Dr. Elamin Akoy, affiliated with the Sudan-Norway Academic Cooperation (SNAC), recently participated in the 6th World Conference on Climate Change and Global Warming in Copenhagen. This international conference provides ample opportunities for learning and networking for scholars working on climate change from different perspectives. Akoy presented his research on climate risk and agricultural production in North Darfur.

The invitation to participate at the conference is a clear recognition both of the importance of research on how climate change affects Sudan and of Akoy’s research in particular, but currently being displaced by war, his participation was not a given. His experience prior to arriving in Copenhagen illustrates the structural barriers that displaced academics face when trying to participate in the global academic community and taking part in international collaboration and conferences. From navigating complex visa requirements to overcoming digital payment restrictions, his experience shows how scholars from conflict-affected regions are disproportionately affected by such mobility challenges.

Despite these hurdles, Elamin Akoy was able to travel to Copenhagen and participate at the conference with support from the Sudan-Norway Academic Cooperation (SNAC).

You can read Elamin Akoy’s personal account of the barriers he faced upon participating in the international conference here:

Crossing borders with knowledge: A Sudanese scholar's journey through displacement and mobility barriers