International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), Brussels
Legal internship
Deadline for application: 13 November 2013

Human Rights are the very foundation of a society that guarantees equality, dignity and freedom for each human being. The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), through its legitimacy, its experience, its methods and its credibility, has a unique role to play in contributing to their realisation. Since 2009, FIDH has singled out certain areas of prime concern, for which it has determined action priorities:

1. Freedom and capacity to act of human rights defenders
2. Universality of rights, in particular those of women, whose - inequitable treatment constitutes a major obstacle for the progress of mankind
3. Promotion and protection of migrants’ rights
4. Effectiveness of Human Rights, to put an end to the impunity of authors of violations, who are not called to account, be they individuals, States or business enterprises
5. Stengthen the respect for human rights in the context of globalisation
6. Respect for Human Rights and the Rule of Law in times of conflict, emergency or political transition
FIDH quickly responds to requests from member organisations in times of armed or violent political conflict and closed countries. It conducts fact-finding missions in the field and mobilises the international community through international and regional organisations, third countries and other levers of influence.

FIDH is offering a legal placement.
Job description
The intern will work closely with the EU Representative for the Brussels delegation of the International Federation for Human Rights. The main tasks include:
• Assisting with research and writing on human rights advocacy issues.
• Helping to set up a comprehensive agenda of advocacy meetings with relevant parties for visiting human rights defenders from our member leagues.
• Taking part in advocacy meetings and taking minutes.
• Helping in the organization of events and press conferences when necessary.
• Following proceedings at the European institutions.
• Assisting with updating the database and other tasks if necessary.

Your profile
• Excellent knowledge of the European institutions and human rights issues.
• An excellent command of French and English, knowledge of other languages preferred.
• The ability to write clearly and succinctly.
• A desire to work in a challenging and fulfilling environment.
• An open and friendly personality, able to work well in a small team.

Practical information
• Interns must have a signed internship convention with their Univeristy.
• The internship lasts 3 to 6 months.
• Start date: as soon as possible.
• Location: Brussels
• The internship is unpaid but local transport is fully reimbursed and there is a small daily allowance for lunch.

How to apply
Please send your application letter and CV by email to Catherine Absalom at cabsalom@fidh.org. Interviews will be held in our offices in Brussels (or by phone if necessary).