Crisis Group are seeking a EU Advocacy and Research Assistant

The intern will support the daily work of the EU advocacy team and the Vice President for Europe by conducting research into EU policy and conflict situations of relevance to Crisis Group, producing research memos and background materials, and assisting with advocacy tasks, including scheduling and attending meetings on behalf of the team as required. This position is for a highly motivated young professional or recent graduate looking to gain hands-on EU policy and advocacy experience and country and issue-specific knowledge of conflict prevention and resolution as pertaining to crises covered by Crisis Group.

EU Advocacy and Research Assistant

Responsibilities:

• Monitor EU institutions’ websites, review and prepare summaries and analysis of EU policy documents for the EU advocacy team and other staff as relevant.

• Prepare regular news summaries and updates on EU policies and institutions, as well as EU Member state developments for the EU Advocacy team and other staff as relevant.

• Assist with research and draft background material on EU foreign policy and activities for advocacy staff and field personnel.

• Assist with the organisation of advocacy meetings and other events.

• Attend advocacy meetings and other events on behalf of the team and prepare event reports and briefs.

• Provide general administrative support.

Requirements:

• At least an undergraduate degree, preferably in European studies, international relations, conflict studies, government, or similar;

• In-depth knowledge of EU foreign policy and EU decision making procedures, including sound understanding of the CSDP-related institutional framework; prior internship with the EU institutions or NATO would be an asset.

• Sound research skills with the ability to pay close attention to detail.

• Analytical skills and ability to digest complex information into concise and informative briefs.

• Strong oral and written communication and organisation skills.

• English language skills at native-speaker level a must. Advanced or at least conversant knowledge of French highly desirable. Knowledge of other European languages would be an asset.

• Possession of an EU passport, student visa, or other means of residing in Belgium for six months.

If you wish to apply please send your CV (maximum two pages) and cover letter (maximum one page) to intern.vacancies@crisisgroup.org clearly stating “EU Advocacy and Research Assistant” in the subject line and the date you would be able to start. Please do not apply using the Europass CV format. The closing date for applications is 22 June 2011.

Due to the large number of applications that we receive, we are unable to respond to each individual candidate. Please note that our internships are unpaid, though a small stipend for lunch and transport is provided.