Research Fellow (Volunteer)

Application modalities

• Submit CV (max 2 pages), 1/2 examples of production or papers, and availability via email to join@africapoliticaloutlook.org with subject “APO 2026 Research Fellow – [Your Name]”

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About the Africa Political Outlook. The Africa Political Outlook is a strategic platform dedicated to Africa’s political and diplomatic renaissance, convening high‑level leaders, policymakers, and experts to rethink governance models, strengthen institutions, and amplify Africa’s voice in global decision‑making. Its annual Summit in Brussels, along with year‑round initiatives such as the APO Leadership Prize and the APO Future Leaders Fellowship, serves as a laboratory of ideas and a catalyst for action.

Since 2023, APO has brought together heads of state, ministers, diplomats, MEPs, and international organizations around its annual summit to produce actionable policy recommendations that feed into national and global roadmaps. APO publishes the Annual Report on the State of African Governance — a rigorous, evidence-based assessment of political, economic, and diplomatic developments across the continent.

More informations :

As a Fellow Researcher (Volunteer) , you will contribute to APO's research and editorial work, supporting the production of its flagship publications, policy briefs, and expert content. You will work directly under the supervision of APO's leadership, engaging with some of Africa's most pressing governance, economic, and diplomatic challenges.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute hands-on experience in African political analysis at the intersection of think tank research, international diplomacy, and summit organization.

Key Responsabilities

• Conduct research and analysis on African governance, elections, political transitions, and institutional developments across the continent's five regions
• Contribute to the production of policy briefs, background papers, and sections of APO's Annual State of African Governance Report
• Support thematic research on APO's priority areas: critical minerals and the energy transition, AU-EU relations, AfCFTA and regional integration, digital governance, climate policy, and diaspora engagement

Profile & Skills

• Graduate or postgraduate in Political Science, International Relations, African Studies, Economics, Law, or related fields
• Strong analytical writing skills in English and/or French (bilingualism is a major asset)
• Genuine passion for African governance, development policy, and international affairs
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and produce clear, well-sourced analytical content
• Knowledge of AU, EU, AfCFTA, or multilateral institutions is a strong advantage
• Proactive, rigorous, and aligned with APO's values of intellectual independence and pan-African ambition

What you will gain

• Direct exposure to high-level policy research published and presented at international summits
• Mentorship from senior governance experts, diplomats, and policymakers in APO's network
• Co-authorship credit on APO policy briefs and research outputs
• Integration into APO's growing community of African governance changemakers
• A strong addition to your professional profile, with a letter of recommendation upon completion

Requirements

• A commitment of 8 to 10 hours per month

Application modalities

Application modalities

• Submit CV (max 2 pages), 1/2 examples of production or papers, and availability via email to join@africapoliticaloutlook.org with subject “APO 2026 Research Fellow – [Your Name]”