Therese Bongard

Therese Bongard has extensive experience in international relations and diplomatic service, currently serving as Deputy Director at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs since September 2012, where responsibilities include leadership in the Horn of Africa and Western Africa section. Previously, Therese held roles as a Senior Advisor coordinating Norwegian policy at the UN Security Council and as a First Secretary in various capacities related to African affairs. Prior to the current position, Therese gained valuable experience with the United Nations as a Project Associate in the Police Division and with the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in peace and reconciliation consultancy. Earlier work includes journalistic roles at VG and Budstikka, focusing on political and general news. Academically, Therese holds an MPhil in International Relations from the University of Cambridge, a Diploma in Sciences Politiques from the University of Paris I: Panthéon-Sorbonne, a BA in International Relations from the University of Oslo, and a BA in Journalism from Høgskolen i Oslo.