Azra T. Syed's Page

What motivated you (or your organization) to become involved in peace and conflict resolution?

I was born and raised in Pakistan and have witnessed many regional conflicts and their affects on society. Growing up, I was aware of the hostilites between India and Pakistan and of the continous conflict over the Kashmir region. I witnessed two wars between Pakistan and India and the fall of East Pakistan and emergence of Bangladesh. During this period I saw Pakistan struggle with democracy and have several military coups.

Now Pakistan is on the brink of disaster because of the ongoing conflict in the northern area, which is destablizing the whole contry. With my backgound, I am acutely aware of how conflicts flare up and get out of hand because first steps were not taken in time, and later the right measures were not taken to resolve them before they became too big to control.

Living in the DC area, I am very keen to be part of an organization that looks into these issue and is working towards prevention and resolution of conflicts all around he world.

Please feel free to provide a short bio about yourself or the work of your organization (no more than 3 paragraphs)

I am a US citizen of Pakistani origin. I have a Masrers degree in International Realtions. I was enrolled in the MPhil/PhD program in International Relations and completed majority of my research. However, my studies were interrupted by my moving to the US.

I have strong regional knowledge of South Asia and have native level fluency in Urdu and Punjabi. I have a deep understanding of the religion, culture, socio-economic backgound and politics of the area. I am looking to be involved in some work where I can make a contribution with my educational backgound and my thorough knowledge of the region.

Prior to moving to the US, I was a teacher in Pakistan and taught International Relations and other subjects at various High Schools and Universities in Karachi, Pakistan.

Please list the countries and/or regions in which you (or your organization) have direct and significant expertise

I have lived most of my life in Pakistan and have a thorough knowledge of the region. I have native level fluency in Urdu and Punjabi, and have a deep understanding of the religion, culture, politcs and socio-economic conditions in the area.

What is your current country of residence (or location of your organization)?

USA

What is your current job (and organization) and/or where and what field are you studying?

Adjunct Professor at various high schools and universities in Paksitan before migrating to the US.

How many years professional experience do you have ?

15+

Which are your primary sectoral areas of expertise (or the primary sectoral areas of your organization) ?

Culture, Education

What are some of your current areas of research (if any)?

Japan's Relations with the Muslim World