The University of Edinburgh Awards Honorary Doctorate to Her Excellency, Dr Abla Amawi, Esteemed International Policy Expert and Social Justice Advocate
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The University of Edinburgh’s School of Social and Political Science is proud to award an honorary doctorate to Dr Abla Amawi. This recognises her exceptional work as a scholar, public servant, and international policy expert, especially her contributions to global governance, gender equality, and social justice. Born in Amman, Jordan, Dr Amawi's inspiring career demonstrates a profound commitment to public service and a fairer world. She has consistently worked to dismantle societal barriers, particularly for women in the Arab region, and serves as a significant mentor for new leaders.
Dr Amawi's extensive career includes over 27 years with the United Nations managing global, regional, and national programmes focused on the rule of law, gender justice, crisis prevention, and poverty reduction. She has held numerous leadership positions, including Secretary General of Jordan’s Higher Population Council and President of the Arab Council for Population and Development. Appointed to the Jordanian Senate by His Majesty King Abdullah II, she has also been a member of the Royal Commission on Political Reform and currently leads the Women’s Fund for Development at the Arab Women Authority. She has received the Distinguished Arab Woman Award and His Majesty King Abdullah’s Order of the State Centennial Honour for her exceptional contributions.
Professor John Devaney, Head of the School of Social and Political Science, commented, "It is with great honour that the School of Social and Political Science recognises a figure of Dr Abla Amawi’s calibre. Her life's work resonates deeply with our School's core mission to address global challenges through rigorous research and a commitment to social responsibility. Dr Amawi's dedication to gender equality and her impactful contributions to international development and policy reform inspire our students, faculty, and university community. We are proud to recognise her accomplishments and foster our relationship with such a distinguished global leader.”
The honorary degree also celebrates Dr Amawi’s important collaboration with the University of Edinburgh. Her partnership with Professor George Palattiyil from the School of Social and Political Science has helped advance research and initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in improving refugee reproductive health services in Jordan.
Professor Palattiyil, who nominated Dr Amawi for the honour and served as her Laureator, stated, "Having collaborated with Dr Amawi for over six years, I have witnessed first-hand her extraordinary intellect, her unwavering dedication, and her remarkable ability to translate complex challenges into tangible, impactful solutions. Dr. Amawi is an exceptional and truly deserving recipient of this honour, embodying the spirit of collaboration and the pursuit of knowledge for societal betterment. Her involvement has been instrumental in the successful completion of our research projects, maximising their real-world impact on marginalised communities. Dr Amawi exemplifies dedication to her field.”
Dr Amawi earned a Ph.D. in Comparative Politics & Political Theory from Georgetown University. Her scholarly work, including co-editing multiple editions of The Theoretical Evolution of International Political Economy, has earned her wide academic recognition.