columbia University, the University of Oxford, and Johns Hopkins University. Currently, he serves as the Executive Director of the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) in Karachi. Zaidi’s research interests include development, governance, and the interplay between society and economy, with a particular focus on South Asia.

As a prolific writer, Zaidi has authored numerous books and over seventy-five academic articles. His publications, such as Military, Civil Society and Democratization in Pakistan and Pakistan’s Economic and Social Development, are widely regarded as essential readings for understanding the region’s complexities. His work continues to influence scholars, policymakers, and students worldwide, making him a pivotal figure in the study of South Asia’s political economy.