Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Advocate at Refugees International

REPORTS TO:
Director of Regional Programs

PURPOSE:The Advocate is the core program position at the staff level for Refugees International. Advocates travel three to four times a year to regions and countries experiencing humanitarian crises and carry out assessments of the level and causes of displacement. These assessments involve interviews and discussions with displaced persons, UN and NGO personnel, and government officials. Upon completion of the assessment missions, Advocates are responsible for documenting their findings in concise policy reports, and devising and carrying out an advocacy strategy to advance their recommendations.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • In conjunction with a mission team member, conduct assessments of humanitarian crises and the level and causes of displacement as well as make recommendations for improving humanitarian assistance. Assess the impact of crises on particular individuals and communities through interviews with the displaced. Conduct interviews with other individuals knowledgeable about the situation, including NGO staff and United Nations and government officials.
  • Summarize analysis of humanitarian crises and how to address them in concise policy pieces called field reports.
  • Devise and carry out an advocacy strategy to assure the implementation of recommendations published in the field report. Work closely with colleagues, including the President, Director of Regional Programs and Director of Policy and Advocacy, to develop and carry out the agreed strategy.
  • Hold frequent meetings with U.S. government officials, UN personnel, and other stakeholders to advance the overall advocacy agenda of the organization and to carry out a plan of action related to a particular region.
  • Write additional material for RI’s website; draft statements for Congressional hearings and briefings in consultation with the Government Relations Advocate and Communications team.
  • Develop media contacts, conduct interviews and contribute blogs for the agency’s website as needed to advance the advocacy agenda of the organization.
  • Represent the agency at coordination meetings organized by NGOs, the U.S. government, the UN, think tanks, and other relevant institutions; lead the organizations coalition work on assigned regions and countries.
  • Collaborate with fellow advocates and other RI staff to advance agency thinking on key issues and to support achievement of the agency’s mission.
  • Collaborate with the Development Department on fund raising efforts by drafting segments of grant proposals, meeting donors, drafting/contributing to progress reports, helping to organize Board and donor missions, and giving public talks on refugee issues.
  • Perform other desk-based research as necessary, when not on mission.
  • Perform other reasonably related duties as assigned.
SPECIAL EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor’s degree in international humanitarian affairs, political science, human rights, Middle East and/or African studies; Master’s degree preferred; five years or more professional experience involving some combination of overseas work, preferably with refugees/internally displaced persons or in crisis situations; experience working for US based NGOs and/or direct experience with US advocacy and US policy highly desirable; experience in the Horn of Africa extremely advantageous.
SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:
  • Familiarity with the key agencies of the international humanitarian system, including the OCHA cluster system and funding mechanisms.
  • Good communication skills, especially clear writing and public speaking.
  • Familiarity with digital photography and digital videography very useful.
  • English language fluency required, and Arabic and Swahili language skills desired.
  • Ability to work well with others in small teams.
  • Willingness to travel to unsafe and isolated places with limited external support.
  • Flexibility and sense of humor. 
HOW TO APPLY:
Apply by 2 September 2011 by sending a message to jobs@refugeesinternational.org. Please insert "Advocate Horn" in the subject line and include a cover letter, CV, and writing sample. Only finalists will be contacted. Salary commensurate with experience.

Intern at Globalization101.org

The Levin Institute has openings for unpaid fall interns for the Globalization101.org project. This project focuses on the Globalization101.org website, which contains high-level issues in depth, news analyses, and videos about globalization issues, such as trade, the environment, culture, and health. The site is also in the process of developing a new Human Rights2.0 Toolkit.

We are seeking interns who are passionate about international affairs and ready to research and write content for the site. Interns also have the opportunity to get involved in marketing the website using social networking sites and platforms.

Strong written and oral communication skills, as well as analytical skills are required. We are currently accepting resumes.

The Levin Institute is located in New York City. However, this internship can be done virtually. Start-date and end-date are flexible. Time commitment is flexible as well.

Please e-mail your resume, cover letter and a writing sample (short one-page news analysis about an issue related to the site).

Contact: Rebecca Smolar Project Manager, Globalization101.org The Levin Institute Ph: 212-317-3566 or Rebecca.smolar@levininstitute.org

Boren Scholarships and Fellowships for Learning Critical Languages

Boren Scholarships and Fellowships provide unique funding opportunities for U.S. undergraduate and graduate students to add an important international and language component to their educations. They focus on geographic areas, languages, and fields of study that are critical to U.S. national security, broadly defined, and underrepresented in study abroad.

The 2012 application deadlines are:
Boren Scholarships Deadline:
February 9, 2012
Each campus sets an earlier campus deadline.
Boren Fellowships Deadline: January 31, 2012 


For more information on this opportunity, visit the Boren Scholarships and Fellowships program website:


http://www.borenawards.org/

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Staff Attorney at Nationalities Service Center

