The European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Horn of Africa plays a central role in fostering stability, dialogue, and cooperation across one of the most geopolitically complex regions in the world. As part of its mission, the EUSR is inviting applications for the position of Political Adviser to be based in Nairobi, Kenya.
This role offers a unique opportunity for an experienced professional to work at the intersection of diplomacy, regional security, and political dialogue, directly supporting the EUSR’s mandate in the Horn of Africa. The selected candidate will contribute to shaping strategies, analyzing political developments, and supporting the EU’s engagement in a highly dynamic and sensitive regional environment.
The vacancy is open to citizens of European Union member states who hold the necessary security clearance. It is an internationally contracted position at expert level, reflecting the seniority and responsibility of the role. The position is expected to commence on 1 October 2025, with the deadline for applications set for Monday, 1 September 2025 (close of business).
This article provides a detailed description of the job, responsibilities, and expectations for the role of Political Adviser, ensuring prospective candidates have a clear understanding of the requirements before submitting their applications.
Organisation
European Union Special Representative for the Horn of Africa
The EUSR’s mandate includes promoting EU policies in the Horn of Africa, contributing to conflict prevention and resolution, fostering dialogue among regional actors, and supporting international coordination. The office operates in complex political, security, and developmental contexts, engaging with a wide range of stakeholders including governments, regional organizations, civil society, and international partners.
Job Title
Political Adviser
Duty Station
Nairobi, Kenya
Contract Regime
Internationally contracted position at expert level
Availability
The selected candidate is expected to be available from 1 October 2025.
Security Clearance
Applicants must hold EU Secret clearance or be in a position to obtain it before taking up duties.
Job Description
The Political Adviser will serve as a core member of the team supporting the European Union Special Representative for the Horn of Africa. The role requires advanced political judgment, analytical capacity, and diplomatic skills to ensure that the EUSR is well-informed, strategically advised, and effectively represented in the region.
The position involves extensive political analysis, preparation of high-level briefings, liaison with stakeholders, and support to negotiations and dialogue initiatives. The Political Adviser will be expected to operate in an environment marked by sensitive political issues, security concerns, and competing regional interests.
Key Responsibilities
- Political Analysis and Reporting
- Monitor, research, and analyze political developments in the Horn of Africa, with particular attention to peace, security, governance, and regional integration issues.
- Prepare regular analytical reports, briefings, and updates for the EUSR and the European External Action Service (EEAS) headquarters.
- Anticipate emerging challenges and provide timely assessments to inform decision-making.
- Maintain awareness of the broader international and regional context, ensuring that advice reflects both local realities and global dynamics.
- Strategic Advice and Policy Support
- Advise the EUSR on key political strategies, priorities, and options for EU engagement in the Horn of Africa.
- Contribute to the formulation of policy recommendations and strategies that advance EU objectives in the region.
- Support the EUSR in aligning regional activities with EU-wide foreign policy objectives.
- Provide inputs into speeches, talking points, and strategic documents that articulate the EU’s vision and positions.
- Diplomatic Engagement and Liaison
- Support the EUSR in maintaining effective relations with national governments, regional organizations (such as IGAD and the African Union), international partners, and civil society actors.
- Represent the EUSR in meetings, conferences, and working groups when delegated.
- Facilitate dialogue and coordination among different stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of EU diplomacy in the Horn of Africa.
- Build and maintain networks of contacts across the region to ensure the EU’s work is informed by diverse perspectives.
- Support to EUSR Missions and Activities
- Assist in the preparation, organization, and follow-up of EUSR missions, visits, and meetings.
- Draft mission reports, aide-mémoires, and follow-up documents.
- Ensure timely and accurate coordination with the EEAS, EU Delegations in the region, and other EU institutions.
- Provide logistical and substantive support to EUSR-led initiatives, including high-level negotiations and mediation efforts.
- Internal Coordination and Knowledge Management
- Work closely with other advisers and staff within the EUSR team to ensure coherence and complementarity of activities.
- Contribute to internal discussions, strategy sessions, and decision-making processes.
- Ensure that lessons learned and insights are captured and shared to inform future EU engagement.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation of political developments and EUSR activities.
- Crisis Response and Conflict Sensitivity
- Support the EUSR in assessing and responding to crises in the Horn of Africa.
- Provide rapid political analysis and recommendations during periods of heightened tension or conflict.
- Contribute to efforts aimed at conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding.
- Ensure that the EUSR’s work reflects a conflict-sensitive and inclusive approach, engaging with diverse stakeholders and perspectives.
Essential Requirements
The announcement specifies the following eligibility requirements:
- The candidate must be a citizen of a European Union member state and enjoy full rights as a citizen.
- The candidate must hold, or be in a position to obtain, EU Secret security clearance.
Contractual and Administrative Information
- Category: Expert level (international contract)
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Starting date: 1 October 2025
- Duration: Contract details to be communicated to successful applicants in line with EEAS regulations.
Methodology for Application
Interested candidates are requested to use the attached application form provided with the official vacancy announcement. Applications must be submitted exclusively via email to the following addresses:
Applications submitted after the deadline or through other channels will not be considered.
The deadline for submission is Monday, 1 September 2025 (close of business).
Applicants are encouraged to carefully complete the form, ensuring that all relevant sections are filled, and to attach any requested supporting documentation as per the instructions in the Terms of Reference.
Closing Statement
This vacancy represents a rare opportunity to contribute directly to the European Union’s mission in one of the most strategically important and politically dynamic regions of the world. The role of Political Adviser is central to the effectiveness of the EUSR’s work, requiring a combination of political insight, diplomatic skills, and commitment to the EU’s values and objectives.
The successful candidate will become part of a highly dedicated team working at the forefront of international diplomacy, regional stability, and political dialogue. This position offers both challenges and rewards, making it an important step for experienced professionals seeking to apply their expertise in a meaningful and impactful role.
