Sara EL Khatib in Palestine awarded FBA’s 1325 scholarship

"I hope to support MIFTAH's efforts by amplifying countless stories that are often unheard – especially those of Palestinian women," says Sara.

She’s very excited to once again be part of the organization that she interned with many years ago during her studies. This time, she brings more academic and professional experience to the table, while getting the opportunity to deepen her knowledge on women, peace and security.

“This scholarship feels deeply personal to me - almost like coming full circle. MIFTAH was one of the first places where I truly felt that my voice and passion for justice mattered. Going back now feels like picking up a thread I never really put down.”

MIFTAH - the Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy is based in Ramallah in the West Bank, but the organisation covers all of Palestine. At a time when international coverage from Palestine is primarily focused on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, there are also many reports on human rights violations and increased violence in the West Bank.
MIFTAH works towards safeguarding citizens’ rights and enhancing rule of law, with a special focus on marginalized groups in the Palestinian society, especially women and youth.

With a desire to change

Sara hopes she can contribute to the organisation’s research and advocacy work, bringing her experiences from studying unspoken narratives of conflicts, which includes authoring several pieces on human rights violations against the Palestinian people.

“I really hope to learn more on how grassroot voices can shape real change, while looking forward to being part of a community that shares the same hopes for a more just world”.

Like many people in Palestine, she has her own personal experiences from the everyday struggle, but her story goes even further back in time - born in Serbia and raised in Bosnia, before moving to Palestine at the age of six.

“I have witnessed the struggles and strength of communities living under harsh conditions - especially the resilience of women”, she continues.

Her interest in human rights and advocacy later took her back to Bosnia and Herzegovina, on an academic and professional journey.

“I have seen the long-term impacts of war and how women are often sidelined in peace processes. Living in both Palestine and Bosnia has made me realise how universal and urgent these issues are, and the importance of reconciliation. This has shaped my deep commitment to inclusive peacebuilding.”

Looking ahead

Her vision for the future is to work at the intersection of research, policy, and advocacy - always with a focus on the people who are most affected by the conflicts.

“I want to continue telling stories that matter and create spaces where marginalised voices - particularly women - are not only heard, but that they can empower and lead others.”

Read more about the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 Scholarship on Women, Peace and Security, in Memory of Zaida Catalán.

FBA is Sweden’s expert agency for the implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325, adopted in 2000. Together with subsequent resolutions, it forms the agenda for women, peace and security. The agenda states that including women in the prevention, management and solution of conflicts is crucial for sustainable peace and security. The resolutions also highlight the need to improve the protection of women and girls from violence and the effects of conflicts.