International Crisis Group West Africa and Sahel Projects Internship 2027 in Senegal

Applications are open for the International Crisis Group West Africa and Sahel Projects Internship 2027, an opportunity for aspiring researchers and policy professionals to gain practical experience working on conflict prevention, political developments and security issues across West Africa and the Sahel.

The internship is organised by the International Crisis Group, an independent organisation that works to prevent wars and develop policies that support peaceful societies. The selected intern will support the organisation’s West Africa and Sahel project directors and analysts with research, monitoring, reporting and administrative activities.

The position is based in Dakar, Senegal, and is scheduled to begin in January 2027. It is particularly suitable for recent graduates or students with a background in international relations, political science or related disciplines who have a strong interest in African politics, foreign affairs and conflict analysis.

About the International Crisis Group

The International Crisis Group is an independent organisation dedicated to preventing deadly conflict and helping build more peaceful societies. It conducts research, produces analysis and engages with political leaders, policymakers and other relevant stakeholders to encourage informed action on conflict prevention and resolution.

Its West Africa and Sahel projects monitor political, security and social developments across countries affected by instability and conflict. The projects examine the causes and consequences of violence, identify emerging risks and develop recommendations for governments and international actors.

The intern will contribute to this work by supporting research and analysis covering countries in the Sahel and West Africa. Areas of coverage include Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and coastal countries along the Gulf of Guinea, among others.

The placement offers exposure to the work of an international policy organisation and an opportunity to understand how research findings are transformed into reports, briefings and advocacy activities.

Benefits of the Internship

The programme provides practical exposure to international conflict research and policy work.

Key benefits include:

1. Experience with an international organisation

The intern will work with experienced analysts and project directors at an organisation recognised for its work on conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

2. Practical research and analytical skills

The placement provides experience in political monitoring, conflict analysis, research, data interpretation and report preparation.

3. Regional knowledge

Participants will develop a deeper understanding of political and security developments across West Africa and the Sahel, including countries affected by armed conflict and political instability.

4. Policy and advocacy exposure

By supporting the organisation's research and project activities, the intern will gain insight into how evidence based analysis informs policy recommendations and advocacy.

5. Professional development

Working in a fast paced international NGO environment can help participants strengthen their writing, organisation, communication and research skills.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

1. Academic background: Candidates should have a recent undergraduate or graduate degree in international relations, political science or a related field. Students who can integrate the internship into their academic programme may also be eligible.
2. Interest in international politics: Applicants should have a strong understanding of international politics, particularly issues relating to conflict prevention and resolution.
3. Knowledge of African politics: Demonstrable knowledge of African political developments is required, with familiarity with West Africa and the Sahel considered particularly valuable.
4. Research and writing skills: Candidates should have good research, writing and organisational abilities and be able to summarise complex information accurately and concisely.
5. English and French proficiency: A good level of both spoken and written English and French is required. These language skills are important because of the regional coverage and the nature of the research work.
6. Relevant experience: Previous experience working on or researching West Africa or the Sahel is an advantage.
7. Additional language skills: Knowledge of Arabic, Hausa, Bambara, Tamacheq, Fulfulde, Mooré or Portuguese is strongly preferred.
8. Technical skills: Familiarity with visualisation tools such as QGIS, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign or Tableau is an additional advantage.
9. Legal authorisation: Applicants must be authorised to undertake an internship in Senegal.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official International Crisis Group recruitment portal.

Follow these steps:

1. Review the vacancy: Visit the official careers website and locate the Intern, Sahel and West Africa Projects position.
2. Check your eligibility: Confirm that your academic background, language skills and experience match the requirements. Make sure you are authorised to undertake an internship in Senegal.
3. Arrange financial support: Confirm that the internship can be integrated into your academic programme or that you have secured external funding to support your participation.
4. Prepare your application: The organisation's general recruitment process requests a cover letter, resume and responses to short application questions. Explain your interest in the role, relevant regional knowledge and the skills you would bring to the project teams.
5. Submit your application online: Complete the application through the official recruitment portal and provide the requested information and documents.
6. Prepare for the selection process: Interviews are conducted on a rolling basis. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of West African and Sahelian politics, your research experience and your language abilities.