The long history of our field of study has made us acutely aware of the relationship between knowledge and power. At a time of escalating violence in the Middle East and increasing pressure on those who study, teach, and speak publicly about the region, independent scholarship and critical public debate are under strain. Scholars and students face growing obstacles to academic freedom, access to resources, and the ability to engage critically within and beyond academia.
The British Society for Middle Eastern Studies (BRISMES) is meeting this challenge. As a registered charity, we promote research, education and public understanding of the Middle East and North Africa. We champion open debate and defend academic freedom across disciplines and communities.
Through our annual conference, journal, grants, prizes, and public events, BRISMES provides vital infrastructure for scholars at all stages of their careers. We create spaces for knowledge exchange, amplify underrepresented voices, and ensure that research on the Middle East reaches beyond the academy to inform wider society.
To continue this work, we need your support.
Running an independent scholarly society requires sustained investment in events, early-career support, digital platforms, and the daily administrative labour that keeps our work accessible and inclusive. Keeping BRISMES independent is essential to our mission. Donations from members and supporters ensure that we remain accountable to the scholarly community and the public, and able to uphold our charitable aims with integrity.
Your contribution helps fund:
- Scholarships, Awards and Prizes for students, early-career and established researchers
- Conference attendance support through the BRISMES Solidarity Fund for early-career scholars, scholars in precarious employment, and members based in the MENA region without institutional funding
- Events that foster collaboration, dialogue and critical debate
- Public engagement activities that bring expert knowledge into urgent public conversations
- Advocacy and support for academic freedom
Every contribution makes a difference. By supporting BRISMES, you are investing in knowledge, education, academic freedom and the conditions needed for informed engagement with one of the most significant regions of our world.
Will you join us?
Donate today and help sustain BRISMES’ work.
The British Society for Middle Eastern Studies (BRISMES) is a charity and a company limited by guarantee registered in England & Wales. Company No: 08747770 | Registered Charity No: 1161206 | Registered Office: 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