Major new institute on civil society and citizenship in Arab region to ...

Funded by a $10m grant from the Asfari Foundation, the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship will advance research and other initiatives to support the development of an informed citizenry engaged at all levels of Arab associational life and promote openness, transparency, and accountability in the region.

Both the Foundation and AUB recognize that the Arab world is undergoing significant change, and they intend that the work of the Asfari Institute will make a unique and valuable contribution to progress in the region during this era of historic transition and beyond.

The president of AUB, Peter Dorman, said, "This is a most significant and timely initiative. Many areas of the Arab world are going through unprecedented transitions with unpredictable outcomes. The Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship will be at the forefront of discussions related to changes taking place in the Arab world, bringing together leading experts from every sector to engage in dialogue, conduct research and propose innovative ways forward on the most pressing issues. We are very grateful to the Asfari Foundation for its visionary leadership and partnership."

Ayman Asfari, chairman of the Asfari Foundation, said, "Across the Arab world, we are witnessing citizens who want to participate in creating open and just societies. New models and innovative thinking are required to address the unique needs of civil society in the region. As the most highly-respected university of the Arab region, AUB is the ideal institution to host the Asfari Institute."

The Asfari Institute will generate evidence-based research, disseminate findings and make policy and practice recommendations. It will provide education and training to promote active citizenship and effective civil society, promote civil society and civic engagement in the region, and stimulate dialogue on related subjects.

Located at AUB in Beirut, the Asfari Institute will draw upon the wealth of expertise and resources of the University, and act as a hub in the region, drawing expertise from academics, practitioners, policymakers, and members of the general public. An international search will begin immediately to recruit the founding director.

Source: http://www.ameinfo.com/major-institute-civil-society-citizenship-arab-319466

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