Nationalities Service Center (NSC) is a non-profit organization that provides social, educational and legal services to immigrants and refugees in the Greater Philadelphia area. Our strength lies in the diversity of our clients and services. Since NSC’s founding in 1921, our mission has been to help immigrants and refugees participate fully in American society. Each year, we help approximately 4,000 individuals from over 90 countries. We implement this mission by meeting five main objectives:
  • Protecting the legal rights of all immigrants
  • Empowering immigrants and refugees, including the most vulnerable, on the path toward social adjustment
  • Strengthening immigrant communities
  • Advocating for fair and humane policies toward immigrants and refugees
  • Promoting the value of diversity in the Philadelphia region
Position Summary
The Staff Attorney will provide direct legal services in immigration law matters. The Staff Attorney will work as a member of NSC’s Legal Services Department and represent clients in immigration court hearings, appeals before the BIA and federal court, and filings with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and U.S. Department of State. The Staff Attorney will conduct client consultations and determine appropriate legal strategies. The Staff Attorney will perform outreach to educate the community on immigration issues and NSC’s services.
The Staff Attorney has internal contacts with the entire administrative and programmatic staff and external contact with clients, court officials, government workers and the general community. The Staff Attorney has access to confidential NSC information and is expected to handle such information with integrity and professionalism. The Staff Attorney has regular contact with members of the community and is expected to represent NSC in a professional manner.
The Staff Attorney reports directly to the Director of Legal Services and participates in departmental activities as necessary.
Essential Functions
  • Represent clients in removal proceedings before EOIR Immigration Courts, Board of Immigration Appeals, and federal court.
  • Prepare cases for court litigation, includes meeting and corresponding with clients and witnesses, and preparing written motions and briefs.
  • Perform legal research and use independent judgment and decision-making to determine appropriate strategy for removal cases and affirmative applications to administrative agencies.
  • Represent clients at interviews before USCIS, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), meet with clients to prepare applications and responses, and respond to requests for evidence.
  • Prepare administrative filings, including affirmative filings with USCIS, CBP, ICE and U.S. Dept. of State.
  • Supervise and direct the work of legal assistants.
  • Attend and participate in weekly legal services department staff meetings and case review meetings.
  • Meet with potential clients for consultation appointments, determine appropriate course of action, and prepare initial case files.
  • Perform general office administration duties.
  • Perform community outreach activities as directed.
  • Maintain case files in complete, professional manner in accordance with NSC procedures and legal requirements.
  • Adhere to all applicable legal and ethical standards.
  • Maintain regular communication with clients in accordance with applicable ethical standards and best practices.
Non-Essential Functions
  1. Attend relevant workshops or join professional groups as necessary to maintain professional knowledge and licensure.
  2. Adhere to NSC’s confidentiality guidelines and ensure the appropriate handling of sensitive information.
  3. Facilitate and attend relevant staff meetings to promote communication and execution of goals.
  4. Complete special projects specific to the function of the department or as needed as directed by the Director of Legal Services.
  5. Other duties as assigned within the scope of position expectations.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  1. Understanding of NSC Legal Services Department goals and objectives and ability to work and contribute as part of a larger team.
  2. Knowledge of immigration law and procedures, legal ethics, and interrelationship of immigration law and other areas of law such as criminal and family.
  3. Ability to perform legal research and understand the law and relevant procedures in order to develop a strategy and/or argument that is persuasive.
  4. Ability to present an argument and advocate for and influence others in court.
  5. Ability to manage multiple tasks by carefully setting priorities, meeting deadlines, and scheduling time efficiently.
  6. Basic understanding of computer operations and ability to use a variety of common software programs including Microsoft Office.
  7. Ability to effectively communicate in person, by phone, or in writing with individuals of multi-cultural backgrounds.
  8. Ability to organize tasks in an efficient manner and follow-up and follow-through with strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
  9. Ability to work with other people through a cooperative effort.
  10. Strong interpersonal skills as demonstrated by compassionate, courteous, cordial, cooperative, and professional interaction with diverse groups of clients, co-workers, partner agencies, social services agencies, and the general community.
  11. Adhere to all NSC policies and procedures.
  12. Attend all NSC in-services as required.
Experience, Education, and Licensure
Minimum Experience: Experience representing clients in immigration law matters. Foreign language fluency in Spanish or French preferred.
Minimum Education: J.D. degree from an accreditedU.S. law school.
Licensure: Admission to the bar in any state.

Please email detailed letter of interest and résumé to:

Pamela Jones-Burnley
Nationalities Service Center
1216 Arch Street, 4th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19107

Please no phone calls. Applications will be accepted until September 15 , 2011 . NSC does not discriminate in employment because of age, sex, race, religion, national origin, and sexual orientation or for any reason not relevant to the qualifications of the position.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Consultant - FIDH Representative to the U.N. Headquarters

The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH- www.fidh.org) seeks to hire a consultant for six months, to act as its representative to the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The Representative will be responsible for the implementation of FIDH’s advocacy activities before the UN for the considered period, under the supervision of FIDH's Director for Intergovernmental Organizations (based in Brussels), and in collaboration with FIDH’s Geneva Permanent Representative to the UN.
The advocacy activities will reach out to the members of the UN Security Council, the UN General Assembly, the UN Secretary General’s Office, the UN agencies, and the UN treaty bodies that meet in New York. Specific advocacy work will also be carried out before the U.S. Administration and U.S. Congress in Washington D.C. on a number of projects.

Specific responsibilities will include:
  • Implementing FIDH’s advocacy activities to the UN headquarters and to the US administration, which include:
    • organizing specific advocacy visits of human rights defenders from around the world to the UN and US institutions, and developing follow-up strategies beyond the visits;
    • preparing, presenting and discussing advocacy position papers, open letters, reports, and press releases on either country-specific or thematic-specific situations;
    • evaluating the influence of UN decision-making on the promotion and respect of human rights;
  • Interacting with FIDH’s geographic and thematic desks based in Paris and around the world, in order to keep FIDH staff team and member organizations closely informed of developing UN policies impacting international human rights and international criminal law.
  • Engaging, as well as representing FIDH before the American and international media on various topics.
Country-specific focuses will include, but is not limited to: Democratic Republic of Congo, Iran, Burma, Israel/Palestine, Yemen, Syria, Libya, or Russia. Thematic focus includes but is not limited to: counter-terrorism, human rights defenders, or international justice.

Required Skills and Experience:
  • Minimum requirement of a Master (or J.D.) in law, political sciences, or international relations, with a excellent knowledge of international human rights law, and the UN institutions;
  • At least 2 years of relevant professional experience, preferably in human rights advocacy before intergovernmental or regional institutions;
  • Written and spoken fluency in English and in French. Spanish or other languages are a plus;
  • Ability to represent FIDH’s work and partners at a high and diplomatic level;
  • Excellent and proven oral and written skills;
  • Strong sense of individual initiative, ability to think conceptually and creatively;
  • Ability to manage a project with autonomy;
  • Ability to work under time pressure.
Please send your resume and cover letter via email to Antoine Madelin, amadelin@fidh.org All applications should be received by August 31st 2011.

