Howard J. Shatz

Howard J. Shatz is a Senior Economist at the RAND Corporation and Professor of Policy Analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy. He specializes in international economics, economic development, and the intersection of economics with national security. His research spans global regions including East Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and developing countries, with a focus on U.S. strategic competition, post-conflict reconstruction, and terrorist financing.

• Ph.D. in Public Policy, Harvard University
• Senior Economist, RAND Corporation
• Professor of Policy Analysis, RAND School of Public Policy
• Former Senior Economist, U.S. President's Council of Economic Advisers (2007–2008)
• Research Fellow, Public Policy Institute of California
• Research Fellow, Brookings Institution and Federal Reserve Board
• Consultant, World Bank

Shatz’s research interests center on international economic relations, trade, labor markets, exchange rates, and the economic dimensions of security. He has led studies on U.S.-China economic competition, the financial operations of the Islamic State, and post-war reconstruction in Ukraine. His work combines rigorous economic analysis with policy relevance, often addressing high-stakes geopolitical challenges.

His recent publications reflect a strong focus on great power competition, economic statecraft, and conflict-affected economies. Themes include U.S.-China strategic rivalry, Russia’s war in Ukraine, Middle East security, and private-sector development in Iraq and Saudi Arabia. He frequently contributes policy commentary on global economic risks and security issues.

Scientific Recognition and Engagement:

• Regular media commentator on international economics and security
• Advisor and consultant to governments and international institutions
• Author of numerous RAND reports, journal articles, and book chapters
• Speaker at high-level policy forums, including on U.S. international economic strategy

Shatz has advised on socioeconomic policy in Israel, Mongolia, and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. His work on terrorist financing, particularly of al-Qa’ida in Iraq and the Islamic State, has provided critical insights into how extremist groups sustain themselves financially. He has not advised formal students, but his research has shaped policy and academic discourse globally.

He is affiliated with RAND’s research teams on global security, defense policy, and international development. His projects often involve interdisciplinary collaboration with security experts, regional specialists, and data scientists. Future work is expected to continue exploring the economic dimensions of geopolitical competition and conflict resilience.