International Arab Institute for Peace and Education

About the Committee The Committee for Sustainable Development Research in Cooperative Economy and Social Innovation operates as a specialized knowledge platform under the umbrella of the Arab International Institute for Education and Peace, a consultative member of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), based in Geneva, Switzerland. Our Mission We are committed to promoting research, knowledge-sharing, and policy development to strengthen the role of cooperatives and the broader social and solidarity economy (SSE) in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), advancing environmental justice, and fostering inclusive and resilient communities across the Arab region. Vision Our vision is to establish an enabling and inclusive research ecosystem that empowers cooperatives, social enterprises, and grassroots movements to be drivers of innovation, equity, and sustainability. We aim to bridge gaps between research and practice, influence policy dialogue, and support transformative action at local, national, and regional levels. Core Areas of Work Research and Studies: We conduct comparative and analytical research on enabling environments for cooperatives, the intersection of SSE with climate action, youth and women’s participation, digital innovation, and policy frameworks. Capacity Building: Through workshops, training programs, and knowledge exchanges, we build the skills and capacities of cooperative actors, researchers, and policymakers. Policy Advocacy: We contribute to regional and international policy discussions by providing evidence-based recommendations and engaging with institutional stakeholders. Partnerships and Networking: We collaborate with academic institutions, civil society organizations, governmental bodies, and international agencies to foster dialogue and co-create knowledge. Knowledge Dissemination: We publish reports, working papers, policy briefs, and manuals to ensure research findings are accessible and actionable. Who We Are The Committee is composed of a multidisciplinary group of experts, researchers, and practitioners from across five Arab countries—Jordan, Egypt, Palestine, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia—working collectively to advance the agenda of cooperative and social innovation in the Arab world. It is chaired by Mr. Emad Abu Dawas and coordinated by Dr. Nadia Al-Khasawneh. Our Commitment We are committed to the principles of participatory research, social justice, and collaborative innovation. Our work is grounded in real-world challenges and dedicated to co-developing