Fatih Birol Leads Influence in Global Energy Policy

(MENAFN) From a short-term contract at the International Energy Agency (IEA) in 1995 to becoming the executive director whom world leaders consult on energy matters, Fatih Birol has emerged as a key figure shaping global energy politics amid growing energy insecurity, geopolitical tensions, and the transition to cleaner energy sources, according to reports.

After spending two decades in various roles at the IEA, the Turkish energy economist has led the Paris-based organization since 2015. Under his leadership, the agency’s forecasts and scenarios influence investment decisions worth billions and its alerts can impact governments worldwide.

Born in Ankara in 1958 to a military doctor and a housewife, Birol recalls a childhood centered on family rather than ambition. His father, who came from modest beginnings, held multiple jobs to support the household. “We were known as the happy family,” Birol said. “Having your parents beside you gives a child confidence.” He grew up balancing school, family life, and playing football in the streets.

By his own admission, he was an average student. At Istanbul Technical University, where he studied electrical engineering against his father’s wish for him to become a doctor, he describes himself as “almost average.” The takeaway he emphasizes today is clear: academic excellence alone does not determine success. “If you love your work, you can succeed.”

For a period, Birol’s aspirations lay far from energy policy. He explored cinema, creating short films and working as an assistant director before moving to Vienna to attend film school.

Financial realities, however, intervened, leading him to take on manual work such as shoveling snow. “I realized that life was not as easy as it seemed – especially financially,” he said.

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