FIME’s spring 2026 intern, Venla Lehtinen, has started her work in Beirut.
Venla is a master’s student in Global Politics and Theology at the University of Helsinki. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Social Science and Theology. In her studies, she has focused on peace and conflict studies as well as the cultures, religions, and politics of the MENA region and the Horn of Africa. During the spring, she will be working on her master’s thesis examining sexual violence in conflicts and crisis situations. Her research focuses on the international community’s efforts to address sexual violence in refugee camps in Lebanon.
– It is wonderful to be coming to Beirut to join the team at FIME, and I am eagerly waiting the opportunities that spring will bring. I am particularly looking forward to learning more about Lebanon and political issues in the Middle East through the institute’s activities. I am also excited about the opportunity to continue studying Arabic after a few years’ break.
Venla has previously interned with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and served on the board of the Student Union of the University of Helsinki (HYY). She also gained experience working at the Mexican Embassy in Nairobi during her exchange period in Kenya.
– In addition to working and studying, I hope to spend my free time meeting new people and exploring Lebanon’s rich cultural and natural attractions. I am looking forward to day hikes in the mountains and visiting ancient ruins and historic cities. I didn’t get to go skiing in Finland this winter, but perhaps I’ll have the chance to try the slopes at Lebanon’s ski resorts.