Sanjar Botoon

I am a Ph.D. candidate, and my industrial Ph.D. research explores challenges and solutions to the labor market integration of refugee professionals (refugees with university education) in Norway. I am originally from Afghanistan but have been residing in Norway since 2015.

My academic background encompasses a three-year certificate training in business management, a bachelor's degree in political science, and a master's degree in global development management. I also completed several professional courses on humanitarian aid management, human rights, democracy, decentralized and participatory governance, and conflict resolution during my tenure with the UN. Additionally, my over 20 years of experience with the UN and various international organizations in Afghanistan and Norway has deepened my understanding of global humanitarian and development issues.

Since 2017, I have been working as a program leader at Norway's Multicultural Center (NOMKUS). My tasks at NOMKUS include course development, conducting internal capacity-building workshops, and content creation for newcomer refugees in Norway related to their integration into Norwegian society. My academic background and work experience reflect my personal and professional commitment to contribute to ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of labor market integration programs for refugees and immigrants in Norway.

I believe that my position as a researcher with a refugee background facilitates a comprehensive and holistic exploration of barriers and enablers to the labor market integration of refugee professionals in Norway. As the world becomes increasingly globalized and multicultural, integration and social inclusion of ethnic minorities become an integral necessity to strengthen and sustain diversity. Contrary to some perceptions, I believe that ethnic and cultural diversity generally enriches society. Societies that value and utilize the potential of individuals from diverse backgrounds are generally more resilient and vibrant, both culturally and economically.