Location: Washington, D.C. (Hybrid)
Organization: Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC)
About CIVIC
The Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the protection of civilians in conflict zones around the world. With a presence in multiple countries, CIVIC works directly with conflict-affected communities and collaborates with armed actors, governments, and international institutions. Their mission is to ensure that civilians caught in conflict are seen, heard, and protected. Through research, policy advocacy, and direct engagement, CIVIC delivers practical strategies to prevent, mitigate, and respond to civilian harm. Additional information about their work can be found at civiliansinconflict.org.
Position Summary
CIVIC is currently accepting applications for Legal and Policy Interns to join the US Program for the Fall 2025 semester. The position is based in Washington, D.C. and follows a hybrid work model. This opportunity is ideal for individuals seeking to contribute meaningfully to advocacy efforts that influence U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to civilian protection, military operations, and arms sales.
Interns will engage with key stakeholders including the U.S. Congress, the Executive Branch, and the public to promote policies that reduce harm to civilians in conflict zones. As part of the internship, candidates will also gain exposure to CIVIC’s leadership role in various policy coalitions and partnerships across Washington, D.C.’s advocacy landscape.
Nature of the Internship
This internship is unpaid and is designed to be completed for university credit through a formal internship or externship course. Alternatively, candidates may participate through a program offering an external stipend. The internship is part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules while providing hands-on experience in a dynamic policy environment.
Key Responsibilities
Interns will be integrated into CIVIC’s US Program team and contribute to a variety of ongoing projects and tasks. Responsibilities include:
- Conducting legal and policy research, with a focus on U.S. security assistance and civilian harm response mechanisms;
- Analyzing conflict-related data linked to U.S. military operations and arms exports;
- Drafting policy memos, briefing notes, and advocacy materials;
- Assisting in preparation for public speaking engagements, panel discussions, and legislative briefings;
- Attending and taking notes at coalition meetings and other advocacy-focused events;
- Supporting strategic communication efforts related to CIVIC’s US advocacy initiatives.
Candidate Profile
Ideal candidates will be enrolled in a graduate or professional program (law, public policy, international affairs, or related fields). A completed undergraduate degree is required. Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in international humanitarian law, human rights law, U.S. foreign policy, and issues surrounding civilian protection in armed conflict.
Additional qualifications include:
- Strong qualitative research and writing abilities;
- Demonstrated clarity, conciseness, and organization in written communication;
- Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively within a team;
- Excellent interpersonal and note-taking skills;
- Proficiency in summarizing complex discussions, meetings, and legal or policy texts;
- Experience with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office tools, particularly Word and Excel;
- Flexibility, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously.
While these qualifications reflect the background of successful interns in the past, CIVIC values diverse experiences. Candidates who are motivated to learn and believe they can contribute meaningfully to the position are encouraged to apply, even if they do not meet every listed requirement.
Application Process
Applications will be accepted through Friday, July 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM EST. Interested applicants should apply directly through CIVIC’s career portal.
Additional Information
- CIVIC does not offer employment sponsorship; applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
- As part of its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, CIVIC actively encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
- CIVIC does not accept unsolicited résumés from recruiting agencies and will not pay placement fees without prior written agreements with approved agencies.
Join a mission-driven organization that believes every civilian caught in conflict deserves protection. Contribute to meaningful policy work and make a tangible impact on how the U.S. engages in conflict settings around the world.
