The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Ethiopia National Office, together with the FES African Union Cooperation Office and the FES African Migration Policy Centre (FES AMPC), has opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
This internship opportunity is designed for motivated graduate students interested in international relations, political affairs, development policy, migration, governance and communications. Selected interns will gain practical experience supporting research, policy events, communications activities and programme implementation within a leading political foundation working across Africa.
The internship will take place between September and November 2026 and will run for approximately 3 to 4 months. A monthly allowance will be provided to successful interns.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with selections finalised by 20 August 2026.
The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is a German political foundation committed to promoting democracy, social justice, international cooperation and sustainable development.
Through its offices and programmes across Africa, FES works with governments, civil society organisations, researchers, policy experts and young professionals to support dialogue and strengthen democratic participation.
The Addis Ababa internship programme brings together three FES teams:
- FES Ethiopia National Office
- FES African Union Cooperation Office
- FES African Migration Policy Centre (FES AMPC)
Interns will have the opportunity to engage with projects connected to African governance, migration policy, regional cooperation and development issues.
Internship Details
Organisation: Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES)
Programme: Internship Programme 2026
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Duration: 3–4 months
Period: September–November 2026
Working Language: English
Financial Support: Monthly allowance provided
Application Deadline: Rolling basis (final selection by 20 August 2026)
Internship Responsibilities
Selected interns will support the work of all three FES teams and contribute to ongoing research and programme activities.
Typical responsibilities include:
Research and Policy Support
Interns will assist with:
- Conducting thematic research
- Collecting and analysing information on political and development issues
- Preparing background documents
- Supporting policy-related projects
- Drafting reports and summaries
Events and Programme Assistance
Interns will gain experience supporting high-level policy engagements by:
- Assisting with event planning
- Supporting conferences, seminars and workshops
- Attending policy events in Addis Ababa
- Preparing meeting documentation
- Writing meeting minutes and reports
Communications Support
Interns will contribute to communication activities through:
- Supporting social media content development
- Assisting with communication materials
- Helping promote FES activities and publications
- Supporting digital outreach initiatives
Office and Administrative Support
Interns may also assist with:
- General office coordination
- Project documentation
- Internal administrative tasks
- Collaboration with programme teams and partners
Eligibility Requirements
The internship is targeted at students who are in the final stages of a Master’s degree programme.
Eligible fields include:
- Political Science
- Economics
- International Relations
- International Law
- Journalism
- African Studies
- Development Studies
- Related social science disciplines
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong interest in political, social or development issues
- Interest in FES thematic areas
- Ability to work independently
- Initiative and willingness to learn
- Strong research and communication skills
- Social media and digital communication abilities
- Professional proficiency in English
Skills and Experience
Successful candidates should have:
- Strong analytical abilities
- Excellent writing skills
- Ability to prepare reports and summaries
- Interest in African affairs and international cooperation
- Ability to work in a multicultural environment
- Good organisational skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks
Previous experience in research, communications, policy analysis or event coordination will be an advantage.
Financial Support and Important Information
FES provides selected interns with a monthly allowance during the internship period.
However, applicants should note that FES does not cover:
- International or domestic travel costs
- Visa expenses
- Accommodation costs
- Insurance
- Meals
Applicants should therefore ensure they can arrange these costs independently before applying.
For non-residents, internships are generally limited to a maximum of 90 days due to visa regulations.
Why Apply for This Internship?
This internship provides an excellent opportunity for students seeking careers in:
- International organisations
- Policy research
- Diplomacy
- African regional affairs
- Development cooperation
- Migration policy
- Communications
- Public sector programmes
Interns will gain direct exposure to policy discussions taking place in Addis Ababa, one of Africa’s most important diplomatic centres and the headquarters of the African Union.
The experience can strengthen academic research, professional networks and future career opportunities in international development and governance.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page motivation letter indicating preferred internship period
Applications should be sent to:
Ms. Elshadai Surafel
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
The final selection process will be completed by:
20 August 2026
