Open to opportunities

Merihan Sobhi El Salakawy

@merihansobhielsalaka

Message

Experienced policy consultant specializing in migration and refugee policy.

Egypt

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek a role that allows me to influence migration policies and advocate for displaced populations while fostering inclusive community solutions.

I am a dedicated policy analyst and consultant with over six years of experience in migration and refugee policy, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. My work bridges academic insights with community-grounded solutions, focusing on shaping inclusive, evidence-based policies that empower displaced populations and strengthen regional governance frameworks.

Currently, I am conducting in-depth country-level research on Egypt and the Sahrawi Republic as part of the Africa Integrity Indicators project at the African Institute for Development Policy. My previous role as a Policy Associate with the African Union involved formulating key recommendations to enhance communication and engagement with Member States, showcasing my ability to influence policy at a continental level.

Throughout my career, I have been passionate about advocating for the rights and entitlements of refugees, contributing to high-level meetings, and implementing initiatives like the Refugees Youth Forum. My commitment to fostering coexistence and sustainable development in host communities drives my work, and I am eager to continue making a positive impact in this field.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Consultant

Current

African Institute for Development Policy

Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 5 months)

Conducted in-depth country-level research on Egypt and Sahrawi Republic for the Africa Integrity Indicators (AII) project, assessing key policy, legal, and governance frameworks. Published the Africa Integrity Indicators Report for Egypt 2024, contributing to insights on rule of law, anti-corruption, human development, and public service delivery.

Governance Analysis Legal Framework Service Delivery Data Analysis

Policy Associate

African Union

Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 5 months)

Conducted research on national TVET structures and governance in Member States, formulating key recommendations to enhance communication and engagement. Assisted in servicing high-level meetings, including the 35th AU Heads of State and Government Summit and the 40th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of Ministers.

Stakeholder Engagement Communication Strategy Summit Coordination Governance

Senior Field Officer

Caritas

Jan 2020 - Present (5 years 5 months)

Designed and implemented the first Refugees Youth Forum, focusing on refugees' contributions to sustainable development and promoting inclusion and coexistence. Contributed to high-level meetings and cash working groups to advocate for refugees’ entitlements in Egypt.

Program Design Event Management Refugee Advocacy Community Engagement Stakeholder Management Policy Advocacy

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

London School of Economics (LSE)

MSc of International Migration & Public Policy, International Migration & Public Policy

Activities and societies: Chevening Scholar

Pursued a Master of Science degree focusing on international migration and public policy. Gained expertise in policy analysis, design, and implementation related to global migration trends and refugee issues. Awarded the prestigious Chevening Scholarship.

Alexandria University

BSc of Political Science, Political Science

Completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. Studied various aspects of political systems, international relations, and economic studies. Developed a strong foundation in political theory and analysis.