David French in Beirut for ACSS inaugural conference

Beirut, 19 March 2013 - David French, Executive Director of the Alexandria Trust, participated in the inaugural conference of the Arab Council of Social Sciences. The conference brought together social scientists from across the Arab region with political scientists, urban planners, architects and historians.

The conference also provided an opportunity for academics and doctoral students to consider the challenges facing the Arab region from a multi-disciplinary perspective. The region has the fastest growing population and the highest rate of youth unemployment - averaging 25% - in the world. These pressing challenges, combined with the current political awakening across the region, were covered in papers and debate.

Established in 2008, the new council is registered and based in Lebanon and draws its members from across the Arab region and beyond. Commenting on the success of the event, ACSS Director Seteney Shami said: "I am delighted that we created a lively debate across many disciplines, with a large number of young people present and taking part. The council is off to a great start."

Read more about the conference in David French's blog "New Arab Council champions social sciences in the region".

For more information on the Arab Council for the Social Sciences, visit their website here.