Giovanna Solari is the Head of Unit and Project Director for electoral missions at DT Global, overseeing the implementation of election support and observation projects under the European Commission’s Election Observation Missions (EOM) Framework Contract 2026.
With more than 20 years of experience in international electoral assistance and observation, Giovanna has extensive expertise in the design, budgeting, coordination, financial management, and implementation of complex election missions worldwide. Before joining DT Global, she spent two decades with the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM), where she held senior positions within the Elections Unit and played a leading role in the implementation of EU-funded Election Observation Missions, Election Expert Missions, Exploratory Missions, and Election Follow-Up Missions.
Since 2017, Giovanna has served as Project Director under successive EU Election Framework Contracts, providing strategic leadership, quality assurance, risk management, and operational oversight throughout all phases of mission implementation. She has managed highly complex international operations and has worked both in headquarters and in the field as Project Manager, Project Development Officer and Head of Unit, for more than 50 EU electoral missions across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and other regions.
Prior to specializing in electoral support, Giovanna worked for nearly a decade with international NGOs in humanitarian assistance and development, particularly in the Horn of Africa, and authored several publications on development-related issues.
Quelle est la chose la plus cool dans votre travail ?
The coolest thing about my job is that it allows me to experience countries, all over the world, from the inside, in a way that would be difficult to achieve otherwise. Elections are a unique moment in a nation’s life, revealing its history, challenges, aspirations, and dynamics; every mission offers a fascinating opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of a country and the realities of the people who live there. What I also love is that no two missions are ever the same. There is always a new challenge to tackle, requiring creativity, teamwork, and quick problem-solving. Over the years, I have encountered so many unexpected situations and memorable adventures that I sometimes think I should write a book about them one day.
Quel conseil donneriez-vous aux autres sur la vie ?
Always remember that every problem has a solution. It may not always be obvious, and it may require patience, creativity, and perseverance, but there is almost always a way forward. Throughout my career (and personal life), I have faced countless unexpected challenges, setbacks and unexpected situations and I have learned that a focus on finding solutions (rather than dwelling on obstacles), with optimism and resilience, is often the key to success. Stay positive, adapt when needed, and keep moving forward - things have a way of working out when you don't give up.