Monday, August 22, 2011

International Climate Protection Fellowship

The International Climate Protection Fellowships enable prospective leaders to conduct a research-related project of their own choice during a one-year stay in Germany. Submit an application if you are a prospective leader from a non-European threshold or developing country (see list of countries) working in the field of climate protection and resource conservation in academia, business or administration in your country. Applicants must provide a clearly visible leadership potential either by experience in a first leadership position or be able to provide appropriate references. They must also have completed their first university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent academic degree)  less than 12 years prior to the start of the fellowship (1 September 2012) with outstanding results. They must also hold a further academic or professional qualification (Master’s, PhD, LL.M., MBA etc.) or have extensive professional experience in a leadership role (at least 48 months at the time of application). Furthermore, they are expected to have gained initial practical experience through involvement in projects related to climate protection and resource conservation. The fellowship will enable the recipients to conduct a research-related project of their own choice with hosts in Germany whom they are free to choose themselves.

The programme, which is being funded under the International Climate Initiative by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, includes a preparatory intensive language course in Germany, a several-week introductory seminar, a two-week training course and a final meeting in Berlin. These activities will enable you to gain additional insights into academic, social, cultural, economic and political life in Germany.

In addition to applicants who have been trained in the natural and engineering sciences, candidates who have been engaged in legal, economic and societal issues relating to climate change are encouraged to apply for this programme. Every year, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation is granting up to 20 International Climate Protection Fellowships to prospective leaders from the countries named. The programme is currently scheduled to run until 2012.

Closing date (date of receipt at Humboldt Foundation): 15 December 2011

Program Officer at the Open Society Foundation

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. To achieve this mission, the Foundations seek to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. On a local level, the Open Society Foundations implement a range of initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. At the same time, we build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. The Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.

Investor and philanthropist George Soros established the Open Society Foundations, starting in 1984, to help countries make the transition from communism. Our activities have grown to encompass theUnited Statesand more than 70 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa andLatin America. Each Foundation relies on the expertise of boards composed of eminent citizens who determine individual agendas based on local priorities.

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex (LGBTI) Rights Initiative is part of OSF’s Rights Initiatives. Since its establishment in 2009, the LGBTI Rights Initiative has been working in partnership with OSF’s vast network of programs and foundations to advance the human rights of LGBTI persons globally. 

The Initiative works to:
  • Support strategic efforts that seek to end human rights violations against LGBTI people and that advance non-discrimination protections ensuring that LGBTI people have access to the full range of human rights guarantees and protections;
  • Strengthen local grassroots LGBTI rights movements that work to carryout advocacy campaigns that advance recognition of LGBTI rights and positively shift public opinion.
  • Provide overall coordination and support to other OSF efforts to address issues faced by LGBTI populations that violate their rights.
The Initiative provides critical core support to LGBTI rights groups at the national and regional levels as well as for global advocacy on these issues and supports the expansion of donor philanthropy on behalf of LGBTI rights issues. The LGBTI Rights Initiative is global and supports advocacy efforts in different regions of the world with the priority regions for OSF in this rights area being Sub-Saharan Africa and the former Soviet Union.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. The Program Officer will work with the Deputy Director of the Rights Initiatives and other relevant OSF staff to implement a grant-making and advocacy strategy. The position requires working as a member of the Rights Initiatives core team as well as significant coordination with other OSF staff. This will include continuing to develop new partnerships within the OSF network to advance LGBTI rights. The Program Officer will participate in identifying advocacy opportunities at the national, regional and international level, engage relevant OSF programs and foundations and external partners and develop strategies to act upon these opportunities. The Program Officer will play a key role in managing a grants portfolio, working internationally with a range of civil society organizations at the domestic, regional and international levels in order to support the development of strong projects and organizations. Overall responsibilities will include: assisting in developing strategic grant-making priorities, identifying possible partners and working with them to develop appropriate proposals; reviewing and preparing grant portfolios for discussion and decision; participating in relevant conferences and workshops and conducting site visits; communicating and negotiating with network representatives, other donors and grantees to advance LGBTI rights and bring resources to the field; and maintaining contact with grantees to support projects through to completion. OSF may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.

Funding Portfolio:
The Program Officer will assist in the planning, development and implementation of the LGBTI Rights Initiative funding strategy. The funding portfolio will seek to advance the rights of LGBTI persons by supporting strategies that seek to end human rights violations against LGBTI people; that advance non-discrimination protections that are inclusive of LGBTI people; that provide redress for rights violations faced by LGBTI communities; and that strengthen grassroots, national and regional organizations working to promote the rights of LGBTI individuals. The Program Officer will play a key role in the overall implementation of the grant-making efforts, evaluate proposals and projects, conduct site visits to grantees and identify resources within the extended network and among partners to support the implementation of effective projects and the development of strong institutions.

Coordination and advocacy:
The Program Officer will coordinate with other OSF programs, projects and initiatives on LGBTI rights issues in order to represent OSF effectively at relevant global and regional meetings, donor affinity groups, and other fora as appropriate. He/she will provide technical assistance to OSF network programs and foundations in integrating LGBTI rights into their advocacy and grant-making portfolios. This could involve convening meetings, seminars and training workshops for OSF staff and/or partners as well as developing resource materials to build expertise on issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. The Program Officer will also work with relevant OSF programs and offices to seize advocacy opportunities, to amplify the advocacy efforts of grantees and partners and to develop partnerships with other donors.

Program Administration:
The Program Officer will play a key role in overseeing the financial requirements of the LGBTI Rights Initiative grants portfolio in coordination with program management and the OSF grants management team. He/she works closely with the grantees, other team members and the legal and finance departments to ensure procedural compliance. The Program Officer contributes to and supports the development and preparation of program documentation, reporting and evaluation materials. The Program Officer will report directly to the Deputy Director of the Rights Initiatives Program and will also work as part of a broader team made up of other members of the Rights Initiatives Program.

