Debrief with UNHCR
Meeting with Rt Hon. Andrew Mitchell MP
Dr Sandra Pertek met with Rt Hon. Andrew Mitchell MP, former UK Minister, to discuss the UKRI- funded research project: “Making Aid Work for Displaced Women: Integrating Islamic Philanthropy and the International Humanitarian System”. She addressed humanitarian issues related to displaced women in Muslim-majority countries and the need to prioritise their protection in policy responses. Dr Pertek also shared key policy briefs underpinning the research.
Engagement at Doha-Based Conference on Research and Practice
Dr Sandra Pertek engaged with the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies and Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities of the State of Qatar at their conference, ‘Towards Effective Integration of Research and Practice’. She spoke in the panel on bridging the research, policy, and practice divide to advance global displacement responses.
Contemporary Discussions on Philanthropy Symposium
Dr Sandra Pertek attended the Contemporary Discussions on Philanthropy Symposium in Istanbul, hosted by the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative, Indiana University. She presented the methodology of the “Making Aid Work for Displaced Women” project and connected with experts in Islamic philanthropy, gender, and SDGs.
Panel on Faith-Sensitive MHPSS and Gender in Humanitarian Contexts
Dr Sandra Pertek spoke at the Integrating Faith into MHPSS conference on 19th September, as part of the panel on Faith-Sensitive Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and Gender. The online conference was hosted by the University of Zurich and the Joint Learning Initiative on Faith and Local Communities.
Pilot Module Collaboration with Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies
Dr Sandra Pertek collaborated with the Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies (University of Geneva) in the pilot module, "Navigating the Complexities of Sexual Violence, Transactional Sex and Forced Migration: Research and Practice." She delivered a lecture on forced migration and SGBV (Sexual and Gender-Based Violence).
Moderating High-Level Panel at UNGA 79th Session
Dr Sandra Pertek moderated a high-level panel discussion on Conflict, Displacement, Refugees, and Women’s Health during the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The session brought together senior leaders from KSRelief, UNFPA, UNHCR, IOM, WHO, and IMC to discuss placing displaced women at the heart of humanitarian aid to prioritise their health and wellbeing. The conversation focused on the need for diverse partnerships to address the intersecting needs of women and girls in displacement.