The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant societies whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people.
We seek to strengthen the rule of law; respect for human rights, minorities, and a diversity of opinions; democratically elected governments; and a civil society that helps keep government power in check.
We help to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights.
We implement initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media.
We build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information.
Working in every part of the world, the Open Society Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.
The Open Society European Policy Institute (OSEPI) is the EU policy arm of the Open Society Foundations. We work to influence and inform EU policies, funding and external action to ensure that open society values are at the heart of what the European Union does, both inside and outside its borders.
OSEPI is currently looking for a project intern to start in January 2013. The internship is for six months and the intern receives monthly remuneration if not already enrolled in a scholarship programme or receiving a grant.
The intern’s main tasks will be related to providing support to the work of OSEPI in the field of EU policy on equality/antidiscrimination and illegal migration, although s/he will be asked to complete tasks in other areas as required. The successful candidate will work at OSEPI’s office in Brussels under the supervision of a program officer.
The intern will provide support in the following:
- Monitoring of EU policies and news in specific areas
- Liaising with research consultants working in these areas, including monitoring the timely fulfilment of contract duties and expenses
- Attending relevant meetings at EU institutions, organisations and other internal and external events/ conferences
- Organising meetings: logistics, administration and follow-up budgets
- Assisting with forward planning/rolling advocacy calendar
- Updating the contacts databases
- Preparing briefing notes, meeting reports and other factual and analytical documents
- Performing other related duties as required
- Masters level degree in the field of political science, law, public administration and management
- Experience with comparative social science research is an asset
- Experience in organising events and/or coordinating meetings (logistics, administration) and managing budgets
- Understanding the functioning and policy context of the EU, especially as regards the Justice, Freedom and Security portfolio is an asset
- Experience within an NGO or international organisation is desirable
- Interest in the activities of OSEPI and the Open Society Foundations
- Computer literacy, with a good knowledge and experience of Microsoft Office
- Fluent spoken and written English is essential. Working knowledge of other EU languages is an asset
- Attention to detail, good communication and interpersonal skills required
Please download and email an application form by January 12, 2013 to osepi@opensocietyfoundations.org. Include “PROJECT INTERNSHIP” in the subject line. Only applications forms will be considered, no cover letter or resume.