Internship Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has a mission to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified. With over 173 member states and offices in more than 100 countries, IOM works to harness the potential of migration while addressing its challenges. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration, including humanitarian assistance, migration management, and the integration of migrants into host communities. IOM is committed to fostering a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees can thrive professionally while contributing to the organization's mission.

Job Overview:
The internship-programme" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Internship Programme at IOM is designed to attract talented students and graduates who have a keen interest in migration-related issues. Interns are expected to be between 20 and 36 years old and should have less than two years of relevant work experience. The programme aims to provide interns with practical experience in areas relevant to IOM's work, particularly in the Migrant Protection and Assistance (MPA) Unit at the IOM Belgium and Luxembourg Country Office. Interns will support various activities, including the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme, which assists vulnerable migrants in returning to their countries of origin. The internship offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the workings of international organizations and the Belgian government's approach to migration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will work closely with the Senior RMM Associate and the Senior AVRR Associate to assist in the implementation and follow-up of project activities. Responsibilities include preparing and managing application files in databases, supporting pre-departure formalities, compiling invoices for payments, drafting meeting reports and IOM documents, organizing events and conferences, and contributing to public information dissemination. Interns will also assist in identifying and developing project ideas, participate in project coordination meetings, and provide clerical support to the MPA team and other project teams as needed. Additional tasks may be assigned as required, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess excellent writing and drafting skills, strong communication abilities, and organizational skills. A first working experience or internship in the national public sector or NGOs related to migration or project management is highly desirable. Knowledge of Belgian policies regarding the integration of beneficiaries of international protection and community sponsorship is considered an advantage. Interns should demonstrate a commitment to IOM's values and competencies, including teamwork, accountability, and effective communication.

Educational Background:
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as Migration Studies, Communications, International Relations, Sociology, or Anthropology from an accredited academic institution. They must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in the final year of a first university degree programme, be enrolled in a graduate school programme, or have graduated within the last 12 months. Accredited institutions are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have less than two years of relevant work experience. While prior internships or work experience in the public sector or NGOs related to migration or project management is preferred, it is not mandatory. The focus is on candidates who are eager to learn and contribute to IOM's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in Dutch and French is advantageous, as IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish. Language proficiency will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This internship is subject to local recruitment, meaning only individuals with a valid residence and work permit for Belgium are eligible. Interns are expected to secure a scholarship to cover living costs during the internship, with potential sources including the Flanders Trainee Programme, Wallonie-Bruxelles International, or the Erasmus+ program. The start date of the internship will depend on funding availability. IOM reserves the right to contact only shortlisted candidates. Interns may receive a small monthly stipend to help offset costs, but those receiving financial support from other sources will not be eligible for this stipend. IOM provides coverage for occupational accidents and illnesses but does not offer evacuation or medical insurance for non-occupational issues. Interns must provide proof of their own medical insurance before starting work. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process.