Qualifications:
  • Five to eight years of professional experience in the implementation of policy and advocacy programs to advance LGBTI rights;
  • Experience with LGBTI rights issues in Sub-Saharan Africa and/or Eastern Europe and the formerSoviet Uniona distinct advantage;
  • Advanced degree in relevant area of study preferred;
  • Demonstrated interest in LGBTI rights particularly in the context of developing countries;
  • Understanding of international human rights mechanisms and policy-making bodies;
  • Ability to develop and implement innovative funding strategies internationally;
  • Experience working closely with civil society organizations in developing and transitional countries, building partnerships and facilitating skills exchange;
  • Creative thinker and analytical skills;
  • Excellent writing, verbal and organizational skills and an attention to detail;
  • Ability to work independently and to set and meet goals in fast-paced environment and to prioritize accordingly;
  • Team spirit and collegial and respectful working and decision-making style;
  • Foreign language skills relevant to priority regions a distinct advantage;
  • Availability and willingness to travel internationally.
Start Date: ASAP

Compensation: Commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.

To Apply:
Please email resume and cover letter with salary requirements before September 16, 2011, to: humanresources@sorosny.org Include job code in subject line: PO/LGBTI
OR
Open Society Foundations
Human Resources – Code PO/LGBTI
400 West 59th Street
New York,New York10019

FAX: 646.557.2672
No phone calls, please. The Open Society Foundations is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Associate Legal Officer at the Open Society Foundations

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. To achieve this mission, the Foundations seek to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. On a local level, the Open Society Foundations implement a range of initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. At the same time, we build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. The Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.

Investor and philanthropist George Soros established the Open Society Foundations, starting in 1984, to help countries make the transition from communism. Our activities have grown to encompass the United States and more than 70 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. Each Foundation relies on the expertise of boards composed of eminent citizens who determine individual agendas based on local priorities.
The Open Society Justice Initiative uses law to protect and empower people around the world. Through litigation, advocacy, research, and technical assistance, the Justice Initiative promotes human rights and builds legal capacity for open societies. We foster accountability for international crimes, combat racial discrimination and statelessness, support criminal justice reform, address abuses related to national security and counterterrorism, expand freedom of information and expression, and stem corruption linked to the exploitation of natural resources. Our staff are based in Abuja, Amsterdam, Bishkek, Brussels, Budapest, Freetown, The Hague, London, Mexico City, New York, Paris, Phnom Penh, Santo Domingo and Washington, D.C.

In the area of National Security and Counterterrorism, the Open Society Justice Initiative is using strategic litigation and advocacy across the globe to secure justice for victims of human rights violations and ensure that decision-makers responsible for abuses be held to account. Recent work in this field has been directed at challenging European government complicity with the CIA-driven extraordinary rendition program before the European Court of Human Rights; using freedom of information laws to challenge the withholding of information relating to such complicity; challenging enforced disappearances, torture and prolonged detention without charge or trial (including a challenge before the African Commission to prolonged administrative detention under Egypt’s emergency laws); and addressing counterterrorism-related human rights abuses in East Africa, as well as other due process violations associated with the application of counterterrorism laws worldwide.

Purpose of Position: Conduct litigation, documentation and advocacy on human rights abuses associated with counterterrorism and national security policies and practices worldwide and assist in program management, development and implementation relating to these issues. Work is performed independently/under general supervision. This position will be based in our New York Office.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. OSI may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.

1. Litigation, documentation and advocacy:
  • Undertake legal and factual research for potential and ongoing litigation; interview and liase with clients; draft legal applications, briefs, pleadings and other documents for submission to domestic and regional courts and human rights bodies;
  • Write reports documenting national security/counterterrorism related human rights abuses;
  • Monitor national security/counterterrorism related human rights abuses worldwide; advocate before national and/or inter-governmental bodies/tribunals and/or the media; contact foreign, national and local experts; train partners/outside participants; and provide technical assistance;
2. Program Management:
  • Manage projects as assigned by the Senior Legal Officer;
  • Develop program-related documents;
3. Project development:
  • Assist with the conceptualization, design, management, evaluation and implementation of projects;
4. Project implementation
  • NSC Project Responsibility: Oversee running of projects with partner organizations, including maintaining regular communication with partners and National Foundation staff, participating in project events (including but not limited to project meetings, media events, networking meetings, trainings or workshops with international and regional human rights organizations), organizing and carrying out in-country visits to work on the projects and evaluate the work of partner organizations, drafting trip and project reports;
  • Review project reports, prepare terms of reference and review outside evaluations, draft press releases, prepare project descriptions, arrange and/or recommend evaluations as required;
  • Maintain contact with consultants, liaising with them on substantive, administrative and financial matters, and, in coordination with the Senior Legal Officer, NSC, supervise the delivery of financial and narrative reports;
5. Administrative and Financial:
  • Oversees the integral operation of the administrative and financial aspects for NSC work. This responsibility includes drafting budgets; processing grants, contracts, payments; organizing events and meetings; making travel arrangements; maintaining a program calendar; maintaining a database of project contacts;
6. Other:
  • Travel as approved by the Senior Legal Officer; and
  • Perform any other tasks as assigned by the Senior Legal Officer.
Education/Experience: Law Degree and three to five years legal experience preferably in the field of human rights.
Skills Required:
  • Excellent legal research and writing skills and close attention to detail.
  • Familiarity with researching international and comparative law, preferably including familiarity with researching European Court of Human Rights and African Commission case law.
  • Familiarity with human rights litigation at national or regional levels.
  • Familiarity with documenting and writing reports on human rights abuses.
  • Sensitivity and maturity in interacting with potential clients, co-counsel, advocates and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
  • Excellent oral and written communication and analytic skills.
  • Complete fluency in English.
  • Fluency in another widely used foreign language preferred.
  • Willingness to regularly travel overseas.
  • Ability to manage several projects in a fast-paced environment effectively.
  • High level of self-motivation and ability to work both independently and with others.
  • Integrity, professional discretion and ability to handle confidential matters.
Work Environment and Physical Demands: Essential functions are typically performed in an office setting with a low level of noise. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Start Date: Immediate – Position open until filled

Compensation: Commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.

