Special Announcement: Michael Keating as new Executive Director
26/10/2018
The European Institute of Peace (EIP) is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Keating as new Executive Director. Mr. Keating will assume responsibilities on the 5th of November 2018, succeeding Mr. Martin Griffiths, EIP’s first executive director. Mr. Griffiths was selected as UN Special Envoy to the Secretary General for Yemen. Under his leadership the organisation grew into the vibrant peace organization it is today.
The EIP is an independent organisation based in Brussels, with 31 permanent staff and budget of 9m euros, active on four continents, working with governments, civil society and other actors. A partner to the European Union and to European states, the EIP promotes informal and informed dialogue as well as hands-on support, notably in conflict prevention, conflict resolution and mediation.
From 2016 to September 2018, Mr. Keating was the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia, based in Mogadishu. He has worked on political transitions and led complex peace-building programmes and initiatives in Africa, Afghanistan and the Middle East.
Mr. Keating’s career has been divided between the private sector and public service. His previous roles have included serving as Associate Director at Chatham House in London; Executive Director of the Africa Progress Panel, a policy group chaired by late United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan; and senior advisor to mediation bodies.
His UN assignments have included Kabul, Lilongwe, Jerusalem, New York and Geneva with humanitarian, development, human rights as well as political responsibilities. He began his career in publishing, worked in television and ran a strategic communication consultancy for several years.
“At a time of uncertainty and evolving threats to peace, the EIP has an essential role in ensuring that European values and its global reach are used as effectively as possible to prevent, resolve and mediate conflicts” said Pekka Haavisto, Chair of EIP’s Board. “Michael brings a great mix of substantive leadership and partnering skills and relevant experience to the Institute”.
Photo Credits: Diego Ortiz Mugica