Dr. Shatha Elnakib, PhD, MPH, brings a wealth of expertise and over a decade of impactful work to the North American Refugee Health Conference (NARHC), taking place in Niagara Falls, Ontario, from September 11-13, 2025. A globally recognized leader in sexual and reproductive health within humanitarian contexts, Dr. Elnakib will explore Challenges for Refugee Women with a plenary address on the topic of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Humanitarian Assistance.
A Leader in Global Health
Dr. Elnakib serves as an Assistant Scientist in the International Health Department at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Her research spans numerous pressing issues, including child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and reproductive health service delivery during conflict. With a commitment to improving policies and services in humanitarian settings, she leads mixed-methods studies that illuminate both systemic challenges and pathways to transformative change.
A Legacy of Service and Recognition
Dr. Elnakib’s career reflects her dedication to vulnerable populations. Prior to joining academia, she held pivotal roles with UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, and the Population Council. Her innovative approaches have earned her numerous accolades, including the Margaret McNamara Grant, the Sidney Kark Award for Excellence in Epidemiology and Research in Global Health, and the Nadia Younes Award for Public and Humanitarian Service.
Pioneering Research and Advocacy
Dr. Elnakib’s scholarly contributions are vast, with a focus on issues critical to refugees and displaced populations. Her work, such as the study on child marriage among Syrian refugees, provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners alike. Notable publications include her recent study in BMJ Open on child marriage among refugees and internally displaced persons across the Middle East and South Asia, and her scoping review of FGM in humanitarian settings in Conflict and Health.
Why Her Work Matters
Refugee women face unique challenges—from accessing quality reproductive care to navigating systemic inequities exacerbated by displacement. Dr. Elnakib’s groundbreaking research sheds light on these issues, advocating for holistic, evidence-based interventions that prioritize dignity and autonomy. Her upcoming presentation will offer invaluable perspectives to the NARHC audience, fostering dialogue and innovation.
Join the Conversation
The North American Refugee Health Conference is the premier event for advancing refugee health. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Dr. Elnakib and other thought leaders as they explore solutions to some of the most pressing global health challenges. Mark your calendar for this transformative gathering in Niagara Falls, ON, this September!