Anthropologists can be found working at various levels of government. They may be directly involved in planning and policy-making activities, obtaining jobs in government funding bodies, or senior administrative roles. Equally, they may be part of advisory or lobbying groups that indirectly inform government practice, in grass-roots advocacy, or in agencies responsible for carrying out government activities in public services such as health, welfare, housing or education. Almost every aspect of government decision-making benefits from a deep understanding of the social and cultural dynamics of the actors involved. Anthropologists employed in government often take part in interdisciplinary projects where they work alongside other social scientists, environmentalists, educators and government officials. In these situations, anthropologists need to become skilled in communicating anthropological knowledge and insight to non-specialists, and demonstrating how anthropology can transcend disciplinary boundaries.
Most jobs within the government sector demanding a certain level of responsibility and management will require entrants to have specialist knowledge and skills gained from a combination of a postgraduate degree and previous work experience, or advanced training. Many government-funded projects and organisations within the UK are devoted to helping young people gain experience in the sector. Students can become youth ambassadors, take part in political campaigns and rallies, or volunteer in human resource services. Whether you are a student at secondary school or university, or no longer a student, there are many ways you can become involved.
Recommended Resources
Visit our Political Anthropology webpage
General
https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/index.cgi
https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/ – programme for graduates
https://careers.un.org/home?language=en
Professional Organisations, Associations, and Groups
British Council– the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
The National Youth Agency (previously the British Youth Council) – the NYA is an organisation of young people for young people across the UK who provide opportunities for the ideas of the young to be heard.
The Cabinet Office – The Cabinet Office sits at the very centre of government and, together with the Treasury, provides the ‘head office’ of government.
Economic and Social Research Council – The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) is the UK’s leading agency for research funding and training in economic and social sciences.
Ministry of Defence – is the United Kingdom government department responsible for implementation of national defence policy, and is the headquarters of the British Armed Forces
National Social Marketing Centre – a strategic partnership between the Department of Health in England and Consumer Focus (formerly the National Consumer Council).
Books
Career Opportunities in Politics, Government, and Activism
Contrada, J. (Facts on File, 2003)
Films
The National Youth Agency provides films about their youth campaigns and activities.
Recruitment
Civil Service Beta – a large public-sector employer.
The Government Job – government & public sector specialist job site.
