Alexander Schwerdt

As a former military officer, I'm transitioning now to the humanitarian sector, while pursuing my studies in African Studies with the EIMAS program. With a Master’s degree in Political Science, I have developed a strong foundation in leadership, administration, risk assessment, force protection and security reforms during my military career. 

My background includes serving as a military observer for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), where I gained insights into the complexities of conflict and displacement. Additionally, I have worked as an economic consultant for GIZ in Rwanda and as an analyst at a German foundation in Senegal (KAS), further enhancing my analytical skills and understanding of socio-economic dynamics within Africa, especially on value chains of agricultural production. An internship as a teacher at a school in Namibia equipped me with profound experiences within the educational system in a developing country and its knowledge production.

My academic research focuses on migration and security/conflict studies. My previous my master’s thesis titled "Emigration and Social Questions," explored the intricate role of families and demographies in the migration process in Senegal. This work reflects my commitment to addressing pressing social issues and advocating for vulnerable populations. As I continue my studies at EIMAS, I am eager to leverage my diverse experiences and knowledge to contribute to research on security, humanitarian challenges and migration policies in Africa.