To Apply: Please send cover letter, resume, names and contact information for three recent references, salary requirements and a recent English-language legal writing sample to: humanresources@sorosny.org. Include job code in subject line: ALON-OSJI
OR
Open Society Institute
Human Resources - Code ALON-OSJI
400 West 59th Street
New York, New York 10019

FAX: 646-557-2672
No phone calls, please. The Open Society Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Michigan Peace Team Interns

Michigan Peace Team Interns will have the opportunity to learn about and participate in the work of a grassroots, nonprofit international peace organization that is connected to a global network of peace organizations. A member of Nonviolent Peaceforce, Michigan Peace Team is both nationally and internationally recognized and utilized. MPT has a board of directors (our "Core Community"), six staff members, as well as a large number of volunteers. Interns’ skills and interests are matched with responsibilities and needs of MPT. 

Interns work primarily with office staff to carry out work in various committees:
  • Team Deployment Committee (for both Domestic and International peace teams)
  • Training Committee (Nonviolence Skills training for both Domestic & International teams)
  • Education Towards Empowerment Committee (newsletters, publications)
  • Development Committee (Fundraising, membership development)
  • Technology and Branding Committee (Website, social networking, etc.)
Tasks may include:
  • Assisting with newsletter development, including researching and presenting articles for publication
  • Meeting with and participating in committee meetings; may occasionally take & disseminate minutes
  • Attending/participating in a nonviolence training
  • Attending an MPT presentation(s)
  • Improving organizational packets and information dissemination
  • Assisting with website ideas, blogs, social networking sites, upkeep, etc.
  • Assisting in scheduling trainings
  • Compiling and generating listserve announcements and Team updates
  • General office tasks/activities
  • Research and publishing to our blog
  • Help with organizing sponsored events, presentations, and fundraisers.
Optional involvement for interns:
  • Participate in our Basic (8 hours) Nonviolent Skills Training. Fees are waived for interns.
  • Observe MPT associates as they act as local peace teams
  • Attend demonstrations, protests, or marches
  • Attend workshops/lectures
  • Take part in a Domestic Peace Team placement
Interns will also have access to a library of resources: books, newsletters, audiotapes, and videotapes on the work and theory of nonviolent peacemaking. 

Michigan Peace Team was founded in 1993. Its offices are located inLansing, within easy commuting distance ofMichiganStateUniversityandLansingCommunity College. To ensure a quality educational experience, MPT has a “cap” of three interns per semester. Interns receive daily supervision and ongoing mentoring. Their schedules can be flexible, although most work is done during normal office hours (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.). However, since nonviolence trainings, events, and presentations often happen on weekends and evenings, schedules can vary.

Michigan Peace Team is a member organization of the global Nonviolent Peaceforce. We work with organizations that use third party nonviolent intervention (TPNI) such as Christian Peacemaker Teams, Peace Brigades International, International Women’s Peace Service, the International Solidarity Movement, Pace e Bene, Voices for Creative Nonviolence, Women in Black and others.

What we are primarily looking for are students that are as excited about effective nonviolent conflict resolution as we are. The students' individual time commitments vary and are flexible. We support that school and work schedules have to come first. If the internship is being done for academic credit, then we rely on the academic adviser to identify how many hours the student needs to complete to receive full credit. We have no particular minimum/maximum time requirements: we only ask that the student adhere to the schedule they have developed, or call us and let us know if there's a schedule change. Most students choose to work with us 10-16 hours/week (although we have had students do as much as 40 hours/week to qualify for specific university requirements or to meet requirements for the particular scholarships they've acquired on their own). Normal office hours run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and we ask that most of the internship hours be completed during office hours to facilitate supervision.

It is our hope that interns will gain valuable knowledge and hands-on skills at the completion of their internship in various areas: nonviolent peacemaking; organizational skills; familiarity with working in nonprofit grassroots organizations; and a better understanding of third-party nonviolent intervention, the larger peace community, and the work being done worldwide for peace. Interns may also find resources for post-graduation work opportunities or service opportunities in the international peace community.

To apply for the MPT internship, please send a letter of inquiry (preferably electronically) to:
Mary L. Hanna, M.Ed. at: MaryHanna.MPT@gmail.com (subject line: Internship)
Or send a letter of interest via our website: http://www.michiganpeaceteam.org/Internships.htm or "snail mail":
Michigan Peace Team - Attn: Mary Hanna
808 W. Barnes Ave.; Lansing,MI 48910
Hours per week and start/end dates are flexible.

World Law Internship Program

Undergraduate, graduate and law students who are interested in educating about, promoting and advocating human rights and world citizenship are encouraged to apply for this 3 month, 15-20 (or more) hours per week internship (hours are flexible). Interns write to individuals whose rights have been violated and contact heads of state and ministries in order to expose violations and demand redress on the individuals' behalf. You will research and apply various human rights declarations and treaties as well as national constitutions and international human rights procedures when applicable. Excellent communication skills required and multi-lingual applicants (especially French speakers) are preferred. An interest or activism in peace, law and global politics is helpful. For more information, please contact: David Gallup, Esq., General Counsel and Internship Coordinator at 202-638-2662 in Washington, DC. You must submit a resume, cover letter, 2-3 page writing sample and a list of references. Please mail to World Service Authority, 5 Thomas Circle, NW, Washington, DC 20005 or email to legal@worldservice.org

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Intern, Asia Program at The German Marshall Fund of the US

The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is a non-partisan American public policy and grant-making institution dedicated to promoting better understanding and cooperation between North America and Europe on transatlantic and global issues.

Job Summary:
The German Marshall Fund is looking for an intern for its Asia Program. GMF’s Asia Program addresses the implications of Asia’s rise for the West—in particular, how Asia’s resurgence will impact the foreign policy, economic, and domestic challenges and choices facing the transatlantic allies—through a combination of convening, writing, strategic grants, study tours, fellowships, partnerships with other GMF programs, and partnerships with other institutions.

