NNA - The Office of Research at the American University of Beirut (AUB), in collaboration with Birzeit University and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), will host an international conference titled Research in Crisis Settings: Challenges and Opportunities, which will take place from Tuesday, September 23, to Friday, September 26, 2025, at West Hall on the AUB campus.

The three-and-a-half-day conference will bring together representatives from more than twenty countries—including scholars, practitioners, policymakers, civil society leaders, funding agencies, and creative professionals—to examine the challenges and opportunities of conducting research in crisis contexts, with a particular focus on the Middle East and North Africa region and conflict-affected countries.

The conference will feature Dr. Paul Salem, former president and CEO of the Middle East Institute, as keynote speaker. High-level governmental participation is expected.

The program will also include a guided tour of Beirut neighborhoods directly impacted by crises, led by the AUB Neighborhood Initiative, offering participants an immersive perspective on the realities shaping research priorities.

Placing sustainability at its core, the conference is designed to minimize environmental impact and promote social responsibility—from eliminating paper waste through digital programs to offering locally sourced catering that reduces food miles, alongside active carbon footprint tracking, offsetting measures, and ethical procurement practices.

Registration is open until September 15, 2025.

Media representatives are invited to attend and cover the event.