International Institute for Human Security

Global Dialogue for Human Security

The International Institute for Human Security (IIHS) serves as a global think tank and advocacy platform that drives high-level dialogue on human security while empowering changemakers in marginalized regions through grassroots action.

Through dialogue, research, advocacy, and programming, we highlight the significant contributions and challenges of changemakers, advocates, and local leaders to global peace and security.

Our efforts bridge the gap between global policy and local action, thereby advancing human security and sustainable development. IIHS’s storytelling platform has showcased initiatives from the countries of Romania, Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Benin, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Pakistan, the USA, Turkey, Spain, Switzerland, and more, fostering a network committed to change.

About Us

The International Institute for Human Security (IIHS) is a global platform connecting global policy with local action, serving as both a think tank and an advocacy hub. Collaborating with international organizations, thought leaders, academic institutions, and grassroots practitioners, the IIHS works to advance human security and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Since 2019, the IIHS has worked to bridge the gap between policy and local action, addressing inequities in marginalized communities and their link to global challenges. By amplifying grassroots initiatives and fostering strategic partnerships, we create an impact on the ground while shaping global conversations.

IIHS invites diplomats, policymakers, and changemakers to join us in promoting human security and achieving the UN 2030 Global Goals through inclusive, sustainable solutions.

Mission

Our Mission: To advance human security by linking global policy discussions with the impactful initiatives of grassroots leaders in marginalized communities worldwide.

The International Institute for Human Security (IIHS) is a global platform dedicated to strengthening collaborative efforts and amplifying the contributions of grassroots leaders in marginalized communities. Through high-level policy discussions, we spotlight these leaders’ impactful initiatives, empowering them to drive meaningful, sustainable change.

As both a think tank and advocacy hub, IIHS engages in dialogue, advocacy, research, programming, and collaboration to ensure that conversations about human security remain focused on safeguarding individual and community safety, in line with the UN definition of human security. The IIHS is US-based 501(c)(3).

FIELD NOTES & INSIGHTS

IIHS at UN Geneva: Advancing AI Solutions for Developing Nations

IIHS Founder, Shon Abegaz, attended the recent AI for Developing Countries Summit (AIFoD), which concluded with a groundbreaking declaration and rich discussions on AI’s role in addressing developmental challenges.

IIHS at the Basel Peace Forum 2025: Reimagining Peace

Last week, the International Institute for Human Security (IIHS) had the privilege of attending the 9th Basel Peace Forum, held in Switzerland from January 22–23, 2025.

Empowering Voices: Women-Led Grassroots Movements in the Global Peace and Security Landscape

Basel Peace Forum
Special session: Empowering Voices: Women-Led Grassroots Movements in the Global Peace and Security Landscape.

The Future of Peacebuilding in 2025: Leveraging Ethical AI for Grassroots Impact

Ethical AI has emerged as a transformative force, offering grassroots peacebuilders tools to amplify their impact, navigate complex scenarios, and build stronger, more resilient communities.

OUR PROGRAMS

♦ Knowledge Enhancement Program

IIHS Core Program for Leaders and Changemakers (CPLC), led by Dr. Yara Zgheib

An immersive, high-impact multi-day workshop where a select cohort of fellows from around the world come together to design and enhance innovative peacebuilding initiatives. This annual program alternates between an in-person retreat in the Swiss Alps and an online format, ensuring participation from individuals in traditionally underserved and geographically isolated regions. The program fosters collaboration and actionable strategies for advancing global peace efforts.

♦Discussion Series

Advocacy Unplugged: Bridging Perspectives | Led by Tiffany Hayes
This ongoing series, led by Tiffany Hayes, offers in-depth discussions on global peace, security challenges, and progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Through these sessions, we spotlight the personal stories of global changemakers making a significant impact in fostering lasting change.

