Call for Application: Bootcamp on Data Visualization and the use of Technological Tools in times of conflict

The Arab Reform Initiative (ARI) and the Robert Bosch Stiftung (RBSG) aim to jointly foster knowledge transfer for activists, journalists and researchers during a Bootcamp on Data Visualization and the use of Technological Tools in times of conflict. Our goal is to empower individuals to address environmental consequences of armed conflict, to promote accountability, and to share knowledge and expertise across the region for regional and international stakeholders.

The Context

Climate change has far-reaching impacts on the Middle East. Experts believe that the region’s future will be dramatically affected by changing climate conditions and extreme weather events, the scarcity of natural resources and ongoing environmental pollution caused by humans. Existing lines of conflict will be further exacerbated by these dynamics. At the same time, conflicts will result in long-term environmental damage, which is already evident in the region. In this context, ARI and RBSG are jointly organizing a full day bootcamp on remote sensing technology, the use of digital tools, data visualization in times of conflict, and the ethical use of this data in research and activism.

The bootcamp will be on the 25th of June 2025 in Amman, Jordan following our 2 days international conference “Crossroads of Crisis: Conflict, Climate, and the Environment in the MENA Region”, which will be held on the 23rd and 24th of June. Please note that ARI and RBSG will cover all your travel and hotel expenses in Amman for the duration of the conference and the bootcamp.

The bootcamp will include an overview of the different software that can be used to conduct remote sensing exercises and will in its second session feature interactive exercises that can be completed by participants. The bootcamp will be bilingual in Arabic and in English.

Objectives of the bootcamp sessions

To train a new generation of activists on the use of mapping exercises and interactive maps
To further the discussion on what tools can be used
To understand how to research, visualize and depict data and statistics about the impact of conflict on the environment.

The Bootcamp will explore questions, such as:

How to scientifically measure the impact of conflicts on the environment? What are the parameters one needs to look at?What are the digital tools and software that can be used?
How to use data/maps in advocacy work?What are the advantages of using technology and interactive maps for research, advocacy and generating data and how to reach out to policymakers and local communities?
How to read and interpret maps while conducting remote sensing work?
What are the limitations of GIS technology?
How can this knowledge be used for practical purposes, such as to push for litigation or to inform and to educate about the nexus of conflict and environment?
What are the existing mechanisms to create an observatory that produces real-life data on the conflict?

Eligibility:

We welcome applications from researchers, activists and practitioners from the Arab region (living in the region or in diaspora).

Applicants should fit the following description:

Early to mid-career researchers working on environmental issues in the MENA
Early to mid-individuals actively involved in the environmental movement in the MENA, whether as activists or through professional experience in local or international environmental organizations such as NGOs, universities, research centers…
Graduate students studying environmental issues in the MENA

Applicants should have a working knowledge of English and Arabic

To apply, please fill in this form.

Application Deadline is May 15

For any questions and inquiries please contact: Camille Mroue at c.mroue@arab-reform.net and Sarine Karajerjian at s.karajerjian@arab-reform.net

The two organizing Institutions

The Arab Reform Initiative is an independent Arab think tank working with expert partners in the Middle East and North Africa and beyond to articulate a home-grown agenda for democratic change and social justice. It conducts research and policy analysis and provides a platform for inspirational voices based on the principles of diversity, impartiality, and gender equality.

The German Robert Bosch Stiftung is active in the areas of health, education, and global issues. Through its funding, the Foundation works for a just and sustainable future. It is non-profit, independent and non-partisan. Its work is rooted in the legacy of Robert Bosch. The Team Peace as part of the Global Issues department has the goal to support societies affected by violent conflicts in their transformation toward sustainable peace.