The American University of Beirut’s Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs was inaugurated in
2006 to serve as an independent, research-based,
and policy-oriented institute with the aim of initiating, developing, and communicating policy-relevant research from and about Lebanon and the region, contributing
to the realms of both academia and policymaking. Treading the sensitive interface between research and “real” politics, the institute navigates the often-arduous process of dialogue between experts and policymakers, integrating the constraints of real-time policymaking
and the intricacies of governmental, inter-agency work. More importantly, it has made large and successful contributions to the shaping of research agendas and has introduced local and international stakeholders to novel and innovative ways of thinking and understanding the world’s problems.
Forming a bridge between academia and policymaking, the institute’s central mission is threefold:
- conduct and disseminate high-quality research on
the complex issues, problems, and challenges faced
by Lebanon and the Arab world within rapidly shifting global contexts
- generate research and evidence-based policy
recommendations to address local and regional
challenges
- create a space for interdisciplinary dialogue, engagement, and exchange of ideas among various
stakeholders
The Institute recognizes its potential to act as a strong think tank given its geographical location and presence in one of the most prominent academic institutions in the region, that of the American University of Beirut. It has access to a vast pool of scholars, professionals, departments, centers, and research-generating groups, thereby allowing it to swiftly navigate, coordinate, and lead on novel projects and dialogues that impact and inform public policy. In addition, it has extensive experience in designing and implementing competitive calls, managing research programs, projects, and grants with a funding magnitude of up to USD 1.2 million. The Institute monitors the delivery of results to ensure that outcomes meet professional standards and has established dynamic partnerships with civil society organizations, donors, local and international research institutes, public ministries, renowned scholars, prominent media outlets, and AUB faculties, departments, and centers. This is partly reflected in the initiation of MOUs with various partners.
Clusters
The institute’s wide array of expertise in issues related to climate change, sustainable development, refugees and displacement, local and regional politics, political economy, women, peace, and security, among other important subjects, has laid the foundations for promoting a cluster approach to realizing its mission and objectives. It continuously seeks to spearhead and partake in projects and initiatives that are multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary in focus. Currently, the institute’s work revolves around three interconnected clusters of focus: