Deadline: 15 July 2025
SGRI Arabic 2025 is a residential course adapted from CREA’s globally recognized model, designed specifically for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA/SWANA) context. Hosted by the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship this intensive program brings together activists, scholars, and practitioners working at the intersections of sexuality, gender, and human rights. It offers a rigorous, participatory, and interdisciplinary space for critical learning, reflection, and strategic collaboration.
Institute Details
Dates: October 21-26, 2025
Venue: AUB Mediterraneo, Paphos, Cyprus
Daily Schedule: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Course Content
The Institute combines conceptual and theoretical study with regionally grounded case studies and participatory learning tools. The curriculum will be led by regional and international faculty and will address themes such as:
- The social construction of sexuality
- Sexuality, human rights, and legal systems in MENA/SWANA
- Gender, power, and cultural norms
- Freedom of expression and censorship in sexuality discourse
- Media, culture, and representation
- Anti-gender movements and human rights pushback
- Disability, sexuality, and inclusion
- Intersectionality in advocacy and rights-based work
- Case studies of program interventions and policy influence
Pedagogical Approach
SGRI Arabic 2025 is not a training or workshop. It centers on collective, experiential learning through:
- Classroom-based instruction
- Group work and simulation exercises
- Rights-based policy analysis and advocacy tools
- Film screenings and discussion
- Learning from the lived experiences of activists and practitioners
- Emphasis on linking theory to practice
Eligibility Criteria
We welcome applications from individuals based in/from and working on issues relevant to the MENA/SWANA region, including:
- Activists, organizers, researchers, and practitioners
- Individuals working on SRHR, GBV, disability rights, public health, or feminist organizing
- Individuals affiliated with feminist and human rights movements or community-based initiatives
Note:
- Full-time students are not eligible
- We encourage applications from structurally excluded groups
- Preference will be given to applicants embedded in local civil society efforts
Application Process
Applications must be submitted by July 15, 2025. Selection will be conducted on a rolling basis, so early submission is strongly encouraged. Only selected applicants will be contacted.
Fees and Scholarships
Registration Fee:
• USD 250 (mandatory for all selected participants)
Course Fees:
• USD 2000 – for participants affiliated with INGOs or donor agencies
• USD 1000 – subsidized rate for participants from the Global South
Fees cover: tuition, resource materials, and shared accommodation (breakfast included).
Fees do not cover: travel costs, visas, lunches, dinners, or local transportation.
Scholarships:
A number of need-based scholarships are available.
Scholarships may include:
- Full scholarship (tuition, materials, accommodation)
- Partial scholarship (covers USD 500; participant contributes USD 500)
- Contribution scholarship (covers USD 300; participant contributes USD 700)
Scholarships do not cover international travel, visa fees, or dinners. All scholarship recipients must still pay the USD 250 registration fee.
Travel and Visa:
Participants are responsible for arranging and covering travel, visa, and travel health insurance costs. The Asfari Institute and CREA will provide visa support documentation upon acceptance. All participants must purchase health insurance covering the full Institute duration.
Language:
The Institute will be conducted in Arabic and English; hence comprehension of both languages is strongly recommended. Live translation will only be provided for these two languages.
Accessibility:
We are committed to making the Institute accessible and will provide reasonable accommodations for participants with disabilities.
Contact Information:
For questions or support with the application process, please contact: asfariinst@aub.edu.lb