Voices of Refugees | Led by Tiffany Hayes

Also led by Tiffany Hayes, this ongoing series amplifies the voices of women migrants from around the world. It highlights the work of Restarter, a Dutch-based platform founded by Noemi Mena Montes and Anita Delhaas-van Dijk, empowering refugees to rebuild their lives through networks, education, and employment opportunities.

Human security is anchored in the strength of key societal elements, which we refer to as societal stabilizers. Our efforts prioritize six critical components of human security.

Good Governance
Protection of Women as migrants, refugees and victims of human trafficking
Food Security
The Responsibility to Protect (R2P)
Climate Protection
Indigenous Rights

GRASS ROOTS INITIATIVES WE SUPPORT

The Mobile Museum of Modern-day Slavery - Romania, Moldova

The Mobile Museum of Modern-day Slavery

NARI - Applying the gender lens in rural Pakistan

The Virtual Cafe with Azra Memon

Mission Ambassadors for Peace and Security

We are pleased to announce the 2024 IIHS Mission Ambassadors for Peace and Security. These distinguished leaders are at the forefront of advancing the UN 2030 Global Goals, with a steadfast commitment to promoting peace and security on a global scale. Through their visionary leadership and transformative initiatives, they are effecting substantial change and shaping a more sustainable and secure future. Join us in recognizing their exceptional contributions to global progress.

Copy of Virtual Cafe' FB Images Posts (3)

Copy of Virtual Cafe' FB Images Posts (5)

Copy of Virtual Cafe' FB Images Posts (2)

ADVISORY AND STEERING COMMITTEE

Dr. Gervais Rufyikiri

Special Advisor

Humanitarian; Former Vice President, Republic of Burundi

Gianina Dimitrescu

Steering Committee

Ms. Dimitrescu is the director of the Directorate for Strategies, Policies, Programs, and Monitoring of Equal Opportunities within the National Agency for Equal Opportunities between Women and Men within the Romanian Government. Ms. Dimitrescu serves as representation to numerous organizations. She is active in numerous working groups, including the working group tasked to negotiate the conditions and application of cooperation agreements and protocols signed at the government level between Romania and other EU member states.

Fatoumata Tambajang Jallow

Special Advisor

Humanitarian; Former Vice President, Republic of The Gambia

Dr. Aurora Martin

Steering Committee

Dr. Aurora Martin is an anti-discrimination and gender expert. She is Senior Advisor in International Relations within the Romanian Government and Parliament (on behalf of National Agency for Equal Opportunities, Ministery of Labour and Social Justice, and National Council for Combating Discrimination)

Dr. Yara Zgheib

Steering Committee

Yara is a policy researcher and analyst as well as a writer. She consults with governments and the nonprofit sector on peace and security strategies, with an emphasis on conflict resolution, counter terrorism, and countering violent extremism. Yara leads the IIHS Core Program for Leaders and Changemakers and is fluent in English, Arabic, French, and Spanish.

Agnes Cikowska-Teczar

Steering Committee

Agnes Cikowska-Teczar is a GIS Analyst/Location Strategist with experience in the fields of geographic information systems (GIS), spatial analysis, location strategy, site selection methods, market analysis, field data collection, and location optimization. In addition, Agnes holds several certificates from NASA’s Applied Remote Sensing Training program. Agnes speaks English and Polish.

Shon Abegaz

Founder and Chair of the Steering Committee

Shon Abegaz is an advocate for peace, security, and the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. She focuses on bridging grassroots action and high-level policy through dialogue, training, and trust-building. Shon founded the International Institute for Human Security (IIHS) and co-created the HumanSecurityX training program and the e-book Crossing Paths: A Guide to The Pillars of Human Security. She is a member of Women of Color Advancing Peace and Security and a founding board member of The African Seed Access Index (TASAI).

Phone

+1 312 620 6651

The IIHS is a 501 (c) 3 tax-exempt organization. All contributions are tax deductible for U.S. citizens and to the fullest extent allowable under U.S. laws.