Observatory EU-MENA Relations

The Observatory on the EU-MENA Relations (OEMR) is dedicated to highlighting the importance of the relationship between the EU and the MENA region. To this end, we conduct thorough multidisciplinary research on the EU-MENA affairs, facilitate dialogue on topical concerns, and bring people together to exchange ideas and develop initiatives. In addition to providing a platform for scholars who focus on the study of the relations between the regions, the Observatory will also utilize various avenues to facilitate deeper understanding of the importance of the relationship between the EU and the MENA region, such as webinars, discussions, and podcasting.

Head of the Observatory EU-MENA Relations – Luca Saviolo

Luca Saviolo is the Head of the Observatory EU-MENA Relations and he is a young researcher at ISPI Africa Programme. Having majored in European External Relations, he holds a double MA in Policies and Governance in Europe at King’s College London and LUISS University and a BA with honours in Political Science at LUISS University. His research interests are closely related to EU external governance, climate and development in Africa and the MENA region.

Deputy of the Observatory EU-MENA Relations – Hafssa Fakher Elabiari

Hafssa Fakher Elabiari holds a Master of Science in Political Science from Leiden University. Her thesis explored how the presence of women in the ranks of an armed group impacts state-rebel peace negotiations. Prior to Leiden, Hafssa obtained a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Al Akhawayn University in Morocco. Her senior thesis, “Drone Warfare in Libya: The New Equalizer,” earned the best thesis award at Al Akhawayn’s School of Social Sciences and Humanities for originality, quality, and relevance. In 2019, Hafssa joined the Center for Iranian Studies (IRAM) in Ankara, where she researched and published on Iranian-Tunisian relations since the presidency of Habib Bourguiba and learned the foundations of Farsi. She also conducted research for the Center for Middle Eastern Studies (ORSAM) in Ankara. Hafssa speaks Arabic, English, and French and is improving her speaking skills in Spanish and Turkish.

Pablo Pastor Vidal

Pablo is a student of the Master in European Interdisciplinary Studies in the College of Europe in Natolin, with a backround in Spanish Law and Political Science. He has resided in Lebanon, where he developed his interest towards the Middle East. He is also part of Equipo Europa in Spain. He is currently specializing in the relations between the EU and the southern neighborhood.

Blanca Gonzalez Martinez

Blanca is a 21-year old Spanish student, currently completing a Research Master’s of Political Science at Sciences Po Paris. She attained her Bachelor’s from Amsterdam University College, completing a Bachelor’s Thesis on the role of democratic participation on civic and political engagement. She is interested in matters of institutional trust, corruption, state capacity, democracy and political engagement.

Isabela Coradini

Isabela is a 4th year Law Student in the University of Porto. She intends to pursue career in European and International Law, focusing on Human Rights and the threats/issues facing Artificial Intelligence.

Laura Montes Alonso

Laura Montes Alonso is an MA student in International Development at Maastricht University. She holds a BA in International Studies from Carlos III University. Her thesis, “Prospects for (in)application of International Law in Western Sahara. The taking of its natural resources and reactive activism as key questions”, was obtained with distinction.

Andrea Aznar Maciá

Andrea graduated with two bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Global Studies from Pompeu Fabra University. Her professional experience includes working as a gender policy consultant in Barcelona. She is an active volunteer at the Catalan Commission for Refugee Action (CCAR), providing logistical and administrative support to multiple projects in her local community. Her international exposure extends to studying in Canada and France, as well as participating in various Erasmus+ initiatives and cultural exchanges across Europe and its neighboring countries. She has a strong interest in the MENA region, European policy, migration and gender-related matters.

Faten Boualite

She’s an Advanced MA Student in European Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Migration and Human Rights policies at the Institute of European Studies and Free University of Brussels. She has a background in political science with a focus on European and International Governance. Because of her multicultural background, born and raised in Italy with Moroccan origins, she always had an interest in the political and diplomatic relations between the EU and the MENA Region which she is deepening via her academic and professional engagement.