Policy and Advocacy Intern

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a prominent non-governmental organization (NGO) based in the United States, established to provide humanitarian aid and development assistance in fragile and conflict-affected regions. With a mission to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the complex challenges faced by communities recovering from disasters, conflicts, and economic collapse. Mercy Corps is recognized for its commitment to innovation and collaboration, working closely with local partners and stakeholders to implement effective programs that promote sustainable development and resilience.

Job Overview:
The Policy and Advocacy Intern will play a crucial role in supporting the Mercy Corps Policy and Advocacy team, which serves as the primary liaison between the organization and external partners, particularly the U.S. government. The intern will engage in various activities aimed at promoting policies that align with Mercy Corps' mission and values. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the intersection of international policy, humanitarian aid, and development. Interns will be involved in tasks such as conducting policy analysis, preparing advocacy documents, and participating in meetings with key stakeholders. The position is designed to provide hands-on experience in the policy-making process and enhance the intern's understanding of U.S. foreign assistance and its implications for global development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: conducting policy and practice analysis to support advocacy initiatives; assisting in drafting various advocacy documents such as reports, briefing notes, and social media content; attending relevant meetings and Congressional hearings, providing summaries of key issues discussed; organizing meetings with Congressional offices and maintaining a database of interactions; reviewing and summarizing findings from internal and external reports; communicating policy updates to the Mercy Corps community; and coordinating with other teams within Mercy Corps to ensure alignment and collaboration on advocacy efforts. The intern will also be expected to engage in strategic planning and contribute to the development of materials for both internal and external audiences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Policy and Advocacy Intern position should possess a university degree in progress or recently completed in a relevant field such as International Relations, Public Policy, Public Administration, or International Development. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a strong interest in humanitarian and development issues, along with a background in policy or international relations. Essential skills include solid writing, editing, and research capabilities, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in computer applications, particularly MS Word, Excel, and Google applications, is required. Additionally, candidates should exhibit a flexible work attitude, capable of collaborating effectively in a team setting while also working independently when necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes a university degree in progress or recently completed within the last year in a relevant discipline such as International Relations, Public Policy, Public Administration, or International Development. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of policy-making and advocacy in the context of humanitarian aid and development.

Experience:
While prior experience is not strictly required, candidates with previous exposure to administrative roles, Capitol Hill experience, or knowledge of Congressional processes will be preferred. Experience in campaigning for electoral candidates or issues, as well as thematic expertise in areas such as security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, climate change, peace and governance, or humanitarian assistance, will also be advantageous. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and grow within the field of policy and advocacy.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in English. While not required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the regions where Mercy Corps operates may be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This internship is part-time, requiring a commitment of 20 hours per week, with at least one day per week expected to be spent in person at the Mercy Corps office in Washington, DC. The internship is scheduled to run from May to August 202

• Interns will receive access to Mercy Corps' online tools, training, and supervisory support throughout the duration of the internship. However, interns will be responsible for their own costs related to accommodation, travel, and living expenses, as well as providing their own laptop for remote work. The position is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in policy and advocacy within a leading humanitarian organization.