The landscape of the region has changed dramatically since the ‘Arab Spring’ of 2011 but the outcomes of this upheaval are still far from clear. No countries have been unaffected by the changes, even those in the more prosperous Gulf where UK economic interests remain strong. The Syrian crisis has progressively worsened with millions of refugees outside Syria and millions of internally displaced people in Syria and Iraq. In Yemen, Iraq, Palestine and Libya insecurity and instability are challenging governments’ ability to deliver the most basic of services, and the rise of ‘IS’ has drawn many countries into the conflict in Syria and Iraq. In Egypt, one of our priority countries, the political landscape remains uncertain. The result is a complex and challenging picture around which the 17 countries of the British Council in MENA need to position their cultural and educational work.

The British Council is aiming that by 2020, we will have connected tens of millions of people across MENA with the UK, developing their English and skills, providing positive pathways to employment, and supporting the creation of more secure, open, prosperous, and equitable societies.

In order to achieve the vision, we will:

• Support systemic development in education and governance by working in partnership with governments and organisations to strengthen public institutions, build capacity and enhance employability.
• Develop the region’s future leaders by strengthening networks of young people who will be able to make a positive difference to their communities and societies, ensuring equal participation in these programmes by women and marginalised communities. We will support the development and growth of the creative sectors and strengthen social entrepreneurship.
• Provide positive pathways to employment for millions of young men and women, helping them to improve their English, develop their skills and knowledge, and gain globally recognised qualifications. We will use our digital learning resources to connect more young people with the UK and its culture, enhancing their international understanding through new perspectives.

This post will be part of the MENA Business Development and Delivery team and the post-holder will report to the Business Development Manager MENA based in the region

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