Dr. Istaiteyeh presented on “Refugees and their economic integration in Jordan” at the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, in partnership with Fulbright Jordan, the Jordan Language Academy, and the U.S. Embassy Jordan, hosted a week-long, interactive seminar exploring the topic of refugees and migration within Jordan. Participants discussed complex issues surrounding refugees and migration through interactive workshops, expert-led discussions, site visits, and community engagement activities during July/2023. Among the lectures was one by our partner university, The Hashemite University(HU) in Jordan, presented by Dr.Rasha Istaiteyeh. She gave a presentation on Refugees and Economic Integration in Host Countries: The Case of Jordan.
Refugees and migrants often face unique socio-economic challenges when integrating into host countries. Economic integration is crucial for their self-sufficiency and self-reliance. Dr. Istaiteyeh's lecture covered various aspects including policies, programs, and initiatives aimed at facilitating economic integration, including the practical steps taken by different countries to support Syrian refugees in their pursuit of stable livelihoods. Furthermore, examining challenges such as employment opportunities, legal hurdles, can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the obstacles faced by displaced populations. This awareness is essential for creating targeted interventions and policies that address these issues effectively.
The inclusion of a lecture on returning refugees to their home countries, in this case, Syrians returning to Syria, reflects the complexity of the situation. It's important to acknowledge that returning home might not be a straightforward solution due to ongoing conflicts, security concerns, and the need for sustainable reintegration.
Overall, seminars and lectures like the Gilman /Fulbright not only educate participants about the intricacies of refugee and migration issues but also create a network of individuals with diverse perspectives and expertise making investments in educational opportunities that can help to improve the lives of migrants and refugees.