IR Theory

Paid internships in various fields, especially in international relations, present a host of advantages for students and recent graduates. By participating in these programs, individuals gain invaluable work experience while also receiving financial compensation in the form of a salary or stipend. This not only helps to offset educational costs but also enhances their professional development. Moreover, paid internships frequently serve as a gateway to potential full-time employment opportunities, as employers often seek to retain talented individuals who have already demonstrated their capabilities during the internship period. As a result, these opportunities play a crucial role in shaping the careers of young professionals, setting them on a path toward a successful and rewarding future in their chosen field.

Center of Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Internships

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a distinguished bipartisan non-profit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., USA, provides a wealth of opportunities through paid internships in diverse fields such as research, public policy, writing, and project development. Interns benefit from specialized training and the development of crucial policy skills throughout their assignments. Aspiring candidates can apply directly to specific departments or programs, tailoring their internship experience to align with their interests and career goals. With the application window opening three times a year, eligible candidates encompass college juniors, advanced students, and recent graduates who possess the eligibility to work in the United States. CSIS internships offer a gateway to a world of possibilities, cultivating the talents and potential of future leaders in the field of international affairs.

American Foreign Service Association Internships (AFSA)

These highly competitive internships cater to distinct areas, encompassing Communications and Educational Outreach, Journalism and Editorial, Labor Management, and Outreach. Aspiring talents, whether undergraduate or graduate students eligible to work in the U.S., can eagerly apply for these coveted opportunities.

Located in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., AFSA internships provide an exceptional platform for young professionals to engage directly with the intricacies of diplomacy and foreign affairs. Moreover, the hands-on experiences and valuable contributions made during the internship period can potentially lead to consideration for full-time positions within the esteemed organization. As interns gain insights from seasoned experts and industry veterans, they become equipped to make a lasting impact in the realm of international relations.

Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)

A unique aspect of CFR’s summer internship offerings is their adaptability to remote and virtual settings, enabling interns from various locations to participate actively in critical global issues. Moreover, these internships provide unparalleled exposure to leading foreign policy experts, fostering an environment of intellectual growth and mentorship. By participating in CFR’s prestigious internships, young talents gain valuable insights, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop a solid foundation for future careers in the field of international relations and diplomacy.

German Institute for Security and International Affairs

United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

The USAID internship program provides valuable opportunities for students enrolled in various educational institutions to gain hands-on experience and explore potential careers in federal service. Interns have the chance to work in diverse areas such as economic growth, agriculture, education, health, environment, democracy and governance, conflict prevention, and humanitarian assistance. By contributing to impactful projects, interns actively contribute to USAID’s mission of promoting sustainable development and addressing global challenges.

• Successful completion of the USAID internship program may open doors to permanent Civil Service employment, providing interns with a pathway to long-term careers in international development and public service. This makes the program an excellent launchpad for individuals interested in making a difference on a global scale.

• Furthermore, in addition to opportunities in the United States, USAID may also offer paid internships in countries where the agency is actively engaged. These international internships provide a unique cross-cultural experience, allowing interns to immerse themselves in the challenges and opportunities of development work in specific regions.

The USAID internship program serves as a stepping stone for aspiring professionals passionate about international development, offering a comprehensive learning experience and the potential for impactful careers in global development and humanitarian assistance.

Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations

Gateway House, a renowned foreign policy think-tank based in India, plays a pivotal role in fostering discussions and scholarship on India’s foreign policy and its position in global affairs. Through engaging leading corporations and individuals in insightful debates, the organization aims to shape India’s role in the ever-changing international landscape.

• As interns at Gateway House, individuals get the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the institute’s mission by working on various projects within Editorial & Content, Operations, or Research Departments. These projects enable interns to develop practical skills, gain valuable insights, and actively participate in shaping foreign policy discourse.

• Eligible applicants for Gateway House’s internships must be pursuing a Master’s degree or be in their fifth year of studies in a five-year degree program. This eligibility criterion ensures that interns possess the necessary academic foundation to contribute effectively to the think-tank’s endeavors.

