Wissal Es-sehli

Wissal Es-Sehli is a Moroccan scholar pursuing an MSc in Modern Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Oxford. She is a Mastercard Foundation Scholar and a member of Mansfield College. Her academic interests lie at the intersection of migration, algorithmic governance and North African politics, with a particular focus on how digital systems are reshaping borders, mobility and state power.

She graduated summa cum laude with a BA in International Studies from Al Akhawayn University. Her undergraduate research examined migration securitisation, human rights and the influence of European border policies on migration governance in Morocco. This work strengthened her interest in digital migration studies and in developing policy approaches that reflect the political and social realities of North Africa.

Her professional experience spans policy analysis, education, communications and youth development. As a policy analyst, Wissal has contributed to stakeholder consultations, policy research and the translation of community perspectives into evidence-based recommendations. During her time at Al Akhawayn University, she also helped create opportunities connecting students with employers, institutions and diplomatic actors, deepening her commitment to expanding pathways for young people, particularly those studying the humanities. She has also developed accessible educational content on peace, security, migration and human rights.

As a young Moroccan woman interested in politics, Wissal is motivated by the importance of making political knowledge and opportunities more accessible. At Oxford, she hopes to examine how migration, algorithmic governance and public institutions are reshaping power and mobility across North Africa, while contributing a distinctly Moroccan, African and Mediterranean perspective to the AfOx community.