Advocacy & Policy Intern, Fall 2021 at Physicians for Human Rights (PHR)

Internship Description

Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is looking for a capable and enthusiastic intern wishing to gain direct experience in developing and implementing human rights advocacy campaigns and policy strategies. The advocacy intern will work closely with the PHR advocacy team in developing advocacy strategies, attending advocacy meetings, and monitoring current NGO partner and policymaker actions.

This internship is ideal for a student interested in a career in human rights or humanitarian advocacy or policy. You will be given exposure to a variety of PHR’s international and domestic advocacy and policy efforts on issues such as human rights in armed conflict, medical neutrality, international anti-torture initiatives, international justice, refugee and asylum protection, use of excessive force, and COVID-19 related advocacy.

The advocacy intern will attend departmental and staff meetings, as well as regular learning and social events with other interns and staff from PHR to round out the learning experience and complement PHR-provided career mentoring.

PHR internships are unpaid. Candidates may be able to arrange academic credit and should check with their individual academic institutions for requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Undertaking advocacy and policy research and analysis with a view to assisting with the development of advocacy and campaigns strategies
• Monitoring relevant current events and advocacy opportunities at the global level and domestic level for internal discussion with PHFR staff
• Assisting with the development of research, policy papers, blog posts, press releases, and internal memos regarding PHR’s research, investigations, and advocacy initiatives.
• Contributing to the development of strategic partnerships to promote PHR’s advocacy priorities.
• Assisting with general program and administrative work, including meeting preparations, background research, data entry, and internal reporting.

Qualifications and Experience

• Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program of study required; previous coursework in international development/relations, public policy, human rights, or related field preferred but not required.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills required, including excellent editing skills.
• Excellent research and analytical skills required.
• Ability to work collaboratively and professionally with PHR staff and external partners
• Demonstrated interest in and commitment to human rights
• Mature judgment, strong integrity, and ability to maintain strict confidentiality required.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and follow-through
• Previous experiences with policy or advocacy, through coursework, volunteer, or professional experience at local, national, or international level strongly desirable.

Location and Hours

• The intern will be based entirely due to PHR’s evaluation of coronavirus health risks.
• We welcome applications from candidates located out of state.
• Hours can be flexible to accommodate different types of schedules.
• The internship will commence in September with at least a 10/12-week commitment