Aida Ridanovic
Aida Ridanovic is a member of the Global Advisory Council of Displaced International (DI). Originally from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Aida experienced displacement firsthand as a refugee who resettled in the United States in 1996, becoming a U.S. citizen in 2001. Her journey from conflict to rebuilding her life has shaped her professional commitment to advancing global human rights and supporting displaced and marginalized communities.
Aida is an internationally recognized expert in international relations, strategic communications, and human rights advocacy. With over 20 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to addressing displacement, fostering intercultural dialogue, and promoting democratic resilience.
Aida founded the Center for Euro-Mediterranean Dialogue (CEMD) to promote cross-cultural understanding and strengthen civil society in Europe and the Mediterranean. Through her leadership, CEMD has driven initiatives that bridge cultural divides and address pressing regional challenges. As Director of the Euro-Mediterranean Forum, the flagship program of the Anna Lindh Foundation, she brought together policymakers, researchers, and civil society leaders from 42 countries to tackle cross-border issues such as human rights advocacy and the defense of civic space.
Her work with global media initiatives, including The Doha Debates for BBC World News and The New Arab Debates for DW TV, has reached millions worldwide. During her tenure with The Doha Debates, Aida advanced open dialogue during critical historical moments, such as the Arab Spring, shaping narratives that promoted freedom of expression and inclusive discourse in complex political environments. Her strategic vision has made her a trusted advisor to governments, international organizations, and civil society actors.
Aida’s career includes organizing high-profile international forums, producing analyses of anti-rights networks, and developing strategies to empower displaced and vulnerable populations. Her work is rooted in collaboration and innovation, with a focus on driving meaningful change in addressing today’s global challenges.
She holds a Master’s in Political Science and a B.A. in International Relations from the University of Colorado at Denver. With professional experience spanning the U.S., EU, and the Middle East, Aida continues to be a leading voice in global advocacy and human rights.
