Elena Dal Santo is an expert in security governance, counterterrorism, and the prevention of violent extremism, with over a decade of experience in research and technical cooperation. Since 2012, she has collaborated with various international organisations, including different UN agencies, think thanks and NGOs. Currently serving as a Programme Management Officer at the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), she focuses on addressing the nexus between terrorism and transnational organised crime, particularly in the Sahel region and Western Africa.