About this role
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Washington, DC is looking for a Foreign Policy and Communications intern. The intern will work closely with the program director for Foreign & Security Policy and our Head of Communications. The start date for the internship will be March 1, 2027 .
The Foreign & Security Policy program supports a broad conception of security policy and aims to increase transatlantic and global solidarity to chart a more peaceful, feminist, and sustainable future.
The foundation’s communications work ranges from writing internal briefings on a broad variety of topics to designing graphics to explain complex issues, and everything in between.
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) statement on a recent development in international relations. In what ways does it advance or regress a progressive vision for a multilateral world? What would be a recommendation for reform to move towards a more inclusive system?
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