Beirut: The Office of Research at the American University of Beirut (AUB), in collaboration with Birzeit University and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), is set to host an international conference titled “Research in Crisis Settings: Challenges and Opportunities.” The event is scheduled to take place from Tuesday, September 23, to Friday, September 26, 2025, at West Hall on the AUB campus.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the three-and-a-half-day conference will gather representatives from over twenty countries. Participants will include scholars, practitioners, policymakers, civil society leaders, funding agencies, and creative professionals. The conference aims to explore the challenges and opportunities of conducting research in crisis contexts, focusing particularly on the Middle East and North Africa region and conflict-affected countries.
The event will feature Dr. Paul Salem, former president and CEO of the Middle East Institute, as the keynote speaker. High-level governmental participation is anticipated, adding significant weight to the discussions.
Additionally, the program will offer a guided tour of Beirut neighborhoods directly impacted by crises. Led by the AUB Neighborhood Initiative, this tour will provide participants with an immersive perspective on the realities that shape research priorities in such settings.
Sustainability is a core theme of the conference, with efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote social responsibility. Initiatives include eliminating paper waste through digital programs, offering locally sourced catering to reduce food miles, tracking and offsetting carbon footprints, and ensuring ethical procurement practices.
Registration for the conference is open until September 15, 2025, and media representatives are invited to attend and cover the event.