Dear Friends,
It is a joy and honour to be writing the foreword of the Autumn 2020 newsletter as the new Network Manager. I have received such a warm welcome, and I am so inspired by the commitment to ensuring that this network continues to provide a space for collaboration, sharing key news and events and brings new research into this sphere.
We all continue to face extremely challenging times of financial, social and physical strains and the longevity of the pandemic kicks in. However, we also face a time of opportunity, where we are more globally connected through virtual meetings and share a common challenge and, significantly, a time where Social Policy is central to discussions in government, academic and civil society at large. Our hope is that this network can help use this opportunity to fortify engagement with social policy research and policy-making in MENA and beyond, sharing lessons within and outside of the region, so that all, especially the vulnerable, are protected as we strive towards more inclusive development and recovery.
One of the ways the Network is doing this is through the virtual launch of a new project: Strengthening Security and Social Welfare in the MENA region, on the 2nd December 2020 which we would love you to attend. Read on for details on the launch as well as more news of recent publications, guest blogs and upcoming events and previous events including virtual policy labs and the socialprotection.org 5th Anniversary conference.
This is a shared space for all, we want every member to feel valued and have a clear sense of ownership. With this in mind, there are many ways to get involved: joining our experts’ database, blog-writing, sharing your recent publications, inviting others to join the conversation and telling everyone about upcoming career opportunities, events and calls for funding.
Finally, thank you for your continued support and engagement. As always, we are eager to learn from each other, so do share your feedback with us on the network.
Wishing you all the best and stay safe,
Olivia
Project Manager