Hometown: Jordan

Research interests: studies of globalization and development, gender studies and sexuality, feminist activism in the Middle East, political activism, and independent journalism/media

Besan joins MAAS with 10 years of professional experience in research and development across different fields: cultural anthropology, journalism, and human rights. Her research is mainly focused on the theories of globalization and gender studies working with ethnographic research methods and feminist theories. Besan has worked and consulted for a number of regional and international organizations such as EnCompass LLC, Al Jazeera, Mercy Corps, International Rescue Committee, and Friedrich Ebert Foundation. She holds a master’s degree in Literature and Criticism and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature.