he Advocacy/Government Relations Program is part of Amnesty International USA (AIUSA), which works to promote human rights in the U.S. and worldwide. AIUSA is dedicated to holding the U.S. government and governments around the world accountable to international human rights obligations and commitments. The Advocacy/Government Relations Program leads AIUSA’s policy advocacy targeting U.S. lawmakers, with priority attention given to refugee protection and defending human rights activists.
Interns will have the opportunity to work on federal advocacy on human rights issues in Washington, D.C. The internship requires a minimum six-week commitment for the Summer of 2019.
GR Interns will engage in human rights research and advocacy including but not limited to developing and implementing advocacy strategies and materials, engaging with governmental bodies and officials, conducting legislative research, drafting memoranda and briefing documents, blogs, managing databases, analyzing emerging areas of relevant law and government policy, tracking the progress of legislation in the United States Congress, and learning about the international human rights framework.
By the end of the internship, the intern will learn:
- Researching and documenting issues related to U.S. foreign policy and human rights in their area of focus, as well as attending and summarizing briefings, hearings, and other NGO events.
- Collaborating with AIUSA Country Specialist -Groups and the Advocacy Directors on AIUSA priorities and supporting member actions and activities as needed.
- Helping implement Social Media initiatives including drafting Blogs, tweets and other platforms, helping draft Op-Eds and helping manage GR webpage.
- Attending Congressional hearings and briefings and other NGO briefings and conferences reporting back on those events to staff, Country Specialists and IS staff as appropriate.
- Distributing AI materials to government officials, policymakers, think tanks and peer organizations through AIUSA communication platforms.
Skills learned
- An understanding of the US Foreign Policy machinery and process in regard to human rights.
- US Congressional operations and politics.
- Challenges and opportunities working within a global human rights NGO.
- Real time experience with issues related to International Affairs.
- Learning to write for Impact
- Core advocacy skills: strategic research, communications, targeting, working in coalitions
We also review applicants of recent graduates who may be seeking the same type of mentorship and educational focus related to their career choice or educational background.
The following would be beneficial for entering or program:
- Familiarity with human rights
- Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Research skills
- Ability to be proactive, have problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Second languages, a plus