EU Advocacy Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world's worst crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC operates in over 40 countries and has a workforce of more than 14,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons, advocating for their rights, and promoting sustainable solutions to the challenges they face. The IRC's mission is to help people affected by conflict and disaster to recover and rebuild their lives, and it works in various sectors including health, education, and economic recovery.

Job Overview:
The EU Advocacy Intern will play a crucial role in supporting the EU Advocacy team at the International Rescue Committee. This internship is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of EU policymaking processes and the intricacies of advocacy work related to humanitarian issues, particularly those affecting refugees and migrants. The intern will work closely with the EU Advocacy Director and will be involved in various tasks that include policy monitoring, research, and the development of advocacy materials. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of EU advocacy while contributing to meaningful humanitarian efforts. The intern will also receive mentorship and support for professional development, making it an enriching experience for anyone interested in pursuing a career in international relations or humanitarian work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include monitoring EU policy developments related to migration, asylum, refugees, humanitarian aid, and development cooperation. This will involve conducting desk research and preparing background analyses on relevant EU policy issues. The intern will also assist in drafting advocacy materials such as briefings, position papers, and policy notes, and will contribute to the preparation of external advocacy documents and internal strategy papers. Additionally, the intern will support the organization of meetings, events, and stakeholder engagement activities, maintain internal advocacy tracking tools, and assist with note-taking and follow-up actions from meetings. The role may also involve providing additional support to the EU Advocacy team as required, contributing to team priorities and cross-team initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in EU policy, humanitarian action, migration, and refugee issues. While an academic background in political science, EU studies, international relations, law, or a related field is preferred, it is not strictly required. The ideal candidate will possess strong research and analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and strong organizational skills with attention to detail. The ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines is essential, as is a willingness to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Proficiency in MS Office applications such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams is also required.

Educational Background:
While a specific degree is not mandatory, candidates are encouraged to have an academic background in fields such as political science, international relations, law, or EU studies. This educational foundation will help the intern understand the complexities of EU policies and the humanitarian landscape, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
The position is suitable for candidates who may not have extensive work experience but possess a strong interest in the relevant fields. Previous internships or volunteer experiences in NGOs, advocacy, or related areas will be considered an asset, but the primary focus is on the candidate's passion for humanitarian issues and willingness to learn.

Languages:
Fluent written and spoken English is required for this position. Knowledge of French or any other EU language is considered an asset, as it may enhance the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to advocacy efforts effectively.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a 6-month fixed-term contract with the potential for renewal. Candidates must have the right to work in Belgium at the time of application. The position is hybrid, requiring a minimum presence in the Brussels office for 2-3 days per week. The IRC is committed to gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those with lived experiences related to displacement and migration. Reasonable accommodations will be provided throughout the recruitment process and during the internship to ensure equal access and opportunity.