Keynote Speaker

Dr Sherine El Taraboulsi McCarthy

Sherine is the Director of Impact and Change at the Start Network, a network of over 100 aid agencies across the world, working together to revolutionise the global humanitarian system. Prior to that, she was the founding Director of NatCen International, the global social policy arm of the National Centre for Social Research, Britian’s largest independent social research organisation. Earlier in her career, she was a Senior Research Fellow in Politics and Governance at ODI Global and a Politics Fellow at Keble College, University of Oxford. With over 20 years of experience across academia and policy, Sherine is widely regarded as an expert in humanitarian and development policy, conflict, security and evidence uptake with a focus on Africa, the Middle East and the United Kingdom. She holds a DPhil from the Department of International Development and St. Cross College at the University of Oxford. She also sits on the Board of Trustees of Protection Approaches, a UK charity dedicated to combatting identity-based violence in the UK and globally.

 

  • Keynote Speech: Why Evidence Matters for Human Security in the MENA Region
  • Time: 04.15 pm (UK Time)

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Key Information

  • Date: Wednesday 27th November 2024 
  • Time: 9.00 – 17.30 (GMT)
  • Hosts: The University of Birimingham and the Overseas Development Institute (ODI)
  • Venue: The Overseas Development Institute, 203 Blackfriars Rd, London SE1 8NJ, United Kingdom
  • Format: Hybrid (online and in-person)
  • Cost:The conference is free of charge. Refreshments and lunch will be provided for all in-person delegates. If you have any special access needs, please contact us.
  • Language: English. 
  • Audience: Academics, policymakers and influencers, practitioners and NGO/CSOs relevant to social policy in MENA. 
  • Registration: All conference participants are required to register using the registration link, including presenters, panel conveners, chairs and discussants. Non-presenting attendees are encouraged to register early as spaces were limited.  
    • Online Attendance: Participation in the conference sessions online via Zoom is open to everyone. Registration is required using the form below.
    • In-person Attendance: Participation in the conference sessions in person is by invitation only. If you are based in London and would like to attend the conference in person, please email us at info@menasp.com. Please note that places are limited and we cannot guarantee a spot.

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Conference Hosts

The University of Birmingham is a world-leading institution known for its groundbreaking research and academic excellence. Located in the heart of the UK, it offers a diverse and vibrant campus community, fostering innovation and global collaboration. With a rich history and a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges, the university provides an inspiring environment for students and researchers alike, driving positive change both locally and internationally.

 

The Overseas Development Institute (ODI) is a leading independent think tank focused on addressing global poverty and inequality through rigorous research and analysis. With a commitment to evidence-based policy solutions and fostering meaningful dialogue, ODI plays a crucial role in shaping development practices and advancing knowledge on pressing global issues. The institute is renowned for its expertise in facilitating collaboration among key stakeholders and driving impactful change through strategic partnerships and research excellence. Its involvement highlights a dedication to addressing complex challenges and promoting sustainable development outcomes worldwide.

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End of Project Report

The Middle East and North Africa Social Policy Network (MENASP) is pleased to announce the publication of its End-of-Project Report, marking the completion of a five-year initiative funded by the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) under the Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF).

The project, Strengthening Social Protection, Security and Welfare in the MENA Region, redefines approaches to conflict prevention by integrating social policy and social protection into peacebuilding strategies. It highlights how social grievances—such as precarious work, exclusion, and inequitable resource distribution—drive unrest, while emphasising the role of social policy in fostering cohesive communities and lasting peace.

This groundbreaking work examines critical questions on the interplay between social policy and conflict, identifies governance gaps, and proposes actionable solutions. By addressing community-level grievances and amplifying localised initiatives, the project showcases how social policy can provide effective pathways to peace.

This collaborative effort brought together partners from the UK, MENA, and beyond to deliver evidence-based insights into social policy governance in conflict settings.

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Download the Summary Download the Full Report

Information for In-person Attendees - Invitation Only

We are thrilled to have you join us for our conference! Your presence undoubtedly will enrich our event and we eagerly anticipate conitnuing having your valuable contributions.

 

Participation in the conference sessions in person is by invitation only. If you are based in London and would like to attend the conference in person, please email us at info@menasp.com. Please note that places are limited and we cannot guarantee a spot.

 

Conference Venue:

Overseas Development Institute

203 Blackfriars Rd

London SE1 8NJ

United Kingdom

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Register Now for In-person Attendence (By Invitation-Only)

Information for Online Attendees - Zoom

We are delighted to have you join us virtually for our conference! Your participation and insights undoubtedly will contribute to the success of our event.

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Register Now for Online Attendance (Open to all)

Partners

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GCRF-Network Plus Projects

Below is a list of our sister GCRF Network Plus projects funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) through the Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF).

 

 

The Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) is a £1.5 billion fund to support cutting-edge research that addresses the challenges faced by developing countries. GCRF addresses global challenges through disciplinary and interdisciplinary research, strengthens capability for research and innovation within both UK and developing countries and provides an agile response to emergencies and opportunities.

 

The ambition is to generate innovative solutions to intractable development issues and to identify practicable pathways to healthier and safer lives, sustainable development and prosperity for all, equal and effective education, social justice and human rights and stable institutions.

 

GCRF forms part of the UK’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) commitment, which is monitored by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

 

The Network Plus model facilitates the development of equitable partnerships between academics, NGOs, policymakers and practitioners in the Global North and South. It allows for integrated and crosscutting activities across disciplines and research organisations to address a set of integrated development challenges.

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