NATO Internships on Peace and Security

NATO internships open doors for future peace and security professionals

Have you ever wanted to know how the Alliance works from the inside? On 26 March, NATO began taking internship applications for 2013. Young graduates and research students from a wide range of academic disciplines are invited to apply by 30 April 2012.

As an international organization, NATO is characterised by diversity.  It is comprised of people from different backgrounds, cultures, work styles, values and ways of thinking. This is reflected in the Organization’s internship programme, which offers opportunities in various areas, such as political science, international relations, IT, media, finance and human resources.

Charles Andreo, a French-Brazilian, took up his internship with NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division after completing a masters degree in international relations at Bristol University.

“As an intern at NATO you really have to step up your game and be on top of the subjects you are dealing with”, he says.  “Also,  there is an excellent group dynamic between all interns, generating a vibrant social life in Brussels.”

Charles works in the NATO Countries Section of Public Diplomacy Division and was also assigned to a special team dealing with media operations in connection with the crisis in Libya. “NATO is truly a unique professional environment that stimulates your intellectual capacities and boosts your professional credentials”, he says.

Various opportunities

There is a broad range of possible thematic orientations: former students of graphic design, library science, journalism, law enforcement, aeronautics or engineering might also find a unique opportunity to gain international experience in peace and security. Knowledge of Russian or Arabic is especially welcome.

Barbara Gregori, a graduate in Political Science from Italy was an intern in NATO’s Operations Division. 

Barbara says, “this is the best time to join NATO: the Alliance is undertaking a series of reforms to become leaner and more efficient, reshaping itself to cope with new security challenges. Young professionals will have the opportunity to learn, support and contribute to build up this new organisation.”

Having specialised in Afro-Asian affairs and studied Arabic for two years, Barbara then completed a masters in Humanitarian Emergencies.  Although already possessing a wealth of experience, she still feels that NATO has a lot to offer interns.

“The internship programme represents a valuable working experience for young professionals with different backgrounds and age, willing to deepen their knowledge on collective defence matters,” she says.

Although some interns stay on at NATO after the internship to complete their assignments or to take up full-time employment, many move on to other international organisations.  Whatever their long-term ambitions, the NATO internship experience will surely help them to achieve their goals.

To apply or learn more, visit the NATO Internship Programme page (www.nato.int/internships).