New plan shapes debate around key global issues

Mass migration across Europe, destruction of heritage monuments in the Middle East, and violent extremism are among the issues the world is facing and which shape the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation’s five-year Strategic Plan.

Global events such as these challenge, contest and redefine traditional concepts of identity and belonging and underpin the multi-faceted research activities of the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation (ADI).

Professor Fethi Mansouri, ADI Director and the UNESCO Chair in Cultural Diversity and Social Justice, officially launched the Strategic Plan at a breakfast event today. 

Professor Mansouri explained that the Strategic Plan is an important step forward in the Institute’s vision to lead international scholarship, shape agendas, and inform debates.

“The Institute has led and shaped important debates on democratisation processes across the Arab world, the destruction of heritage across many countries in the Middle East, the political challenges faced in Iran and Iraq, the growing problem that is racism and now, increasingly, the politics of terrorism and countering violent extremism,” said Professor Mansouri.

Professor Mansouri, an expert on migration and citizenship, said these changes created challenges but also opportunities.

“Australia will soon welcome 12,000 refugees affected by the conflict in Syria and Iraq,” he said.

“Like many before them, they will face the challenge of settling into a new country and building a new life. We know many will be active contributors to the Australian economy and society.”