Intern - Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, dedicated to the belief that a better world is possible. Founded with the mission to help people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities, Mercy Corps partners with various stakeholders to implement bold solutions in times of disaster and hardship. The organization focuses on creating sustainable change through community programs, advocacy, and partnerships, particularly in the context of climate resilience and adaptation governance.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to provide the intern with a comprehensive understanding of international climate policy and advocacy, particularly in relation to adaptation finance and the UNFCCC process. The intern will have the opportunity to develop skills in policy research and analysis, stakeholder engagement, and professional communication. The role involves supporting the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance team in various capacities, including the preparation of advocacy materials for international climate negotiations, stakeholder events, and partnership development. The intern will be expected to work in the Mercy Corps office in The Hague at least once a week, with the possibility of remote work, although any associated costs will be the intern's responsibility.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include supporting the development of advocacy materials for COP31, attending relevant meetings, conducting background research, and assisting with stakeholder events related to climate finance and adaptation. They will also help identify engagement opportunities for Mercy Corps at COP31, document outcomes, and follow up on priority actions. Additionally, the intern will assist in mapping relevant organizations and potential funding partners, conduct desk research on partnership opportunities, and support the internal ‘LLAboratory’ group focused on Locally Led Adaptation. The intern may also contribute to the team's communications efforts by developing content for social media and drafting blogs or other communications products.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be currently enrolled in or have recently completed a university degree in fields such as International Relations, International Development, Environmental Policy, Climate Change, Public Policy, or Political Science. They should demonstrate a strong interest in policy influencing, partnerships, and communications, with excellent research, analytical, and writing skills. The ability to synthesize complex information into clear outputs is essential. Candidates should be proactive, eager to learn, and possess strong communication skills in English, with proficiency in Dutch considered an advantage. Familiarity with Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint and Excel, is required, and experience with design tools like Canva is a plus.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have a university degree in a relevant field such as International Relations, International Development, Environmental Policy, Climate Change, Public Policy, or Political Science. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate policy and advocacy, as well as for engaging effectively with stakeholders in the field.

Experience:
The internship is suitable for candidates who are either currently enrolled in a university program or have recently graduated within the last year. While specific prior experience is not mandatory, a demonstrated interest in climate policy, advocacy, and partnerships is essential. Candidates should be able to showcase their research and analytical skills through academic or extracurricular activities related to the field.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Dutch is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the intern's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The internship is structured to allow for both part-time and full-time engagement, with specific deliverables to be agreed upon with the intern. The position is based in The Hague, and the intern is expected to be present in the office at least once a week. The organization promotes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to strict safeguarding and ethical standards.