Purpose

CDD-Ghana is seeking the services of a Bilingual Research Assistant to support its International Desk in conducting comprehensive research and policy analysis on the activities and impacts of international actors on democratic consolidation and inclusive development in West and Central Africa. The Research Assistant will assist in generating evidence-based research and policy analysis across various thematic areas to facilitate advocacy engagement with regional and international stakeholders.

Background

In recent years, democratic progress is waning across the continent. Representative governance and accountability have suffered setbacks with nine registered coups since 2020 on the continent. Exogenic crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian-Ukraine war, and Israel’s war with Hamas have worsened economic progress and created more opportunities to roll back civic freedoms in Africa as many nations have used that as a justification to postpone elections to stay beyond their mandated terms while at the same time contending with the escalating threat of violent extremism.

Amidst these challenges, many African governments have welcomed renewed international solidarity and support from bilateral and multilateral economic and political engagements. These engagements have taken the form of international summits accompanied by state visits where infrastructure investments, trade facilitation, military and security aid, and economic recovery support are often on the agenda.

The retreat of multilateralism, rise of nationalism in a multipolar world has reshaped Africa's geopolitical landscape. Given the rapid pace of global affairs and its impacts on democratization, it has become imperative for African think tanks to actively engage in analyzing and understanding global dynamics to inform regional and local policy decisions, as part of efforts to counter democracy decline.

In light of this, the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) as part of its mission to promote democratic governance and development has established an International Desk to explore the activities and actions of various global and regional powers, their interests, dynamics, and impacts on democratic consolidation and inclusive development.

Scope of Work

1. A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, or a related field.
2. At least 3 years of relevant experience in conducting research on international affairs, democratic governance, or related fields (focus on West or Central Africa is an advantage)
3. Demonstrated ability to analyze international engagements and trend analysis, and their impact on democratic consolidation and inclusive development.
4. Strong research and analytical skills, including proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
5. Excellent writing skills, with the ability to assist in producing high-quality research reports and policy briefs.
6. Ability to work remotely, independently, and collaboratively in a multicultural environment.
7. Proficiency in English and French is required.