Introduction: Who is Moeed Yusuf?
Moeed Yusuf is a name that pops up when you talk about Pakistan’s political and strategic landscape. He’s a thinker, a scholar, and a policymaker who’s left a big mark on how Pakistan navigates its place in the world. From advising Prime Minister Imran Khan as the National Security Adviser (NSA) to shaping global discussions on South Asia, Moeed Yusuf’s journey is one worth exploring. Whether you’re curious about his role in Pakistan’s foreign policy or his academic work, this article dives into everything you need to know about Moeed Yusuf’s biography, his time as Pakistan’s former NSA, and what he’s up to in 2025.
Why does Moeed Yusuf matter? He’s not just another government official. His ideas on peace, security, and diplomacy have influenced Pakistan’s approach to tricky issues like India-Pakistan relations and ties with the United States. Let’s break down his story, step by step, in a way that’s easy to follow and packed with insights.
Early Life and Education: The Making of a Strategic Mind
Moeed Yusuf was born in Pakistan, though exact details about his birth date and place aren’t widely publicized. Growing up in a country with a complex political history, he developed a keen interest in understanding global affairs. His curiosity led him to pursue a top-notch education, both in Pakistan and abroad.
Yusuf earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad, one of Pakistan’s most respected institutions. He didn’t stop there. He went on to study at Boston University in the United States, where he earned a Ph.D. in Political Science. His time in the U.S. helped him understand global perspectives on security and diplomacy, which would later shape his career. Moeed Yusuf’s education gave him a strong foundation in analyzing complex issues, making him a go-to expert on South Asian politics.
His academic background isn’t just about degrees. It shows his ability to think critically and connect the dots between local and global challenges. This mix of Pakistani roots and international exposure set the stage for his impressive career.
Career Journey: From Scholar to Policy Expert
Moeed Yusuf’s career is like a bridge between the world of ideas and real-world action. Before stepping into the spotlight as Pakistan’s NSA, he built a reputation as a scholar and analyst. Early in his career, he co-founded Strategic and Economic Policy Research, a consultancy firm in Pakistan, in 2007. This was his first big step into shaping policy discussions.
Yusuf’s big break came when he joined the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) in Washington, D.C. As the Associate Vice President of the Asia Center at USIP, he worked on issues like conflict resolution and regional security in South Asia. His time at USIP wasn’t just about research—it was about building connections with global policymakers and sharing Pakistan’s perspective on the world stage. His work earned him respect as a sharp analyst who could explain complex issues in a clear way.
But Yusuf didn’t stay in the academic world forever. In 2019, he took on a bigger role, joining the government of Pakistan under Prime Minister Imran Khan. This move marked a turning point, as he went from studying policy to making it.
Role as National Security Adviser: A Game-Changer
In December 2019, Moeed Yusuf was appointed Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Security and Strategic Policy Planning. By May 2021, he was elevated to National Security Adviser, a role that made him one of Pakistan’s most influential figures. As NSA, Yusuf advised Imran Khan on everything from foreign policy to military strategy.
During his tenure (May 2021–April 2022), Yusuf focused on strengthening Pakistan’s global standing. He pushed for better crisis management mechanisms, especially with India, and worked to balance Pakistan’s relationships with major powers like the U.S. and China. One of his key initiatives was promoting economic security as a cornerstone of national security. He often said that a strong economy is just as important as a strong military—a bold idea in a country where security is often seen through a military lens.
Yusuf also played a big role in shaping Pakistan’s response to regional issues, like the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021. He called for diplomatic engagement with the Taliban to prevent instability, a stance that sparked both praise and debate. His time as NSA ended in April 2022 when Imran Khan’s government was ousted, but Yusuf left behind a legacy of bold ideas and a stronger National Security Division.
Views on Foreign Policy and National Security
Moeed Yusuf’s views on foreign policy are all about balance and pragmatism. He’s known for his clear-headed approach to Pakistan’s tricky relationships with India, Afghanistan, the U.S., and China. Let’s break it down:
- India-Pakistan Relations: Yusuf has always stressed the need for better crisis management between India and Pakistan. In 2025, he said the ongoing tensions could teach both countries to build stronger bilateral mechanisms to avoid conflict. He doesn’t see a full-scale war happening but warns that both sides need to be cautious to prevent small skirmishes from escalating.
- Afghanistan: As NSA, Yusuf pushed for dialogue with the Taliban to stabilize the region. He argued that isolating Afghanistan would lead to more problems, like terrorism and refugee crises. His views showed his focus on practical solutions over ideological battles.