The intern will benefit from exposure to GMF’s network, its high level events and interactions with various policy actors. Since the internship takes place in Washington, interns are often able to attend various related events on behalf of GMF staff

Key Areas of Responsibility:

  • Conduct research; and
  • Provide administrative and event coordination support.
Qualifications and Requirements:

  • Have excellent analytical, writing skills and previous research experience.
  • Be creative, organized, self-directed and responsible.
  • Be comfortable multi-tasking, and working independently and as part of a team.
  • Must be an undergraduate or graduate student studying International Development, Economics, International Trade, or International Relations. Recent graduates will also be considered.
  • Have a strong interest in Asian security issues; a background in South Asian, East Asian or transatlantic security issues.
  • Be able to commit at least 20-35 hours per week between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Start and length of internship:
Preferred starting date: ASAP
Preferred time commitment: between 20-35 hours

Application Process:
To be considered for this position, please submit a cover letter, current resume, and short writing sample to hr@gmfus.org by COB, August 22, 2011. Please reference job title in the subject line and be sure to describe your specific dates of availability, anticipated weekly schedule, and your relevant background and qualifications for this position. Due to the high volume of responses, we will only contact candidates of interest.

GMF is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Fall Internships at the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund

FALL 2011 INTERNSHIPS
For Undergraduate, Graduate, and Law Students The Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF), founded in 1974, is the first organization on the East Coast to protect and promote the legal rights of Asian Americans through litigation, legal advocacy, and community education. For more information about AALDEF, please visit our website at www.aaldef.org.


Fall internships are available for the following program areas (open to all unless otherwise noted):
Anti-Trafficking Initiative, legal research and writing related to the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), as well as outreach, community education, and advocacy on the rights of women and youth trafficking survivors. Law students ONLY
Community Health Care Initiative, community education and outreach in the areas of immigration, government benefits, language rights, health care access and database entry of legal intakes. Undergraduate students ONLY

Economic Justice for Workers, litigation on behalf of garment, restaurant, and other low wage workers.
Educational Equity and Youth Rights, legal services, policy work, community education, research and litigation concerning educational equity, juvenile justice, affirmative action and post 9-11 hate violence and racial targeting. Law students ONLY

Housing Justice Project, community outreach/education, multi-city community planning research project and field work, and research and litigation on housing and land use issues affecting low-income Asian immigrant communities.

Immigrant Access to Justice, litigation, legal services, and organizing/outreach with communities impacted by 9-11, including special interest detainees, special registration, voluntary interviews by the government, the 9-11 absconder initiative, and local and state enforcement of immigration laws. Law students ONLY
New Jersey Asian American Legal Project, community outreach, education, and legal services to Asian Americans in New Jersey, as well as community organizing and litigation on employment-related claims for Asian immigrant workers in New Jersey.

Voting Rights, legal research and fact development under the Voting Rights Act and Equal Protection Clause challenging anti-Asian voter discrimination, advocacy on bilingual ballots, and state and local election reform; produce reports and organize public forums; work with volunteer attorneys and assist in organizing legal trainings.

Administrative Assistant, provide administrative support in preparation for AALDEF’s annual gala, including: researching for prospective dinner sponsors and silent auction donors. Computer experience with databases, graphics and web programs are helpful. Undergraduate students ONLY. Workstudy grants accepted.

Description of Internships.
Interns are supervised by attorneys and/or AALDEF staff in specific program areas. These internships are not paid positions, but academic credit can be arranged. Interns work anywhere between 8 to 25 hours per week. The internship usually commences with the start of classes and ends in early December.

Any bilingual ability should be stated in the resume. Bilingual ability is helpful but not required. Applications should also state the number of hours the intern is able to work per week and which program area(s) you are interested in. Email applications are accepted. Applications should be received or postmarked by Friday, September 2, 2011. Send a resume and cover letter (law students should include a writing sample) to:

AALDEF Fall Intern Search
Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF)
99 Hudson Street, 12th floor, New York, New York 10013-2815
Fax: 212-966-4303 or Email: info@aaldef.org


For more information, contact Jennifer Weng at 212-966-5932, ext. 212 or jweng@aaldef.org.

United Nations 2011 Young Professionals Programme

The United Nations is looking for highly qualified candidates who are ready to launch a professional career as an international civil servant. The young professionals programme (YPP) is a recruitment initiative that brings new talent to the United Nations through an annual entrance examination. For young, high-caliber professionals across the globe, the examination is a platform for launching a career at the United Nations. This programme builds upon the national competitive recruitment examination (NCRE) which was held for the last time in 2010. For information and updates on the 2010 NCRE cycle click here.


Thursday, August 11, 2011

Programme Officer, Police Reforms Programme at The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative

TheCommonwealth Human Rights Initiative(CHRI),New Delhiis currently recruiting a Programme Officer (South Asia) to spearhead its growing work on Police Reforms. The programme focuses on promoting police accountability and reform in Commonwealth South Asia includingBangladesh,India,Maldives,PakistanandSri Lanka

Job Description
The successful applicant will be part of a Delhi-based team. The work includes activities ranging from conducting workshops and consultations in the region, providing legal and comparative technical input on policing issues, building networks with diverse groups (including governments, police, civil society and media), and assisting with management activities (such as team strategy, fundraising, and donor reporting). In addition, the candidate will be required to remain abreast of developments in the region related to policing and plan advocacy on topical issues on an ongoing basis.

Qualifications
Candidates should have a minimum of three years professional work experience, with strong academic qualifications in law, social sciences or other security or criminal justice related fields. Candidates must possess exceptional research, writing and editing skills, as well as outstanding oral communication abilities in English. Language skills in Urdu, Bangla or Hindi are highly desirable. Knowledge of human rights, policing, or security sector reform is preferred, as is experience in planning and implementing advocacy strategies. An understanding ofSouth Asiapolitics is desirable.

