Advocacy Internship - Africa - Spring 2018 Amnesty International USA

Advocacy Internship - Africa - Spring 2018 Amnesty International USA

The Advocacy/Government Relations Program is part of Amnesty International USA (AIUSA), which works to promote human rights in the U.S. and worldwide.  AIUSA is dedicated to holding the U.S. government and governments around the world accountable to international human rights obligations and commitments.  The Advocacy/Government Relations Program leads AIUSA’s policy advocacy targeting U.S. lawmakers, with priority attention given to refugee protection and defending human rights activists. 

INTERNSHIP OVERVIEW

Interns will have the opportunity to work on federal advocacy on human rights issues in Washington, D.C. The internship can be part-time or full-time and requires a minimum six-week commitment for Spring 2018. 

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Interns will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience by working directly with the Advocacy Director for Africa. Interns will gain experience in human rights research and advocacy including but not limited to developing and implementing advocacy strategies and materials, contact with governmental bodies and officials, conducting legislative research, drafting memoranda and blogs, managing databases, analyzing emerging areas of relevant law and government policy, tracking the progress of legislation in the United States Congress, and learning about the international human rights framework. Interns will also be responsible for researching and documenting issues related to U.S. foreign policy and human rights in their area of focus, as well as attending and summarizing briefings, hearings, and other NGO events. 

Experience with political advocacy and/or grassroots activism, especially related to refugees and asylum-seekers, is also desirable.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

This Internship is open to college students who will have completed their first year of college before the internship commences.  Interns should possess the following:

• Demonstrated familiarity with Africa and human rights in Africa
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent research skills, especially the ability to conduct congressional research
• Proactive problem-solving skills and strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in French, Swahili, Amharic, or Yoruba is a plus

Apply here.