The Future of Peace Operations (FOPO) program at Stimson offers unpaid internships for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Stimson is a nonprofit, nonpartisan institution devoted to enhancing international peace and security. FOPO addresses challenging analytical questions on peace operations, considers their relationship to current policy issues, and tries to build a broader dialogue on what peace operations can and should do.

A FOPO internship is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to build upon prior experience relevant to peace operations and conflict mitigation as well as for those with little experience but who can articulate a strong interest in the field. Interns are a vital part of FOPO, working closely with the program's four-member staff. They also engage in the life of Stimson overall, interacting with staff from other Stimson programs and participating in the Center's events. An internship with FOPO advances participants' knowledge and skill base and strengthens their understanding of peace operations, conflict resolution, and broader foreign policy issues.

FOPO internships are predominately research-based, but interns should be prepared in addition to assume some administrative and organizing duties. 

Specific responsibilities can include:

• Assisting with project research and analysis
• Creating fact sheets and assisting in the drafting of various documents
• Proofreading, editing, and assisting in the distribution of FOPO publications
• Representing FOPO at events around DC and writing meeting summaries
• Helping to maintain the FOPO program website

FOPO interns will assist FOPO with its work on:

• Developing a computational model for peacekeeping and peacebuilding
• Engaging community perspectives on security and protection actors
• Measuring the effectiveness of peace operations
• Enhancing the rule of law in post-conflict states
• Protecting civilians from mass atrocities
• Tracking US policy toward the UN (particularly US contributions to peace operations and related activities)

Requirements:

• Demonstrated interest in conflict resolution/prevention, international affairs, foreign policy, defense/security policy, humanitarian issues, and/or human rights
• Research skills and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing
• Familiarity with research methodologies and the ability to organize materials logically
• Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality work
• Flexibility to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Initiative, maturity, and professionalism
• Computer skills relevant to an office setting

Preferred:

• Familiarity with peace operations and their activities
• Previous research and work experience
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Access, computer programming, and/or web design
• Proficiency in French, with the ability to quickly and accurately conduct French-language research
• International experience

We welcome applications from undergraduate, graduate, and professional candidates.

Applicants must be able to commit to a minimum of 20 hours per week. Preference is often given to those available 30+ hours per week.

Click here to apply.