Abdul Halim Zaaza, a UN Volunteer with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is turning data into action in his assignments. In his native Lebanon, where he serves as an Associate Rapporteur, he uses quantitative and qualitative analysis to inform how programs are prioritized within the Lebanon Response Plan.
Abdul Halim’s journey with UNDP began with a deep interest in using a data-driven, evidence-based approach to address humanitarian challenges in Lebanon and support efforts to build peace and stability.
For him, perhaps the most rewarding aspect of volunteering is the direct impact it has on society: “Integrating data analytics into concrete humanitarian projects and interventions strengthens our connections with society at large, and particularly with vulnerable communities,” he says.
The steps taken by Abdul Halim will ensure that interventions are data- and evidence-based, and not merely reactive.
This data-driven approach is effective and allows us to track progress on the ground.
Volunteering has given Abdul Halim the opportunity to hone his skills. He is adept at consolidating data into action points and can provide clear recommendations to various stakeholders.
I conducted a core analysis of emerging tensions and conflict trends in Lebanon, and one of the reports that emerged from this analysis is now used as a benchmark to assess tensions over water services and supply in the country,” said Abdul Halim Zaaza, UN Volunteer Associate Reporting Officer at UNDP Lebanon.
Abdul Halim was one of 38 UN Volunteers from 14 countries who took part in the UN Volunteer Mission Preparation Training for Arab Countries in April 2024 in Egypt.
The training equipped the young volunteers with leadership, conflict management and communication skills.
The sessions utilized not only theory but also practical examples that taught participants skills that could be applied in various scenarios, allowing them to practice, share knowledge and learn from each other.
“We shared experiences and discussed the complexities of conflicts in our respective countries, which broadened our perspectives. These discussions deepened our understanding of the complexities and dynamics of the region and highlighted the importance of cooperation and solidarity in tackling these issues,” said Abdul Halim.
He believes it is crucial to recognise the potential of talented young people: “Young people’s immense potential, curiosity and mental strength enable them to make the most of the opportunities before them and make a lasting impact in whatever field they pursue.”
If we equip young people with the skills, opportunities and spaces to participate, a just, inclusive and sustainable future is within reach.
