Trends Research and Advisory and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance(DCAF) discuss opportunities for research collaboration

Trends Research and Advisory researchers and experts met with researchers from the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) in Geneva, Switzerland. The two sides reviewed ways to enhance cooperation in the fields of research, exchange of information and experiences, joint projects, and conferences and seminars.

Panellists on the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance side included Ms. Anne Grobet, Deputy Head of the Middle East and North Africa division, and Ms. Robritta Maggie from the Center’s Operations Division of the Middle East and North Africa.

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of Trends Research and Advisory, said that this panel discussion is an important step in enhancing cooperation between the two centers and exchanging experiences. He indicated that Trends has extensive experience in the field of research, and seeks to cooperate with leading international institutions, such as the Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance.

Anne Grobet, GCSSG Deputy Head of the Middle East and North Africa division, said that the Swiss Center seeks to strengthen cooperation with regional and international institutions, including Trends Research and Advisory. She said that the Geneva-based Center has extensive experience in the field of security sector governance. She welcomed research cooperation with Trends in the implementation of joint projects, and holding of joint conferences and seminars that address these issues.

The panel discussion stressed the significance of think tanks in anticipating events. The discussion highlighted the importance of exchanging experiences. The contributors agreed on the need to continue communication and draft an action plan for joint cooperation. This would include conduct of research, exchange of experiences and information, implementation of joint projects, holding conferences and seminars, and mutual publishing of research and studies.

The Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance is an intergovernmental think tank established in 2000. It focuses on strengthening security sector governance and reform around the world.

Earlier in the day, Trends Research and Advisory held a similar dialogue with the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP). The meeting is part of of a series of dialogues with about six international research centers and institutions in Geneva.