Jessica Baen is a conflict resolution professional with a focus on mediation, intercultural communication, and human rights advocacy. She has conducted research in India, Syria, Palestine and Israel. She serves as Research Manager with the East-Timorese NGO Belun for “Assessing Security Sector Legitimacy in Timor-Leste,” a project developed with the support of the Arnold A. Saltzman Institute at Columbia University. In addition to her work with Belun, she is active with several New York City-based community organizations to promote immigrant rights and intercultural dialogue. She holds a Master in Public Affairs Degree from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and previously served as coordinator for the International Conflict Resolution and International Security Policy programs at the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University.