Independent Diplomat Spring 2014 Internships-New York.

Organization: Independent Diplomat 

Position Title: Independent Diplomat Spring 2014 Internships.

Location: New York.

Hours & Compensation: 40 hours/week. Unpaid.

Application Deadline: February 20, 2014

 Internship Description 

Independent Diplomat seeks interns to start work in its New York office in March 2014.

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, Washington DC, London, Brussels, Sydney, and Hargeisa.

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 NY’s spring 2014 internships begin in March for a mutually agreed duration of four to six months. ID prefers that 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, and preparation of official visits as well as 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, strong IT and internet research skills, strong social media skills, and a detail-oriented approach to work are essential; fluency in other official UN languages, specifically Arabic and French, would be an advantage. Experience with website design/editing, HTML, graphic design or video editing would be helpful.

Given ID’s current operational priorities, the following attributes would be an advantage:

• Background and experience in climate change and energy, including:
• Understanding of the international policy framework on climate change, in particular negotiations under the UNFCCC;

• Familiarity with the workings of the UN;
• Understanding of major policy priorities for the large emitters, and for those countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change;
• Background in international law, international public policy, or international energy.

• Background and experience in the Middle East and North 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 the MENA region, particularly Western Sahara and Syria;
• Familiarity with the United Nations, in particular the structure and functions of the UN Security Council;
• Field experience in these regions would be a distinct advantage.

• Background and experience inInternational Lawincluding:
• A law degree
• An academic background in public international law, so as to assist in the development of the legal dimension of the diplomatic advice ID provides to its clients, and to enhance ID’s clients’ positions under international law
• General legal skills so as to assist with ID’s institutional obligations, including in co-operation with ID’s network of pro bono lawyers
• Familiarity with the workings of the HRC and ICC.

• Background and experience in External Relationsincluding:
• A bachelor’s degree, with strong preference for a master’s degree (completed or in progress) in International Relations, journalism, public relations, or a related field;
• Superior social networking skills and knowledge of and/or experience in social and traditional media;
• Prior experience researching individual donor prospects and grant funding opportunities;
• Proficiency with graphics programs, such as Adobe Photoshop, and interest/experience in basic Web coding are pluses;
• Excellent research and writing skills;
• The ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects at one time.
  How to apply

  Please send (i) a CV or résumé (maximum two pages); (ii)a separate cover letter (maximum one page); and (iii) two short writing samples to [email protected]. Please include the words ‘New York Climate Internship – Spring 2014,’ ‘New York Legal Internship –Spring 2014,’ ‘New York MENA Internship –Spring 2014,’ or ‘New York External Relations Internship-Spring 2014’ in the email subject line, as applicable. Applications close at 5:00pm (Eastern Standard Time) on Thursday, 20 February.

  The cover letter should:

  • explain the reasons for your interest in an internship position with ID
  • demonstrate your suitability for the role;
  • indicate your preferred length of internship (no less than 4 months), and your availability to work full or part-time.

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

  Due to a large expected 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