Charlie Gammell brings an expert and unique perspective to Middle Eastern and Afghan affairs, drawing from his extensive diplomatic and personal experiences across the region. A historian and former UK Foreign Office diplomat, Charlie’s insight into complex geopolitical issues is informed by his work on the Iran desk and his time negotiating in Afghanistan, where among other roles he served as an interpreter (Dari / Pashto) in high-stakes settings for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
His commentary, featured in publications like The Spectator, Afghan Analysts Network, New Statesman and the Daily Express, attracts a dedicated following and respect for his thought-provoking, accessible style.
Charlie's journey into this field began with a self-driven mission to become an expert on Middle Eastern and Afghan history, a path he forged with a combination of resilience and passion for languages and culture. He faced a challenging start but ultimately turned early struggles into an asset, developing an in-depth knowledge that sets him apart from many Western experts. His understanding of languages like Dari, Farsi and Pashto has been invaluable in his interactions, offering rare, culturally resonant insights into the conflicts and politics that shape these regions.
Beyond his diplomatic career, Charlie continues to advise businesses and organisations on Middle Eastern developments, bringing a nuanced understanding of the region’s political landscape, history, and social intricacies, informed by a network of contacts and former colleagues. A trusted voice, he has earned accolades from corporate audiences for his ability to translate complex issues into meaningful, often poignant narratives.
His debut novel, Thomas Hobbes and the Kabul Underground, merges satire with sincere reverence for Afghanistan’s unique spirit, presenting a fresh, satirical, hilarious and irreverent take on the thriller genre in which he wears his deep knowledge of the country lightly.
How can I book Charlie Gammell for my next event?
Email charlie.gammell@getapeptalk.com, or call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
PepTalk are the official speaking agents for Charlie Gammell available to book for corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity endorsements, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Charlie Gammell's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. For media interviews, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Charlie directly.
What topics does Charlie Gammell specialise in?
Charlie Gammell specialises in discussing Middle Eastern and Afghan affairs, diplomacy, historical and cultural insights and more.
What is Charlie Gammell's speaking style like?
Charlie Gammell delivers insightful commentary on Middle Eastern and Afghan affairs, blending expert knowledge with accessible narratives. His engaging style resonates with audiences, making complex issues relatable and thought-provoking.
Does Charlie Gammell offer virtual speaking engagements?
Yes, Charlie Gammell offers virtual speaker bookings for webinars, online conferences, and remote or distributed team engagements.