Regional Advisor - Somalia
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Based in Brussels and active in over a dozen countries, the European Institute of Peace (www.eip.org) is an independent organisation working collaboratively with the parties to the conflict, those who represent people suffering from insecurity or at risk of violence, as well as European decision-makers and the conflict prevention, resolution and mediation community.
We provide practical experience, technical expertise, and policy advice on conflict resolution. We use a variety of tools to help us do this, including analysis, mapping and design of peace processes and agreements, facilitating policy discussions, and proposing practical engagement, for example through inclusive dialogue and mediation support.
Are you captivated by our innovative approach to peace, and do you want to contribute to the mission of our institute? Do you share our vision for a world where people live in safety and peace because conflicts and grievances are resolved through inclusive dialogue and lasting political agreements?
We are looking for a Regional Advisor to support the team’s current projects in Somalia within the Engagement, Dialogue and Process Design (EDP) unit.
You will
Political engagement and programme implementation
- Contribute to the Institute’s strategic and technical engagement in Somalia, in support of efforts to advance peace and dialogue both within the country and across the region.
- Support targeted engagement with political leadership and other key actors from across the country’s federal and local structures to advance dialogue initiatives.
- Facilitate engagement with local leadership and prominent civil society representatives — including community and clan elders, women’s organisations, youth groups, young leaders, and digital influencers — in priority areas, to promote inclusive and locally owned dialogue processes.
- In close coordination with the African Belt team, support the organisation and conduct missions to the region to implement the Institute’s initiatives on the ground.
Programme management and coordination
- Maintain regular liaison with the African Belt team to provide timely political analysis and reporting, share insights from field engagements, and contribute to the strategic development of the programme.
- Contribute to the drafting of concept notes, project proposals, internal and donor reports, and other programme-related documentation.
Donor relations and stakeholder engagement.
- Assist in the coordination of donor engagement and fundraising efforts to sustain the Institute’s programme and peace initiatives in Somalia and the wider region.
- Support the preparation of briefing materials, background notes, talking points, and event programmes for internal and external audiences.
- Any other responsibilities as agreed with the Deputy Executive Director (DED) and the African Belt team.
Your skills and experience
- Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, political affairs, or a related field, preferably with a focus on Somalia, the Horn of Africa, or comparable conflict contexts;
- Familiarity with the political, social, and security dynamics of Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa, as well as with the geopolitical developments affecting the region;
- Sound understanding of the political, social, and security dynamics of Somalia and the wider region;
- Proven experience in facilitating political and/or civil society engagement processes, with strong intercultural communication skills and an ability to work effectively with high-level stakeholders and local actors alike;
- Willingness to travel frequently to the Horn of Africa, including to remote and high-risk areas;
- Perfect command of English is necessary. Knowledge of Somali or Arabic would be an asset;
- Ability to work well under pressure and comply with tight deadlines;
- Ability to work independently and as part of a small, multicultural team;
- A keen interest in the Institute’s work and mission.
What we are offering
Consultancy contract from July 2025 until December 2025.
Recruitment process
Closing date: 07/07/2025, midnight (CEST).
Please submit your application using the webform below.
Our hiring team will review all applications after the closing date of the vacancy. We will keep you informed on the status of your application.
EIP firmly believes that diverse perspectives are key to our work. Therefore we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusiveness. Your qualities and commitment are what matter to us, regardless of race, nationality, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.