Martin Plaut

Martin Plaut is a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, part of the University of London’s School of Advanced Study. His research focuses on the Horn of Africa and Southern Africa, with expertise in migration, defense, and security issues.

• Education:
  • B.Soc.Sci. in Social Science, University of Cape Town (1975)
  • Honours in Industrial Relations, University of the Witwatersrand (1977)
  • MA in Industrial Relations, University of Warwick (1978)

His research bridges historical analysis and contemporary geopolitics, examining topics like postcolonial governance, media freedom, and conflict dynamics. Recent work explores cultural heritage preservation and diaspora politics.

Plaut’s career spans academia, journalism, and policy advising. He served as Africa editor for BBC World Service News (2003-2013) and has advised governmental bodies including the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the European Parliament.

He is affiliated with institutions such as Chatham House and the Royal African Society, and has held visiting positions including Writer in Residence at the University of Cape Town’s Centre for African Studies.