CONFERENCE
Re-Imagining Citizenship
in the Arab Region
Explore key challenges in citizenship in the Arab region through the lenses of governance, reforms and developments, education, and the status of refugees, migrants, and stateless persons.
September 5-6, 2026
American University of Beirut
Beirut, Lebanon
Background
Citizenship in the Arab region is undergoing a profound reassessment amid widespread societal transformations. Traditional models of citizenship are increasingly being questioned due to governance reform and modernization efforts, economic development, widespread movement, and increased awareness and involvement due to social media and artificial intelligence. The lived experiences of several groups—such as refugees, women, and youth—are reshaping conceptions of belonging, engagement, and community. These shifts call for a critical examination of the assumptions and structures that have long underpinned citizenship in the Arab world.
In response to this evolving context, In response to these developments, the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship and the Department of Political Studies and Public Administration at the American University of Beirut (AUB), in partnership with the School of Public Affairs at American University (AU), the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), and Public Management Research Association (PMRA), is convening the Re-Imagining Citizenship in the Arab Region Conference on September 5–6, 2026 at the American University of Beirut.
The conference aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue among scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and regional experts. Participants will engage critically with current trends and challenges and will explore alternative models and pathways for constructing more effective models of citizenship that reflect contemporary realities.
In addition to thematic panel discussions, the program includes two complementary events:
- The Leadership Forum on Public Affairs Education (September 7, 2026 – by invitation only)
- The Academic Publishing Workshop on Public Management in the Middle East (September 4, 2026 – separate application required)
Conference Themes
Governance and Engagement
This theme addresses the critical role of citizen participation in enhancing governance systems across the MENA region. Discussions will focus on innovative models of engagement, and the role of citizens, as groups or individuals, in contributing to the public good and strengthening the public sector.
Reforms and Developments
Many countries in the MENA region have undergone or are considering reforms in response to the changing needs and realities. This theme will examine the models of reforms and developments that best suit the changing landscape and avoid the pitfalls experienced in similar circumstances worldwide.
Education and Active Citizenship
With youth comprising a significant portion of the region’s population, this theme explores the potential of education to cultivate civic values and raise awareness. It will consider both formal curricula and informal learning spaces, and how they can support building citizenship of today.
Refugees, Migrants, and Displaced Persons
MENA is one of the most affected regions by displacement due to conflict, economic instability, and environmental pressures. This theme will address how these populations access services, interact with local communities and engage in civic life, and how host countries and community actors can play a constructive role in promoting social cohesion.
Registration Fees
Early Bird (before March 1, 2026): $150
Standard Rate (before April 15, 2026): $200
Student Rate (before April 15, 2026): $100
Travel Grants
A limited number of needs-based travel grants are available for selected participants from the region.
Call for Papers
We invite submissions of research papers or reports that explore key themes related to citizenship, including, but not limited to, governance, education, reforms and developments, and the status of refugees and migrants in the Arab region.
Submission closed.
Important Dates
Deadline for
Call for Papers
Closed
Notification of
Acceptance
Notified
Registration
Deadline
April 15, 2026
Contact us
For any inquiries, please reach out to us at asfariinst@aub.edu.lb.