• The internship duration spans a minimum of 90 days, allowing interns to delve deeply into their assigned projects and make a substantive impact. For exceptional interns, there is the possibility of extension, providing them with additional learning and growth opportunities.

Gateway House’s internship program is located in the vibrant city of Mumbai, India, offering a unique cultural and professional experience. To support interns during their tenure, the institute provides a monthly stipend of Rs. 5000, acknowledging their dedication and commitment to the organization’s goals.

With Gateway House’s internship, participants gain an enriching experience, preparing them for a career in foreign policy and diplomacy and empowering them to play an active role in shaping India’s global engagements.

The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs

The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA), located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is a prominent diplomacy think tank that specializes in foreign policy and economic diplomacy. AIDIA offers aspiring individuals a unique opportunity to delve into the realms of international relations and foreign policy-making through its enriching internship program.

• Interns at AIDIA are exposed to a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment, gaining both practical experience and theoretical insights into the intricacies of global diplomacy. They have the chance to work closely with seasoned experts and researchers, contributing to meaningful projects and gaining valuable skills that will aid their professional growth.

• Eligible applicants for AIDIA’s internships must either be in their final year of a bachelor’s degree or enrolled in a master’s degree or Ph.D. program, reflecting the institute’s commitment to nurturing emerging talents in the field. The internship duration can vary, ranging from three to six months, which may include summer internships to accommodate students’ academic schedules.

Full-time interns at AIDIA are compensated with a minimum stipend, recognizing their dedication and efforts during the internship period. This stipend ensures that interns can focus on their learning experience and make the most of their time at the institute. AIDIA’s internship program offers a promising platform for those passionate about diplomacy, international affairs, and shaping the future of global relations.

Women’s Foreign Policy Group (WFPG)

The WFPG (Women’s Foreign Policy Group) is a pioneering independent and nonpartisan educational membership organization dedicated to fostering global engagement and enhancing the leadership, visibility, and participation of women in the realm of international affairs. Their mission revolves around promoting diversity, inclusivity, and women’s empowerment in shaping global policies and decision-making processes.

• WFPG offers part-time internships that provide aspiring individuals with the unique opportunity to gain practical experience in international affairs and diplomacy. While these internships are unpaid, full-time interns who commit to 3.5 months during the academic year or three months during the summer may be eligible for a stipend of $1000 upon successful completion of their internship. This stipend acknowledges their dedication and supports their educational pursuits.

• To be eligible for WFPG internships, applicants must be currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from a Bachelor’s or Master’s program, reflecting the organization’s commitment to nurturing emerging talents. 

Additionally, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements to work in the United States, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and guidelines. WFPG internships offer a rewarding experience for those passionate about international relations and the advancement of women’s leadership on the global stage.

Fund for Peace (FFP)

FFP (Freedom House) is a distinguished American non-profit research and educational institution headquartered in Washington, D.C. Committed to advancing democracy and human rights globally, FFP offers enriching paid internships every semester, presenting exceptional learning opportunities for aspiring professionals in the field of international relations and humanitarian work.

• Interns at FFP are entrusted with significant responsibilities, gaining firsthand experience in various aspects of democracy promotion, human rights advocacy, and international cooperation. They have the chance to collaborate with experts in the NGO and international communities, broadening their perspectives and developing essential skills for a career in this dynamic field.

• FFP’s internship program caters to diverse schedules, offering both part-time and full-time positions to accommodate students and recent graduates. Part-time interns receive a stipend of $350 per month, while full-time interns receive $700 per month, providing valuable financial support during their tenure.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Remarkable performance during the internship may open doors to potential full-time employment, making FFP internships a gateway to a rewarding and impactful career in the realm of international affairs and human rights.

National Democratic Institute of International Affairs (NDI)

NDI (National Democratic Institute) is a highly regarded non-partisan and non-profit organization headquartered in Washington D.C., dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness of democratic institutions worldwide. With a mission to strengthen democratic governance, NDI collaborates with partners in developing countries to promote transparency, inclusivity, and accountability within their political systems.

