Advocacy & Research Action
Our Projects
SPES Institute translates research into action through targeted projects that address real challenges at the intersection of AI, governance, youth empowerment, and public accountability.
Youth Advocacy Bridge
The Youth Advocacy Bridge is SPES Institute's flagship cross-continental programme connecting Africa and Europe. It is designed to empower the next generation of civic leaders with the skills, tools, and networks they need to drive democratic accountability and ethical AI governance.
The programme bridges two continents through structured partnerships between youth organisations, civil society actors, and research institutions. Participants are trained in democratic watchdog methods, digital governance tools, and civic technology equipping them to hold institutions accountable and contribute to transparent, inclusive governance.
Key Objectives & Milestones
Cross-continental exchange
Build lasting partnerships between African and European youth organisations
Civic leadership capacity
Train young leaders in accountability, advocacy, and democratic participation
Democratic watchdog methods
Equip participants with tools to monitor and report on governance and AI deployments
Digital governance skills
Develop practical competency in civic technology and digital accountability platforms
Ethical AI literacy
Help young people understand, critique, and shape AI governance in their communities
Ongoing Work
Research and initiatives in progress
SPES Institute is actively developing new research projects and civic initiatives. Check back for updates, or subscribe to our newsletter in the footer to be notified when new work is published.
Have an initiative or study you would like to pitch? Let's write a proposal.
Potential Future Project Areas
- AI Ethics in African contexts
- Digital rights and governance in East Africa
- Comparative AI policy across the Global South
- Youth and AI policy co-design
Work with us
SPES Institute welcomes research collaborators, institutional partners, and funders who share our commitment to ethical, human-centred AI. Whether you are a university, NGO, government body, or foundation, we are open to joint projects that advance the public interest.