Spring 2027 Foreign Policy & Communications Internship

The Heinrich Böll Foundation Washington, DC is looking for a Foreign Policy and Communications intern. The intern will work closely with the program director for Foreign & Security Policy and our Head of Communications. The start date for the internship will be March 1, 2027.  

The Foreign & Security Policy program supports a broad conception of security policy and aims to increase transatlantic and global solidarity to chart a more peaceful, feminist, and sustainable future. 

The foundation’s communications work ranges from writing internal briefings on a broad variety of topics to designing graphics to explain complex issues, and everything in between.  

Applications will be accepted until October 30, 2026.

Applicants must submit a US-style resume, cover letter, and challenge statement. Please include the challenge statement in the same document as your cover letter. 

Challenge statement: 

Please write a short (max 250 words) statement on a recent development in international relations. In what ways does it advance or regress a progressive vision for a multilateral world? What would be a recommendation for reform to move towards a more inclusive system? 

Basic Requirements  

• experience in the relevant program area  

• a genuine interest in the values and mission of the foundation 

• competent command of English (German is not a requirement) 

• a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week for 3 to 6 months (part-time only on a case-by-case basis) 

• at least 2 years of university-level experience  
• currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program OR recent (< 1 year) Bachelor's degree recipients 

Applications from mid-career professionals or applicants who have already completed a Master's or Ph.D. will not be accepted. 

Benefits 

• a monthly stipend of $700 for full-time positions and proportionally less for part-time 

• 5 paid vacation days per 3 month period for full-time internships 
• If required, the foundation can cover most costs associated with a J1 visa* 

NOTE: Washington, DC is an expensive city. We encourage all applicants to apply for external funding and scholarships. We also recommend applicants immediately begin looking for housing when they apply. 

*We cannot guarantee approval for a US visa. Please monitor the State Department website for any updates related to your eligibility.  

Administrative Responsibilities  

• provide logistical support for preparation and implementation of visitor programs and events  

• manage front desk duties 
• manage contact and program-specific databases 

Communications 

• develop social media content and communications strategies 

• update content on our website and blogs 
• write copy and analysis for a number of different formats 

Research 

• conduct background research on topical issues and current events 
• prepare research for upcoming events, tours, and speaker's series 

Capstone Project 

In addition to routine tasks, interns are required to complete a capstone project on a topic of their choosing. Some examples include: 

• 5-10 page policy paper 

• interview with policy experts (either article
  or video) 

• script for a 2-3 min explanatory video 

• series of short blog pieces or op-eds