Alexandra Tokareva
University degree: Master in International Affairs
Job: Senior Programme Officer
Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP)
How did you start your career?
When I was a student at the Graduate Institute, I found an internship offer within an
investment promotion NGO through the Career Services Newsletter. After a few
months, I was offered my first job contract in this organization. My work focused on
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) promotion in different regions of the world,
particularly Africa and Eastern Europe. This opportunity allowed me to gain
experience and knowledge that I used for my dissertation devoted to the role of FDI
in the Russian energy sector.
Why did you choose to study at the Graduate Institute?
I was always intrigued by International Relations and politics. In 2001, I visited
Switzerland for the first time. I was very impressed by how international and multicultural Geneva is, with its numerous international and non-governmental
organizations. The year after, I moved to Geneva, while finishing my Public
Relations degree from a Russian University. I had always heard about The
Graduate Institute as being one of the most respected programs for International
Studies. Therefore, it was my top choice for graduate school.
Why did you choose a career at GCSP?
“I found an internship
offer […] through the
Career Services
Newsletter. After a few
months, I was offered
my first job contract in
this organization.”
I decided to work at the Geneva Centre for
Security Policy because I had already had
a great experience while interning there
during my graduate studies. I primarily
worked on nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation projects. The experience I
gained was very enriching and unique. In
2010, a position opened up for a Russian
speaker to coordinate the Centre’s
activities in the South Caucasus. Without
hesitation, I took the opportunity and
applied. I was really looking forward to
working at the Centre again. GCSP trains government officials, diplomats, military
officers, international civil servants and NGO staff in pertinent fields of international
peace and security. It brings together academics and practitioners. Moreover it
combines three pillars: training, research and dialogue. My job allows me to work on
CP 136 - CH-1211 Genève 21 | +41 22 908 57 00 | graduateinstitute.ch
current security issues, contribute to the political dialogue between the States, and
combine organizational and research activities.
In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at
GCSP?




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A solid knowledge of international affairs
Excellent interpersonal skills, respect and appreciation for other cultures
Strong organizational, analytical and research skills
Team work
Very good knowledge of French, English and one of the other UN languages
is an asset
 A capacity to work autonomously
Did the Graduate Institute prepare you well?
The Graduate Institute provided me with more than enough tools to advance in my
field. What I appreciated most in the MIA Study Program is its interdisciplinary
nature. My job in the Centre requires knowledge in different domains of international
affairs. Initially, I was working on Disarmament issues, and then moved to
International Humanitarian Law. Now, I work on capacity building projects in the
CIS region, as well as coordinating OSCE-related activities. Thanks to the Graduate
Institute, I had the knowledge and capacity to be flexible and work in different fields.
It also taught me to address the complexity of current international security
challenges. Moreover, the Graduate Institute provided me with a useful professional
network. My previous classmates are now working for Permanent Missions in
Geneva, and organizations such as OSCE, UN, ICRC and other NGOs. This is a
great advantage to me, as I often communicate and work in conjunction with these
other organizations. I also stay in touch with the Institute's professors, and we work
together on several training projects.
What advantage did the Institute give you from an intellectual point of view?
The Institute provided me with research and analytical skills, which I use every day.
How did you benefit from your position at GCSP?
My position allows me to meet new people from different cultures and exchange
views on international security. These are some very exciting incentives that come
with this job. In the four years I have been working here, I have had wonderful
opportunities to learn from visiting and in-house speakers, as well as our course
participants.
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