Saiia
Conference in Cape Town

We provide analysis, promote dialogue and contribute to African policy making in a dynamic global context. SAIIA is a non-governmental research institute focused on South Africa’s and Africa’s international relations.

As an independent, non-government think tank, we have a long and proud history of providing thought leadership in Africa. We are both a centre for research excellence and a home for stimulating public discussion. Founded in 1934, SAIIA has been voted the best think tank in sub Saharan Africa for five consecutive years (2009-2013) in the largest global survey of peers, the University of Pennsylvania’s annual Global Think Tank Survey. SAIIA has also received a five-star rating in the latest Transparify report, indicating our status as a 'highly transparent' think tank, one of only six think tanks in Africa to achieve this rating. Our project funding derives from grants from international governments, multilateral organisations and private foundations. SAIIA is governed by an independent council, comprised of representatives of our membership and senior figures in business and civil society. We are registered as a not for profit organisation with the Department of Social Development, and with the South African Revenue Services as a public benefit organisation. developing linkages and joint programmes with international organisations and agencies throughout the world. maintaining a resource centre and reference library (that is a United Nations depository as well as a World Bank Development Information Centre) for students and scholars of international relations. organising conferences, seminars and speakers’ meetings on a wide range of topics addressed by prominent South Africans and distinguished international guests. encouraging an interest in international relations among the youth through our leadership programme for postgraduate interns and our youth outreach programmes for university students and high school learners. SAIIA's youth initiatives align with our mission, emphasising a broader goal of fostering awareness on international affairs, programmes that stimulate public debate amongst young people, as well as providing skills development that cultivates future leaders and researchers. Many South African schools face enormous challenges, and SAIIA's schools programmes seek to go beyond single day events. By providing resources and tutoring, learners walk away with relevant skills that ultimately leave them with a deeper ability to engage with and understand issues affecting South Africa, the African continent, and the world as a whole. Each year, we run a ground-breaking Young Leaders Conference, the largest Model United Nations Conference in Southern Africa, and an Interschools Quiz.