About this role
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Washington, DC is looking for a Global Dialogue and Digital Policy intern. The Intern will work closely with the program directors for Global Dialogue and Digital Policy . The start date for the internship will be March 1, 2027 .
T he Global Dialogue program starts from the recognition that our planetary boundaries are at a breaking point and that our multilateral systems often fail to provide adequate solutions. As a result, the Heinrich Böll Foundation Washington, DC takes a new approach to Global Dialogue: we strive to rethink global economic power structures and work for a more inclusive culture of international cooperation that responds to the needs of all groups in our global society. We seek to foster international dialogue on a sustainable, democratic, equitable and human rights-based approach to development.
The Digital Policy Program promotes transatlantic and global dialogues on the digital transformation of our societies. It works to advance standards for inclusive digital governance that supports human rights and democracy, promotes a shared technology future, and protects our planet.
Applications will be accepted until October 30, 2026 .
Applicants must submit a US-style resume, cover letter, and challenge statement. Please include the challenge statement in the same document as your cover letter.
Challenge statement:
Please write a short (max 250 words) reflection on how one personal experience or belief has shaped a concrete change you want to see for a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world in the next fifteen years. You may, but do not have to, address digital technology such as AI, international development, or multilateral organizations.
Basic Requirements
- experience in the relevant program area
- a genuine interest in the values and mission of the foundation
- competent command of English (German is not a requirement)
- a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week for 3 to 6 months (part-time only on a case-by-case basis)
- at least 2 years of university-level experience
- currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program OR recent (< 1 year) Bachelor's degree recipients
Applications from mid-career professionals or applicants who have already completed a Master's or Ph.D. will not be accepted.
Benefits
- a monthly stipend of $700 for full-time positions and proportionally less for part-time
- 5 paid vacation days per 3 month period for full-time internships
- If required, the foundation can cover most costs associated with a J1 visa*
NOTE: Washington, DC is an expensive city. We encourage all applicants to apply for external funding and scholarships. We also recommend applicants immediately begin looking for housing when they apply.
*We cannot guarantee approval for a US visa. Please monitor the State Department website for any updates related to your eligibility.
Administrative Responsibilities
- provide logistical support for preparation and implementation of visitor programs and events
- manage front desk duties
- manage contact and program-specific databases
Communications
- develop social media content and communications strategies
- update content on our website and blogs
- write copy and analysis for a number of different formats
Research
- conduct background research on topical issues and current events
- prepare research for upcoming events, tours, and speaker's series
Capstone Project
In addition to routine tasks, interns are required to complete a capstone project on a topic of their choosing. Some examples include:
- 5-10 page policy paper (https://us.boell.org/2015/08/14/deterrence-detention-deportation-child-migrants-united-states-european-union)
- interview with policy experts (either article (https://us.boell.org/2017/06/01/lgbtq-community-under-trump-interview-sharita-gruberg)
or video)
- script for a 2-3 min explanatory video (https://www.facebook.com/boellstiftung/videos/10154209101698329/)
- series of short blog pieces (http://route16.boellblog.org/2016/07/13/agypten-da-war-doch-was/) or op-eds