A little bit about myself
Dr. Ziad Al Achkar
About Me:
Passionate about the intersection of technology and international affairs, I earned my PhD in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University in August 2023. My research delves into the transformative potential of digital technologies and remote sensing, with a focus on enhancing ethical and responsible practices.
Research Focus:
In my dissertation project, I explore the concept of humanitarian legibility, investigating how digitalization and data impact the work of humanitarians. By examining the influence of partnerships with the private tech sector, I aim to understand the evolving dynamics in the humanitarian space. A critical aspect of my research is unraveling the relationship between local communities and modern digital humanitarian action, exploring the nuances of localization in an increasingly digital world.
Professional Focus:
Driven by a keen interest in leveraging digital technologies for societal betterment, I actively seek opportunities to build partnerships among private sector organizations, public entities, and civil society groups.
Speaking Engagements:
Frequently sharing insights from my research and work experience, I welcome opportunities to connect with individuals and organizations operating in the dynamic space where technology and humanitarian efforts converge.
Let's Connect:
I am eager to engage in conversations and collaborations. If you share an interest in the responsible use of digital technologies or are involved in similar work, I would love to connect.
Conference Papers, Invited Talks and Presentations (selected)
Operationalizing Security Analysis - Panel at Global Interagency Security Forum, Washington D.C. (March 2024)
"If it Bleeds it Ledes: The Concept of Peace as it Appears in the Journals that Study it", Presentation alongside Dr. Solon Simmons at the 2023 International Studies Association Annual Conference held in Montreal, Canada (March 2023)
“Humanitarian Innovation in Data and Information Management” at the Humanitarian Innovation in Action conference presented at Center for Strategic and International Studies, July 2022.
“The Pursuit of Humanitarian Legibility: How the rise in data collection and surveillance contribute to reinforce power dynamics in the aid sector” Research presented at the 2022 International Studies Association Annual Conference held in Nashville, Tennessee (March 2022).
“Assessing ‘Peace’ in the Peace Literature” Research presented alongside Dr. Solon Simmons at the 2022 International Studies Association Annual Conference held in Nashville, Tennessee (March 2022).
“Human Subjects, Digital Protocols: The future of institutional review boards (IRBs) and digital research in vulnerable communities” Paper presented alongside Dr. Charles Martin-Shields at the 2022 International Studies Association Annual Conference held in Nashville, Tennessee (March 2022).
“Humanitarian Negotiation and Technology -- Threats and Opportunities” Panelists for the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative Thematic Briefing Webinar Series. (February 2022)
Building peace in the age of emerging cybersecurity risks”, Panelist at the Data for Peace Dialogue, New York University Center for International Cooperation ( March 2022).
“What happens with digital transformation when the lights go off?” Panelist at ICT4D Partnerships Conference, January 2022.
Data Responsibility: The role and limits of Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Digital Responsibility. Presented with Joanna van der Merwe at Data for Policy 2021 Conference. September 2021.
“What a War Crime Looks Like from Space.” Presented at Data 4 Peace Dialogue Series, New York University Center for International Cooperation (February 2021).
“Digital Solutions for Peacebuilding.” Presented at Bonn Alliance’s Digitainable Forum (February 2021).
“Lebanon: Phoenix with Clipped Wings.” Presented at University of Wisconsin–Green Bay (October 2020).
“Human Subject Research and Digital Protocols.” Presented at Personal Data Summit (September 2020).
“Dry Grass: A Risk Assessment of Mass Atrocity in Uganda.” Presented at International Studies Association, Northeast, Providence, RI (November 2019).
“Humanitarian Principles and ICT.” Presented at International Studies Association Northeast, Providence, RI (November 2019).
“Conflict Resolution and Technology.” Presented at Praxis Conference, Arlington, VA (September 2018).
“Lebanon and Refugees: The Impact of the Syrian War on Lebanon.” Presented at University of Wisconsin-Stout (November 2015)
“Remote Sensing and Disaster Monitoring” Presented at Naval War College, Newport RI (March 2014).