Over nearly 30 years of fieldwork, Fondation Orient-Occident has amassed substantial knowledge of migration and refugee integration processes. It is renowned for its innovative and “anticipatory” approach to contemporary societal challenges, making it a point of reference for journalists and researchers from universities and the private sector.
The Foundation has collaborated on field projects with major European and other countries’ Cooperation and Development Agencies, the European Union, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the State. Simultaneously, it has actively promoted research initiatives, contributing to legislative changes in favour of human rights, particularly migrant rights. FOO’s commendable efforts have been acknowledged through various awards, including “The Human Rights Prize” of the French Republic in 2008 and the “Social Entrepreneurship” award (received by Yasmina Filali) from the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos in 2016. The Foundation engages in international advocacy work by participating in WEF meetings across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the USA.
Furthermore, Fondation Orient-Occident has consistently championed an innovative approach, especially in the realms of culture and art, considering them as universal tools for dialogue and union, fostering encounters and understanding among people.
The Migration Lab: A Platform for Research and Collaboration
The Orient-Occident Foundation has recently launched its internal research center dedicated to generating knowledge on migration dynamics in Morocco and beyond. This center, named the Migration Lab, serves as a space for reflection, exchange, and collaboration, aiming to deepen understanding of the complex challenges associated with contemporary migration.
The Migration Lab is committed to:
- Fostering exchanges and partnerships with universities, research centers, and cultural foundations at both national and international levels.
- Conducting multidisciplinary research (anthropological, historical, sociological, etc.) building on over 30 years of expertise on topics such as: Sub-Saharan migration, Refugee integration, Environmental migration, Human trafficking, Unaccompanied minors, Gender-based violence, Interculturality
- Disseminating research findings through a dedicated online space as well as conferences, seminars, and study days.
Researchers and students will be welcomed in the enchanting setting of a traditional riad located in the medina of Rabat.
Internship Opportunity: Dive into Migration Challenges
The Migration Lab offers researchers and students the opportunity to undertake a research internship on various migration-related topics. Interns will have the chance to:
- Actively contribute to a study on a specific theme.
- Explore the interdisciplinary aspects of migration with personalized support.
- Participate in enriching cultural and social activities.
Participation Requirements
- Minimum age: 21 years
- Desired qualities: Motivation, open-mindedness, and an interest in exploring new cultures
- Fields of research: Psychology, sociology, anthropology, history, geography, law, political science, economics, artificial intelligence
- Commitment: Completing the internship with a fully documented and comprehensive study on the chosen topic.
- Timing: June – August
- Duration: minimum 6 weeks
- Eligibility: undergraduate and graduate students
- Scholarships: available for room, board and travel expenses
Proposed Themes
- Voluntary return
- Human trafficking
- Gender-based violence
- Education and interculturality
- Psychosocial support and counseling
What the Foundation Offers Interns
- Support at every stage, from the admission interview to the completion of the internship
- Coverage of travel, transport, and accommodation costs
- Cultural visits and exploration of historical landmarks
- Meetings with local social actors
- Personalized guidance from a professor-researcher and a foundation specialist
Join Us
This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience and contribute to a better understanding of current migration challenges while immersing yourself in Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
1350 Office Suites, LLC 1350 Avenue of the Americas Floor 2 New York, NY 10019
Telephone: +1 (929) 668 6233
Email: rachid.badouli.fondation@gmail.com / elena.lucarda.scovazzi@gmail.com
