Refugees International advocates for lifesaving assistance and protection on behalf of 42.5 million refugees and displaced persons worldwide, and 12 million people who are stateless. We are an independent organization, and do not accept any government or UN funding.

RI’s DC office is seeking graduate students to provide 24 to 40 hours/week of support to RI’s Climate Displacement Program (The Bacon Center for Climate Displacement).

RI’s Bacon Center for Climate Displacement advocates for increased protection of vulnerable populations displaced by, or at risk of displacement from, natural disasters and other climate-related changes. Regional focus areas include West Africa, Latin America, and South and East Asia. A stipend is available.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend briefings and meetings within the humanitarian community, government agencies, think tanks, and the like. Provide notes to the Climate Displacement Program Manager.
• Conduct research and draft written materials (internal memoranda, blogs, etc.) on issues relating to climate displacement.
• Draft advocacy letters. Past letters have been aimed at the humanitarian community, Congressional Members, State Department staffers, the Administration, and the UN.
• Compile and disseminate news updates on the Bacon Center’s work and issues related to climate displacement.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

The successful candidate will:

• Be enrolled in a degree program in international affairs, international relations, public policy or law;    
• Possess strong writing skills, knowledge of a variety of computer applications, attention to detail, and ability to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously and independently;    
• Must be available to work a minimum of 24-40 hours per week;
• Must have an interest in humanitarian, environmental and/or displacement issues and advocacy;
• Knowledge and experience with nonprofits a plus.

TO APPLY

Please email your application by March 31, 2013 with the following documents to jobs@refugeesinternational.org with “Climate Displacement Internship” in the subject line:    

• Cover letter;
• Resume;
• Two 3-page writing samples, preferably on a topic related to international development or international affairs; and
• 2-3 references (with phone numbers & email addresses) from individuals familiar with your work.

Please note that only those individuals whose qualifications match the current needs of the organization will be considered. No phone calls please.