The position is suitable for an energetic, enthusiastic and creative person who is a self-starter and interested in being based at an international organisation working out of the global south. The salary package is negotiable, but is based on moderate local wages. Candidates must be adaptable and able to work effectively in a challenging environment. 

To Apply:
Please send most recent CV, a short sample of original writing; two contactable references and true copies of educational certificates. Incomplete application will not be considered. Application may be sent to radhey@humanrightsinitiative.org latest by 31st August 2011. All applicants are urged to visit CHRI's website (www.humanrightsinitiative.org), before applying.

Legal Internships at the International Bar Association

The International Bar Association (IBA) office at London has called for internships for undergraduate law students, postgraduate law students, and newly qualified lawyers.

The IBA was founded in 1947. It is the world’s largest organization of Law Societies, Bar Associations, Law Firms and Individual lawyers. The Association is involved in cutting-edge issues affecting the international legal community. Selected interns will be assisting the IBA in developing academic papers and research on key legal topics of both local and international relevance.
 
You will have an opportunity to become involved in works like supporting the IBA's Human Rights Institute as it promotes human rights throughout the world, supporting the IBA's Legal Projects Team (Business and Economic Law) and supporting the IBA's International Criminal Court (ICC) Programme.
 
You will be required to draft policy papers on substantive legal issues as well as to assist in preparing background research for grant proposals. You will also be required to assist in implementing technical assistance programmes in developing countries.
 
Duration of Internship:
 
The internship positions are available at the Association throughout the year, but are generally divided into 3 month blocks:
 
1. January – March
2. April – June
3. July – September
4. October – December
 
A minimum of 12 weeks and a maximum of 6 months is expected from interns. Interns are expected to put in 40 hours of work per week. You will be working from the IBA office in London and when necessary, from the local libraries. Hours of work are usually from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm from Monday to Friday.
 
The interns are expected to fend for themselves, their accommodation while at London.
 
Kind of Work Assigned:
 
It is difficult to predict the kind of work assigned, as it depends on the ongoing project. Nevertheless, you may be given work regarding Grant Proposals, Speeches and Academic papers, Commercial Business Law Projects & other Law disciplines, or you may be attending IBA Conferences.
 
How to Apply:
 
You are required to send by e-mail (or post in case you do not have access to the internet), a covering Letter, your updated CV, your application Form, a letter of Reference and a writing sample on your chosen field of law.
 
Application Address:
 
The above-mentioned details have to be sent through e-mail to internprogramme@int-bar.org.
 
If you plan to send the details by post, send it at the following address:
 
Intern Programme Manager
International Bar Association
10th Floor
1 Stephen Street
London
W1T 1AT
United Kingdom
 
Deadlines for Application:
 
All the internship applications should reach the London office by the following dates:
 
Deadlines
 
For more details on the internship, please visit IBA’s website.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Intern at New York City Global Partners Program

New York City Global Partners, a non-profit organization located in the NYC Mayor’s Office,www.nyc.gov/globalpartners. promotes international cooperation between the City of New York and global cities worldwide. Its mission is to encourage New York City and its partner cities to learn from one another’s innovative solutions to common challenges. NYC Global Partners programs are international summits, an online youth exchange program, and an online resource bank of global cities’ best practices. For more information, visit:

Global Cities research intern(off-site) 
NYC Global Partners is seeking graduate interns to conduct a research project on Global Cities. Students will undertake research to identify and evaluate data related to global cities, including data related to demographics, socioeconomic indicators and a city’s infrastructure. Interns will be expected to work on this project about 10 hours per week. Research will be conducted off-site. Interns will be expected to attend regular meetings at the offices of NYC Global Partners.

About NYC Global Partners Internships
 Internships will be based at the NYC Global Partners office at 2 UN Plaza (44th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenue) unless otherwise specified. Internships are unpaid. NYC Global Partners will work with interns to comply with the requirements of any stipend or internship-for-credit program at their institution.

Objectives
 Interns will learn first-hand how a non-profit organization with an international focus operates, as well as be exposed to various municipal agencies. Interns will gain skills in research and writing, non-profit management, and event planning.

General qualifications 
Candidates must be able to assume significant responsibility and work independently. Excellent communication, organization and writing skills required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs required. Interest or experience in international affairs, city government, NGO or non-profit organization/management preferred but not required. Graduate students preferred but qualified undergraduates are welcome to apply. Database, Web/graphic design and foreign language skills preferred but not required.

How to apply 
Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to email a cover letter and resume to nycglobalpartners@cityhall.nyc.gov. Materials can also be sent by fax to 212-319-3430 or by postal mail to: New York City Global Partners, Inc., 2 United Nations Plaza, 27th Floor, New York, New York 10017

Application deadlines 
Fall 2011 Internships – August 8
Spring 2012 Internships – December 1
Summer 2012 – April 15**

International Institutions and Global Governance Intern at the Council on Foreign Relations

Council on Foreign Relations
Human Resources Office
58 East 68th Street
New York, NY 10065
Fax: (212) 434-9893
 

 
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Department: International Institutions and Global Governance
Semester: Fall 2011
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is an independent, nonpartisan membership organization, think tank, and publisher dedicated to being a resource for its members, government officials, business executives, journalists, educators and students, civic and religious leaders, and other interested citizens in order to help them better understand the world and the foreign policy choices facing the United States and other countries. Founded in 1921, CFR carries out its mission by maintaining a diverse membership, with special programs to promote interest and develop expertise in the next generation of foreign policy leaders; convening meetings at its headquarters in New York and in Washington, DC, and other cities where senior government officials, members of Congress, global leaders, and prominent thinkers come together with CFR members to discuss and debate major international issues; supporting a Studies Program that fosters independent research, enabling CFR scholars to produce articles, reports, and books and hold roundtables that analyze foreign policy issues and make concrete policy recommendations; publishing Foreign Affairs, the preeminent journal on international affairs and U.S. foreign policy; sponsoring Independent Task Forces that produce reports with both findings and policy prescriptions on the most important foreign policy topics; and providing up-to-date information and analysis about world events and American foreign policy on its website, CFR.org.
CFR’s volunteer internships give selected interns the opportunity to receive training in the area of foreign policy; as well as skills training in areas such as writing, research, and program planning.
The Council has an internship available in the Studies Department. The intern will report to a fellow in the studies department and will assist the fellow with research, editing and administrative tasks.

