About us

Our Mission & Values

The Brussels International Center (BIC) is an independent, non-profit, think-and-do tank, led by Ambassador Marc Otte, former European Union's Special Representative to the Middle East Peace Process. The BIC is committed to developing solutions to address the cyclical drivers of insecurity, economic fragility, and conflict in the wider Middle East region and Africa. In addition, we strive to promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by analysing the historical, economic, social, and political factors influencing the current complex and global issues. We use our research to provide forward-thinking and practical solutions to policy-makers, governments, and civil society by bringing systemic issues to the forefront of the conversation. 

BIC in numbers

24

Countries researched

+250

Publications

 +35

 Events

BIC is committed to a multifaceted approach to conflict that incorporates robust analyses of the intersectionality between local factors, geopolitical trends, socioeconomic and gender inequalities, and neocolonial dynamics. We use a combination of interdisciplinary strengths, research specializations and unique cultural experiences to produce valuable insights into fragile and conflict affected situations, conducting both qualitative and quantitative analysis, while providing data-driven recommendations.

Our Goal

Our goal is to use research to inform policy-makers and build partnerships. We create impact by engaging leaders at the national, regional, and international level in constructive dialogues that facilitate deeper learning, move past superficial talking points, and address systemic issues that often go overlooked. By creating collaborative spaces that engage leaders, civil society, and ordinary people in challenging debates, we seek to re-conceptualize the way in which all stakeholders relate to policy by translating multifaceted challenges into pragmatic, understandable, and usable solutions. The BIC builds connections. Between leaders, researchers, communities, and civil society. We hope that these bridges will help break down cultural boundaries, and promote more peaceful and resilient societies.

How has BIC worked towards its goals? Check-out our Annual Portfolios here:

Leadership

Ambassador Marc Otte

President

Read more

Siham Al Jiboury

Vice-President

Read more

Hadia Shurafa

Office Manager

Read more

Brandon Locke

Senior Strategic Advisor

Read more

Our team

Shada Islam

Senior Commentator on Geopolitics

Read more

Koen Metsu

Senior Advisor on Violent Extremism

Read more

Asil Sidahmed

Strategic Advisor and Analyst on Africa

Read more

Jean-François Fechino

Advisor

Read more

Maria Fabricius

Advisor on Strategic Communication

Read more

Dr. Cinzia Bianco

Senior Expert on EU-Gulf Relations

Read more

Dr. Sebastian Sons

Middle East Expert and Senior Researcher at CARPO

Read more

Fernando Aguiar

Senior Advisor on Conflict & EU Foreign Affairs

Read more

Yasmine Akrimi

North Africa Research Analyst

Read more

Nazlan Ertan

Political Analyst

Read more

Yousif Kharoubi

Media & Communication Manager

Read more

Wilson Fache

Middle East Analyst

Read more

Clémentine Lienard

Climate Security Analyst

Read more

Felicity Harrison

Copy Editor

Read more

Robin Fontaine

Researcher on Climate and Environmental Peacebuilding

Read more

Julien De Wit

Youth Representative

Read more
/sites/default/files/2019-05/newbanner.JPG