Internet Governance Reform Internship

About the Organization

Access is an international human rights organization dedicated to defending and extending the digital rights of users at risk around the world. With offices in Brussels, New York, Santiago, and Tunis, we combine innovative policy, user engagement, and direct technical support, and work globally with activists, civil society, and policymakers to build technical capacity and advocate for open and secure communications for all.

Internet Governance Reform (IGR) Initiative and Internship

Internet governance gets at the heart of who should run the internet and how. In the wake of recent revelations of mass surveillance, this issue has never been more contentious. Our Internet Governance Reform initiative aims to keep decisions about the internet open, transparent, inclusive, and rights-respecting. The future of the internet is literally on the line.

The IGR Intern will work directly with one of our senior policy analysts and support us in analyzing and contributing to international and national policy processes, advocating with governments and companies, building coalitions, and educating the public about important developments in Internet governance.

Interns can expect the following responsibilities, tasks and experiences:

• To gain specialized knowledge in internet governance and policy 
• Be mentored and trained by a member of our policy team 
• Research, write, and edit policy briefs and position papers with full attribution 
• Prepare external and internal advocacy materials and write blog posts 
• Meet partner groups and participate in on- and off-site meetings and strategy sessions 
• Attend and contribute to our team meetings - Gain insight into how international NGOs work 

Qualifications

A successful applicant will be enrolled in (or a recent graduate of) a program in law, political science, international relations, or have an interest in technology, digital and human rights, or political participation. Preference will be given to candidates in a masters, or equivalent, program.

Being well organized, motivated, and reliable will also help your application. So will proven research and writing skills and fluency in a foreign language, but if you only speak English, that’s fine too.

Interns will ideally work out of our amazing New York City Office. However, due to our love of the internet, we’re happy to talk virtually and applicants will be considered from locations worldwide.

Time Commitment

• One full academic term (usually 3 to 4 months) 
• Minimum of 16-20 hours per week (more if desirable; negotiable depending on specific circumstances of candidate) 
• A small stipend may be available. 
• Start date – ASAP 

Application Requirements

To apply, send a copy of your CV, a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the position, and two references (An academic and a character reference) to internships@accessnow.org.

Please place “Internet Governance Intern – [Your Name]” as the subject line.

Deadline: ASAP with applications accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.