The APRI has announced that applications are now open for its Young Talent Program, an internship initiative designed to engage young professionals and recent graduates interested in African policy research, geopolitics, and geoeconomics. The programme is part of APRI’s efforts as an independent think tank working across Africa and Europe to strengthen evidence-based policy research and support informed decision-making in global policy debates. Through the initiative, participants gain direct exposure to how research informs public policy and shapes geopolitical and economic discussions between the two regions. Applications for the Geopolitics and Geoeconomics track are currently open until 31 July 2026. Selected candidates will be considered for two internship cohorts, with the first cohort scheduled to begin in January 2027. Programme Overview and Purpose The APRI Young Talent Program is designed to provide early-career researchers and graduates with practical experience in policy research and analysis. The initiative focuses on developing skills in international relations, political economy, development policy, and African studies, while offering hands-on exposure to real-world policy processes. The programme aims to bridge the gap between academic training and professional policy work by immersing participants in ongoing research projects, policy discussions, and knowledge production processes within APRI’s thematic areas. According to APRI, the initiative also seeks to strengthen the pipeline of emerging talent contributing to African-focused policy research across international institutions, think tanks, and development organizations. Key Responsibilities of Selected Candidates Participants in the Young Talent Program will support a range of research, analytical, and communications activities within the Geopolitics and Geoeconomics programme. Core responsibilities include: Providing research, writing, data analysis, and editing support across programme topics Assisting in the organization of conferences, workshops, webinars, and policy events Supporting the development of policy briefs, reports, and advocacy materials Engaging in media monitoring and tracking geopolitical, economic, climate, digital, and governance developments Contributing to internal knowledge production and external communications efforts The programme is designed to give participants practical experience in both analytical research and policy communication, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary thinking and real-time policy relevance. Skills and Academic Requirements APRI stated that applicants are expected to have completed graduate-level studies in fields such as International Relations, Political Economy, Development Studies, African Studies, or related disciplines. Strong research and analytical capabilities are essential, particularly the ability to assess complex geopolitical, economic, climate, digital, and governance dynamics. Applicants should also demonstrate proficiency in media monitoring and the ability to track policy developments and emerging global trends across multiple information sources. Excellent writing skills in English are required, both written and spoken. Knowledge of additional languages, including French, German, Arabic, or African languages, is considered an advantage. The organization emphasized that successful candidates should demonstrate curiosity, analytical rigor, and the ability to work across diverse thematic areas within international policy research. Internship Structure and Location The Young Talent Program offers structured internship cohorts, with the first cohort beginning in January 2027. Selected applicants will be assigned to APRI’s Geopolitics and Geoeconomics programme, contributing to ongoing research and policy engagement activities. APRI encourages participants to engage with its team culture through in-person collaboration where possible. Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete part or all of their internship in one of APRI’s offices located in Berlin or Abuja. The hybrid or in-person engagement is intended to enhance learning opportunities, foster collaboration, and provide deeper exposure to policy research environments across both African and European contexts. For applicants currently registered in the European Union, enrollment in a European university is required in accordance with internship regulations. Strengthening Africa–Europe Policy Research Collaboration APRI’s Young Talent Program reflects a broader effort to strengthen policy research collaboration between Africa and Europe, particularly in areas such as geopolitics, economic transformation, climate policy, digital governance, and international development. Think tanks and policy institutions increasingly emphasize the importance of training emerging researchers who can navigate complex global systems and contribute to evidence-based policymaking. By engaging young professionals in active research and policy processes, APRI aims to support the development of future experts capable of contributing to informed debate and strategic policy analysis on African and global issues. The programme also highlights the growing demand for professionals who can integrate data analysis, geopolitical assessment, and policy communication in rapidly evolving global contexts. Opportunity for Early-Career Policy Researchers The APRI Young Talent Program presents an opportunity for recent graduates and early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience in policy research, international relations, and geopolitical analysis. Participants will work closely with experienced researchers and policy experts while contributing to publications, reports, and policy engagement activities that inform public and institutional debates. The initiative is particularly suited for individuals seeking careers in think tanks, international organizations, development agencies, or policy advisory roles focused on Africa and global governance. Applications remain open until 31 July 2026, with selected candidates expected to join the first cohort beginning in January 2027. 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