dr. S (Sonja) Fransen

Biography

I am a Senior Researcher at the Humanitarian Studies Centre (https://www.humanitarianstudiescentre.nl/), researching and teaching on issues regarding displacement, sustainable development and climate change. As an engaged and passionate social scientist with an interdisciplinary academic background (development studies, psychology and migration),  my main areas of research include forced migration dynamics and trends, effective management of refugee camps, the impacts of climatic events on displaced populations, migration drivers, and the intricate relationship between migration and sustainable development and post-conflict recovery. I have extensive experience conducting research and managing research projects in developing country settings, particularly in African countries, and am skilled in collecting and analysing both quantitative and qualitative data. Due to the policy relevance of my work, I foster collaborative relationships with non-governmental organizations, governments, and international institutions including UNHCR, WFP, IOM, and the World Bank, to further advance knowledge and enhance the well-being of vulnerable populations through evidence-based policy.