• As part of its commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders, NDI offers paid internships in the regions where the institute operates. These internships provide aspiring individuals with the invaluable opportunity to immerse themselves in the practical aspects of establishing and bolstering democratic institutions and processes. Participants gain hands-on experience, working alongside experienced professionals and local stakeholders, contributing to meaningful projects that aim to improve the democratic landscape.

• Eligible applicants for NDI’s internships include undergraduate, graduate, or recent graduate students, who possess a keen interest in democracy, governance, and international development. Additionally, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements to work in the country where the internship is located, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and facilitating a seamless and enriching experience for all interns involved.

United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC)

UNSSC, the United Nations System Staff College, is a renowned knowledge management and learning institution located in Turin, Italy. It provides enriching internship opportunities that focus on three core areas: Leadership and Management, Peace and Security, and Sustainable Development. These internships are designed to equip participants with valuable skills and insights into the workings of the United Nations and its global initiatives.

• To be eligible for these internships, applicants must hold a university degree at the Master’s or Ph.D. level or be in the final year of their Bachelor’s degree program. UNSSC welcomes candidates from diverse academic backgrounds, fostering a vibrant and inclusive learning environment.

• Interns at UNSSC are provided with a stipend of €450 per month, which assists in covering basic living expenses during the internship duration. The experience is available in both Turin, Italy, and Bonn, Germany, presenting candidates with the opportunity to engage with different cultural contexts and international perspectives.

This internship program at UNSSC offers a unique chance for aspiring professionals to gain practical experience, contribute to global issues, and make a meaningful impact on sustainable development, peace, and security efforts worldwide.

American Foreign Service Association (AFSA)

Eligible applicants must be undergraduate, graduate, or recent graduate students. This internship opportunity offers a valuable hands-on experience in various fields, providing a platform for aspiring individuals to develop their skills and gain exposure to real-world scenarios. The program aims to nurture young talents and foster their professional growth.

• Stipends for interns vary based on the area of internship and hours worked, ensuring that participants receive fair compensation for their dedication and efforts. The stipend amounts range from $350 to $850 per week, offering financial support to help cover living expenses during the internship period.

• Moreover, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements to work in the United States, either as a citizen or through proper work authorization documentation. This is essential to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory guidelines and to facilitate a seamless onboarding process.

By encouraging diversity and inclusivity, this internship program welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, striving to create a dynamic and enriching learning environment for everyone involved.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

DFA is a department of the Government of Ireland, responsible for promoting Ireland’s interests in the European Union and other international organizations. DFA offers internships in its Political Division, covering areas like Conflict Resolution, Human Rights, Disarmament, and the Middle East and North Africa. Applicants must hold a first or upper-second-class honors’ undergraduate degree. Interns receive a fixed stipend depending on their area of work, and only EEA citizens are eligible for the internship program.

These diverse paid internships in International Relations offer exceptional opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain valuable experience and contribute to important global issues. Each program provides unique experiences and training, making them highly sought after by ambitious individuals seeking to make a difference in the field of international affairs.

To wrap up

In conclusion, paid internships in international relations present a multitude of advantages for students and recent graduates seeking to launch their careers in this dynamic field. Beyond the financial support they provide, these opportunities offer a chance to gain valuable work experience, develop essential skills, and establish meaningful connections with leading organizations and experts in the industry.

• The range of internships available spans various geographical locations, addressing a wide spectrum of global issues. Whether it’s participating in cutting-edge research at prestigious think tanks, contributing to humanitarian efforts, or working closely with international organizations, each internship offers a unique pathway for personal and professional growth.

• As students and young professionals embark on their journey to make a positive impact on the global stage, these paid internships provide a stepping stone toward future success in international relations. By fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of global affairs and diplomatic relations, these programs equip interns with the tools to become influential changemakers in an increasingly interconnected world. With diverse options available, aspiring individuals can find the perfect fit for their interests, skills, and aspirations. 

Overall, the opportunities presented by these paid internships create a powerful avenue for young talents to contribute to a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous world while honing their expertise and pursuing rewarding careers in the realm of international relations.