University of Sharjah Participates in International Conference on Sustainable Migration and Women’s Mobility

Reaffirming its commitment to supporting scientific research, promoting intercultural dialogue, and empowering women, the University of Sharjah participated in the international conference “Sustainable Migration: Women on the Move,” organized by the National University of Malaysia (UKM) with support from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from July 25 to 28, 2026.

The conference brought together a distinguished group of academics, researchers, practitioners, students, and representatives of civil society organizations from the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Malaysia, Germany, India, and the Philippines. Participants exchanged knowledge and perspectives on issues affecting migrant, refugee, and displaced women, discussed the challenges they face, and explored best practices for empowering them and promoting their integration into society.

The University of Sharjah delegation was led by Dr. Ayat Nashwan, project director and associate professor in the Department of Sociology at the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. She was accompanied by Dr. Moza Al Suwaidi, administrative officer at the Office of International Relations, as well as students Sarah Al Yassi, Naema Al Obaidli, Hessa Al Ali, and Hanan Abed, who actively participated in the conference’s academic sessions and cultural activities.

The conference was organized through collaboration between the National University of Malaysia and several partner universities, with support from DAAD. It brought together participants from academic, professional, and civil society sectors to discuss various dimensions of sustainable migration and to highlight the experiences, challenges, and opportunities associated with women’s cross-border mobility.

The event commenced with a welcoming address delivered by Professor Siti Daud, followed by a diverse academic program that included interactive sessions designed to encourage interdisciplinary dialogue and cultural exchange among participants.

The conference addressed sustainable migration through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and collaborative workshops focusing on several key themes, including women’s resilience, leadership, education, social integration, health care, employment, climate change, human rights, and the role of community institutions in supporting migrant, refugee, and displaced women.

The program also featured keynote presentations on the voices and representation of migrant women in Sabah’s palm oil sector in Malaysia. In addition, Dr. Sushila Balasundaram from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) delivered a presentation highlighting examples of resilience and leadership among refugee women in Malaysia.

A dedicated civil society dialogue session brought together representatives from organizations in the Philippines, Jordan, and India, alongside international initiatives focused on social protection. Participants shared their experiences in empowering internally displaced women, advancing transitional justice, and developing social protection systems that support the sustainable inclusion of refugee women.

Alongside the academic program, delegates participated in professional networking events and cultural activities showcasing Malaysia’s rich heritage. These included visits to the Malaysian Handicraft Complex and several cultural and historical landmarks in Kuala Lumpur, providing valuable opportunities for cultural exchange and the development of sustainable academic and professional partnerships.

The conference concluded with a review of its key outcomes and discussions on future directions for strengthening international cooperation in research, education, and community engagement. These efforts aim to support joint initiatives and expand academic partnerships. The conference was held within the framework of the ongoing partnership with DAAD, reflecting the University of Sharjah’s commitment to impactful research, international academic collaboration, and contribution to the vision of the UAE in the areas of innovation, intercultural dialogue, and sustainable development.