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Summer Intern - New York

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

New York Office, Summer 2012

Independent Diplomat is seeking an intern to work in its New York office.

Applications close on 30 April 2012.

Independent Diplomat (ID) is a unique non‐profit venture in the world of international relations, diplomacy and conflict prevention. Staffed by former diplomats, international lawyers and other experts in international relations, ID offers independent and confidential advice and assistance on diplomatic technique and strategy to governments, international institutions, non‐governmental organizations and political groups. Independent Diplomat currently has offices in New York, London, Brussels and Juba.

ID internships provide an excellent opportunity to be closely involved in a fast‐paced international team working at the cutting edge of international affairs and diplomacy.

Internship Details

ID’s Summer 2012 internships begin in New York in early May 2012 for a mutually agreed duration of four to six months. ID prefers that its interns are available to work full-time during regular office hours.

ID operates as a dynamic team. Interns are expected to contribute across the broad spectrum of ID’s client work and geographical areas of focus. Interns’ work typically involves background research, media monitoring, preparation of official visits and assistance with drafting of meeting reports, policy recommendations and diplomatic communications. Interns should also be prepared to assist with the smooth functioning of the ID office, including thorough contributions to general office administration and event organization.

Internships are voluntary and unpaid, but home‐to‐office travel expenses will be reimbursed. Independent Diplomat is not in a position to provide immigration support or visa sponsorship.


Qualifications


Required skills and experience

The successful candidates will be well organized, professional, and able to quickly digest and analyze complex information from a variety of sources. They will have strong knowledge of, and demonstrated interest in, international affairs and diplomatic relations, especially the United Nations and other international organizations. Above all, candidates should exhibit an enthusiasm for international diplomacy, conflict prevention and dispute resolution, as well as the mission of Independent Diplomat more broadly.

Previous office experience (either paid work or internships) is essential, as is the willingness and flexibility to fit in with a small and busy team. Fluency in English, excellent writing skills, and strong IT and internet research skills are essential; fluency in other official UN languages, specifically Spanish and French, would be an advantage. Experience with website design/editing, HTML, graphic design or video editing would be valued.

Focus area

Given ID’s current operational priorities, successful candidates will likely possess the following skill sets:

Background and experience on Africa including:

  • A bachelor’s degree, with strong preference for a master’s degree (completed or in progress) in a related field;
  • Knowledge of peace and security issues in Africa, specifically Sudan, the Horn of Africa (Somalia) and/or the Maghreb;
  • Familiarity with the United Nations, in particular the structure and functions of the UN Security Council, and the African Union;
  • Field experience in these regions would be a distinct advantage.

Contact Details


Email:
jobs@independentdiplomat.org

Application Instructions


Please send a CV or résumé (maximum two pages), including the names and contact details of two potential referees, and separate covering letter (maximum one page) pasted into the body of the email to jobs@independentdiplomat.org. Please include your name as well as the words ‘New York Africa Internship – Summer 2012,’ in the email subject line, as applicable. Applications close on 30 April 2012.

The covering letter should:

  • Explain the reasons for your interest in an internship position with ID;
  • Demonstrate your suitability for the role, including skills in the area of focus;
  • Indicate your preferred length of internship (no less than 4 months) and your work status.

The CV or résumé should include the names and contact details of two referees, ideally an academic reference and a current or recent employer.

Due to the large number of applicants, we regret that we are unable to confirm receipt of applications, provide feedback to unsuccessful candidates, or pay travel expenses for interviews conducted in person in New York.

For further information about Independent Diplomat, please visit our website at: www.independentdiplomat.org.