Job notes

Employer: Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
Employment type: Internship/Traineeship
Organisation type: NGOs & Nonprofits
Areas: Programmes & Events, Policy & Advocacy, Administration, Research
Issue areas: Democracy & Governance, Human Rights & Social Justice, Gender & Equality

The Global Unit for Democracy and Human Rights is a core pillar of the Heinrich Böll Stiftung’s international work. We focus on:
Strengthening democratic institutions and civil society globally,
Advancing human rights, with a special emphasis on gender democracy, LGBTIQ+ rights, and minority protection,
Countering authoritarianism and promoting civic participation,
Supporting human rights defenders and political activists in restrictive environments,
Fostering global solidarity through transnational networks and advocacy.

Purpose of the traineeship

The purpose of this traineeship is to support the work of Global Unit for Democracy and Human Rights while providing the trainee with meaningful learning opportunities and practical experience. The trainee will contribute to ongoing activities across different work streams, gaining insight into project delivery, operations, communications and organizational management.

Key Responsibilities

Administrative and Operational Support
Assist with day-to-day administrative and organizational tasks
Support Administration Support with logistics
Assist in preparing reports and meeting materials

Project Support
Contribute to implementation and monitoring of project activities
Assist with project documentation
Support coordination with internal and external stakeholders

Research and Analysis
Conduct background research on topic relevant to the Unit’s work
Gather, analyze and summarize information from various sources
Prepare briefing notes, summaries, outputs

Events and Outreach
Support the preparation and organization of events, workshops, meetings, conferences
Assist with participant management, logistics and follow-up activities
Attend relevant meetings and prepare minutes or summary notes where required

Communications
Assist with content preparation for websites, newsletters and other communication channels
Contribute to the dissemination of information and project results

Profile and Requirements

Essential Qualifications
Master’s degree in relevant field, such as Political Science, Economics, International Relations, Communications, Law, Social Sciences or related disciplines
This traineeship is intended as an early-career opportunity. Preference will be given to candidates with limited professional experience (including internships)
Strong organizational and administrative skills with excellent attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a multicultural and collaborative environment
Demonstrated interest in the foundation‘s mission, values and areas of work

Desirable Qualifications
Previous internship, volunteer, or extracurricular experience relevant to our activities
Knowledge of German, French and/or Dutch
Experience supporting projects, events, communications, research, or stakeholder engagement activities

Eligibility
Candidates must be eligible to work in Belgium
Candidates must be available for a full-time traineeship in Brussels from September to December 2026 under Convention d’Immersion Professionelle (CIP)

Application Process

Deadline: Sunday, 16 August 2026, 23:59 CEST

Required Documents
CV (max. 1 page)
Motivation letter (max. 1 page), including:
Your relevant experience and skills
Your interest in democracy and human rights work
Copy of Master's diploma or proof of expected graduation

Send your application:

Subject Line: “Trainee – Global Unit Democracy & Human Rights”

Email: [email protected]

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Interviews will take place in late August 2026 (online or in-person).

Additional Information
Start Date: 15 September 2026
End Date: 31 December 2026
Working Hours: Full-time (37 hours/week).
Location: Brussels, Belgium (hybrid work options may be discussed).
Visa Support: We cannot provide visa sponsorship. Applicants must have a valid work/residence permit for Belgium or EU/EEA citizenship.
Diversity & Inclusion: We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The Heinrich Böll Stiftung is committed to gender democracy and anti-discrimination.