International Crisis Group, one of the world’s leading conflict-prevention NGOs, is recruiting an intern for its West Africa and Sahel projects, starting in January 2027. The intern will be based in Dakar, Senegal (hybrid) and will support analysts covering Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and the coastal Gulf of Guinea countries. Applications close on 16 November 2026, but interviews are rolling, so apply early.
Important: the internship is only for students who can earn academic credit for it, or who already have external funding such as a grant or scholarship. Crisis Group does not mention a stipend, so plan for it to be unpaid. You also need strong French and English.
Key Details
- Organisation: International Crisis Group
- Teams: West Africa and Sahel projects
- Location: Dakar, Senegal (hybrid)
- Start: January 2027
- Pay: no stipend mentioned (academic credit or external funding required)
- Deadline: 16 November 2026 (rolling interviews)
What You Will Do
- monitor political and security news across West Africa and the Sahel
- write daily press roundups on the countries covered
- help draft monthly situation reports
- support research, including conflict data analysis
- take notes at Crisis Group events and research meetings
- handle other administrative tasks
Benefits
- hands-on experience in conflict analysis and advocacy at a high-profile international NGO
- work alongside project directors and analysts focused on the Sahel and West Africa
- strong CV value for careers in peace and security, diplomacy and international affairs
Eligibility
- a student in an academic or sponsored programme (credit or external funding)
- a recent undergraduate or graduate degree in international relations, political science or a related field
- good written and spoken English and French
- strong writing, research and organisational skills, and the ability to summarise clearly
- good knowledge of conflict prevention and African politics, ideally West Africa/Sahel
- authorisation to do an internship in Senegal
Strong advantages: Arabic, Hausa, Bambara, Tamacheq, Fulfulde, Mooré or Portuguese; experience in or on West Africa or the Sahel; skills in QGIS, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign or Tableau.
How to Apply
- Read the full description on the official Crisis Group job page.
- Prepare a CV and a short motivation statement showing your knowledge of West Africa and the Sahel.
- Get confirmation from your university (for credit) or proof of your funding.
- Apply online before 16 November 2026 — the post may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found.
Tips
- Show you follow regional news closely — mention recent developments in Mali, Burkina Faso or Niger.
- Highlight any local languages such as Hausa, Bambara or Fulfulde.
- Include a short writing sample or link to an article or blog if you have one.
- Nigerians, Ghanaians and other ECOWAS citizens: confirm what you need for an internship in Senegal.
Related Opportunities
- UNDP Internship in Effective Development Cooperation 2026
- ActionAid Nigeria Digital Engagement Internship 2026
- WPS Civil Society Activation Initiative 2026
Deadline: 16 November 2026.