The responsibilities of the intern will include (but are not limited to):
  • Ongoing assistance for research on global governance issues for the program on Global Governance and International Institutions (IIGG). The intern can provide valuable assistance to ongoing research that feeds into our work, including the role of rising powers in global governance, U.S. attitudes towards global governance, and aspects of regionalism and multilateralism.
  • Finding videos and photographs in the AP archives for the program’s multimedia project, the Global Governance Monitor.
  • Monitoring and updating the IIGG planning calendar, and help in formatting, hyperlinking, and fact-checking relevant information for the CFR.org website

Qualifications:
  • Undergraduate or graduate student with demonstrated background and interest in International Affairs.
  • Word processing and Internet research skills
  • Strong research & administrative abilities
  • Excellent attention to detail & follow-through
  • Enthusiastic attitude.
CFR internships are unpaid. A modest stipend is offered upon completion of the internship.

Please mail or fax a resume and cover letter INCLUDING POSITION NAME, DAYS AND TIMES AVAILABLE TO WORK to the Human Resource Office at the above address. The Council on Foreign Relations is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Quality, diversity and balance are the key objectives sought by the Council on Foreign Relations in the composition of its workforce.

Legal Intern at China Labor Watch

Description
China Labor Watch is an independent not-for-profit organization. In the past ten years, CLW has collaborated with unions, labor organizations and the media to conduct a series of in-depth assessments of factories in Chinathat produce toys, bikes, shoes, furniture, clothing, and electronics for some of the largest U.S.companies. CLW’s New Yorkoffice creates reports from these investigations, educates the international community on supply chain labor issues, and pressures corporations to improve conditions for workers.

About Our Legal Internship:
China Labor Watch Legal Internship Program gives law students a unique opportunity to work in a non-profit legal setting and make a contribution to worker’s rights. Interns work closely with staff attorneys on current legal issues about worker’s rights law. Generally, interns research legal issues, work on case development, investigate policy issues, help staff the China Labor Watch Information and assist in preparing written materials. The interns will draft appeal letters and press releases, monitor press and events and assist with legal research. The interns will also assist with some administrative tasks related to the division’s work.

Qualifications: These internships are open to law students, law graduates and graduate students with expertise in international criminal law or international human rights law. Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated and reliable, with a strong interest in workers' human rights. Oral and written fluency in Chinese and proficiency in English OR oral and written fluency in English and proficiency in Chinese is required.

Time Commitment & Application Deadlines: 20 hours per week for a minimum of 3 months. Applications should be submitted immediately for a fall internship.

Compensation & School Credit:
While we cannot afford to pay a stipend, we will work with interns so they can obtain academic credit or outside funding.

Position Type
Student Part-Time, Fall

To Apply: Interested persons should submit a detailed cover letter, résumé, transcript and writing sample ( in English and Chinese). Email your application materials to:
clw@chinalaborwatch.org

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Immigration Policy Advisor at the US Conference of Catholic Bishops

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, a national nonprofit religious organization located in N.E., D.C. has an opening in The Office of Migration Refugee Services for a Policy Advisor.

The Policy Advisor provides expert advice and support in the development and implementation of policies considered and adopted by the USCCB Committee on Migration, including in such policy areas as legal immigration, detention, due process, border and other enforcement-related issues, migrant workers, regional migration, state and local policies affecting immigrants, and other related issues. Develops and advises on policy options; participates in advocacy to implement policy positions; prepares position papers, testimony, correspondence, comments, and other written materials; analyzes and provides input to the development of legislative proposals; analyzes and responds to legislation and administrative regulations, in coordination with USCCB offices and others. A master’s degree or J.D. with at least five years of directly related experience required (may consider an undergraduate degree and total years of directly related experience in lieu of completed advanced degree). Knowledge and understanding of the Catholic Church and its teachings required; personal computer skills required.

Apply to:

Office of Human Resources (MRS/PA/IMM) United States Conference
Of Catholic Bishops
3211 Fourth Street, N.E.
Washington, D.C. 20017-1194
FAX: 202/541-3412 or
E-MAIL: resumes@usccb.org

EOE/M/F/D/V

Sunday, August 7, 2011

International Policy Relations Intern at the International Center for Transitional Justice


INTERNATIONAL POLICY RELATIONS INTERN
The International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ) a global human rights NGO based in Manhattan, is currently accepting applications for the Summer 2011 Internship Program. Interns will work under the supervision of ICTJ’s regular staff and have the opportunity to learn about the Center’s work in key areas of transitional justice.
The International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ) is seeking a self-directed intern with an interest in transitional justice to work with its International Policy Relations team. The intern will have the opportunity to: 1) gain an understanding of multilateral mechanisms by tracking and monitoring developments within the UN; 2) contribute to research on the treatment of transitional justice issues by UN and other multilateral and regional bodies; and 3) attend meetings with relevant New York-based organizations and support ICTJ events. The intern will be based in ICTJ’s New York office, and will report to ICTJ's Director of International Policy Relations.
Qualifications:
  • ICTJ welcomes applications from graduate students from a wide range of disciplines, including international law, human rights, international development and international relations/political science.
  • Candidates should have excellent English writing and verbal skills and a high level of proficiency with Microsoft word, excel, and research databases.
  • Candidates must demonstrate an ability to work with minimal supervision as well as a high level of professionalism
  • Applicants should receive academic credit for their internship.
To apply, please e-mail your resume and cover letter by 08/31/11 tointernships@ictj.org.Please write the internship title “INTERNATIONAL POLICY RELATIONS INTERN” in the subject line of your e-mail. All internship positions are unpaid. Please note that the ICTJ is not able to obtain work authorization and visas for non-U.S. citizens and residents.