Journalism-led investigations and evidence-based research are at the core of what we do. Whether it’s an op-ed, policy brief, or in-depth report, our work is driven by curiosity, rigour, and a commitment to clarity, transforming complex issues into accessible, actionable insights. We harness our practical experience and communication skills acquired from many years of international news journalism, to translate compelling research into accessible content. As postgraduates ourselves with an eye for detail we see the value in robust rigorous research but we also acknowledge the need to be able to communicate this clearly to a wider audience. We produce written products including International Policy Briefs, Op Eds, and customised briefings. We also offer strategic communications training and advice to individuals and organisations. To date our focus has been on international relations/government relations, human security and emerging technologies, human rights, influence/ information operations, humanitarian and crisis Response. KAI has published a number of papers on the evolving communications environment including for NATO Centre of Excellence for Strategic Communications and the Institute for Security Studies. Karen Allen International (KAI) produces investigative, journalism-led research on issues shaping today’s global landscape. Karen regularly writes on foreign policy, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, alongside producing in-depth research and policy briefs. This includes work on cybercrime, cyber diplomacy, technology in society, and information operations, including generative AI and disinformation across Africa and Europe. KAI has also undertaken open-source intelligence (OSINT) investigations into human rights-related issues and contributed peer-reviewed research for institutions such as the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, including papers on drone technology and influence operations. We produce bespoke policy briefs, research papers, training materials, and insights for a wide international audience, drawing on extensive field experience and strategic partnerships. Our team has contributed to thought-leadership events on human security, development, human rights, and foreign policy, and regularly participate in panels, media commentary, and training initiatives. KAI is a member of the SIGLA Programme (Stellenbosch University) and the Centre for Information Integrity in Africa (CINIA). We take a 360-degree approach to complex problems, blending data science, open-source intelligence techniques, and the principles of journalism and academia to generate meaningful insights. As experienced communicators and former TV news correspondents, we are skilled at visually translating findings into clear, impactful formats. In partnership with Murmur Intelligence, we apply advanced data analytics to map key messages, actors, and risks in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. From security and media freedom to international affairs and commercial risk, we uncover the context in which issues are communicated—delivering actionable, data-informed insights. This collaboration brings together the best of data science, AI, and investigative expertise. Our OSINT capabilities support deep-dive investigations into information operations, narrative control, and digital influence campaigns—particularly across Africa and Europe. We monitor the use of AI by state and non-state actors, including its role in transnational organised crime. Through our European partnerships, we track evolving tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) and assess both convergence and divergence in threat behaviours. We are recognised as a leading voice on information operations in Africa. Our unique mix of research and journalistic expertise enables us to translate complex findings into compelling media outputs. These include video explainers, animated motion infographics, and audio formats such as podcasts—ensuring that research doesn’t just stay on paper, but informs, engages, and influences. We draw on an extensive network of trusted contacts across technology, media, think tanks, civil society, diplomatic missions, and multilateral organisations. Our CEO, Karen Allen, is a Visiting Fellow in the Department of War Studies at King’s College London, and a Research Fellow at the Centre for Information Integrity in Africa (CINIA), hosted by Stellenbosch University. These networks help us stay attuned to the latest developments and ensure our research remains relevant, responsive, and grounded in real-world insight. Research
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