About IPSS

The Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) at Addis Ababa University is the premiere institute for education, research and policy dialogues on peace and security in Africa. Established in 2007, it ranks among the top 50 think-tanks in Sub-Sahaaran Africa according to the 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 Global Go To Think Tank Index Reports. In 2010, IPSS was also identified by Addis Ababa University as one of its five “Centres of Excellence”. Its Africa Peace and Security Programme (APSP), a joint initiative with the African Union, is mandated by the African Union’s Executive Council to take up the intellectual challenge of finding African-led solutions to peace and security in Africa.

IPSS produces skilled professionals in conflict prevention, management, resolution, peacebuilding, and promotes the values of a democratic and peaceful society. We currently offer five education programmes: a one-year Executive MA on Managing Peace and Security in Africa (MPSA), a two-year MA Programme in Peace and Security Studies; a PhD Programme in Peace, Security, Federalism and Human Rights; and joint MA and PhD programmes in Global Studies. IPSS also serves as the secretariat of the Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa, an annual high-level gathering of heads of state, policymakers, academia, and the private sector to discuss and find solutions to Africa’s challenges in peace and security.