- U.S. Relations: Yusuf worked to strengthen ties with the U.S., meeting with his counterpart Jake Sullivan in 2021 to discuss shared goals like peace in Afghanistan. He also called out the U.S. for limited engagement early in the Biden administration, showing his willingness to speak his mind.
- China: Yusuf supported Pakistan’s close ties with China, especially through projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He saw economic partnerships as a way to boost Pakistan’s stability.
One of his famous quotes sums up his approach: “We have to achieve economic stability in this messed up world.” This reflects his belief that security isn’t just about guns and borders—it’s about jobs, food, and prosperity.
Contributions to Academia and Research
Moeed Yusuf isn’t just a policymaker; he’s a scholar with a long list of publications. His books and research papers have shaped how people think about South Asia’s challenges. His most notable book, Brokering Peace in Nuclear Environments: U.S. Crisis Management in South Asia (Stanford University Press, 2018), explores how powerful countries like the U.S. can help manage tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors like India and Pakistan.
He’s also edited books like Pakistan’s Counterterrorism Challenge and Insurgency and Counterinsurgency in South Asia, which dive into the region’s security issues. These works are must-reads for anyone studying South Asian politics. Beyond writing, Yusuf has mentored students and young researchers, sharing his knowledge through teaching and speaking engagements.
Since leaving government, he’s taken on a new role as Vice Chancellor of Beaconhouse National University in Lahore. This shows his commitment to education and shaping the next generation of thinkers.
Public Image and Media Presence
Moeed Yusuf is no stranger to the spotlight. He’s known for staying calm and composed, even when faced with tough questions from journalists. His interviews with international media, like Al Jazeera and The Washington Post, have earned him praise for presenting Pakistan’s case clearly and confidently.
Yusuf is active on social media, especially Twitter (now X), where he shares his thoughts on policy and current events. His handle, @YusufMoeed, is a go-to for anyone following Pakistan’s political scene. In March 2025, he tweeted about being recognized as one of Pakistan’s Top 100 CEOs & Diplomats, showing he’s still a respected figure.
His public speaking is another strength. Whether addressing think tanks in the U.S. or conferences in Pakistan, Yusuf has a knack for explaining complex ideas in a way anyone can understand. He’s been called “imperturbable” for his cool-headed style, which makes him stand out in heated debates.
Criticism and Controversies
Like any public figure, Moeed Yusuf has faced criticism. During his time at USIP, some critics, like South Asia expert Christine Fair, raised concerns about his close ties to Pakistani officials, alleging he shared sensitive information. These claims were never proven, but they sparked debate about his role at a U.S.-based think tank.
As NSA, Yusuf faced scrutiny for his bold statements, like suggesting India wanted talks with Pakistan in 2020—a claim India denied. Some also criticized his handling of Pakistan’s stance on Afghanistan, accusing him of being too soft on the Taliban. However, Yusuf always defended his positions with facts and logic, earning respect even from those who disagreed.
He’s also been caught in Pakistan’s polarized political scene. Some accused him of being too loyal to Imran Khan, while others praised him for bringing a civilian perspective to a role often held by military figures. Through it all, Yusuf has stayed focused on his work, avoiding getting bogged down by criticism.
Current Role and Future Outlook
As of July 2025, Moeed Yusuf is the Vice Chancellor of Beaconhouse National University in Lahore. He’s shifted from policymaking to education, focusing on mentoring students and shaping Pakistan’s academic landscape. His recent recognition as one of Pakistan’s Top 100 CEOs & Diplomats shows he’s still a respected figure in 2025.
What’s next for Yusuf? He could return to government if the political climate shifts, especially if Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) regains power. Alternatively, he might continue in academia, writing more books or advising international organizations. His expertise makes him a strong candidate for roles in global diplomacy, perhaps with groups like the United Nations.
Yusuf’s story is far from over. His ability to blend scholarship, policy, and public engagement makes him a unique figure in Pakistan’s history. Whether he’s shaping minds in a classroom or advising world leaders, Moeed Yusuf is someone to watch.
Career Milestones: A Snapshot
| Year | Milestone | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Co-founded Strategic and Economic Policy Research | Started a consultancy firm in Pakistan to influence policy. |
| Pre-2019 | Associate Vice President, USIP Asia Center | Worked on South Asian security and conflict resolution. |
| 2019 | Special Assistant to PM Imran Khan | Began advising on national security and strategic policy. |
| 2021 | Appointed National Security Adviser | Served as NSA with federal minister status. |
| 2022 | Resigned as NSA | Left office after Imran Khan’s government fell. |
| 2025 | Vice Chancellor, Beaconhouse National University | Leading education and recognized as a top CEO/diplomat. |