The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung's Global Unit for Democracy and Human Rights in Brussels is welcoming applications for its traineeship programme, running from mid-September 2026 to December 2026. The deadline for applications is Sunday, 16 August 2026, 23:59 CEST.
The Global Unit for Democracy and Human Rights is a core pillar of the Heinrich Böll Stiftung’s international work. We focus on:
- Strengthening democratic institutions and civil society globally,
- Advancing human rights, with a special emphasis on gender democracy, LGBTIQ+ rights, and minority protection,
- Countering authoritarianism and promoting civic participation,
- Supporting human rights defenders and political activists in restrictive environments,
- Fostering global solidarity through transnational networks and advocacy.
Purpose of the traineeship
The purpose of this traineeship is to support the work of Global Unit for Democracy and Human Rights while providing the trainee with meaningful learning opportunities and practical experience. The trainee will contribute to ongoing activities across different work streams, gaining insight into project delivery, operations, communications and organizational management.
Key Responsibilities
Administrative and Operational Support
- Assist with day-to-day administrative and organizational tasks
- Support Administration Support with logistics
- Assist in preparing reports and meeting materials
Project Support
- Contribute to implementation and monitoring of project activities
- Assist with project documentation
- Support coordination with internal and external stakeholders
Research and Analysis
- Conduct background research on topic relevant to the Unit’s work
- Gather, analyze and summarize information from various sources
- Prepare briefing notes, summaries, outputs
Events and Outreach
- Support the preparation and organization of events, workshops, meetings, conferences
- Assist with participant management, logistics and follow-up activities
- Attend relevant meetings and prepare minutes or summary notes where required
Communications
- Assist with content preparation for websites, newsletters and other communication channels
- Contribute to the dissemination of information and project results
Profile and Requirements
Essential Qualifications
- Master’s degree in relevant field, such as Political Science, Economics, International Relations, Communications, Law, Social Sciences or related disciplines
- This traineeship is intended as an early-career opportunity. Preference will be given to candidates with limited professional experience (including internships)
- Strong organizational and administrative skills with excellent attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a multicultural and collaborative environment
- Demonstrated interest in the foundation‘s mission, values and areas of work
Desirable Qualifications
- Previous internship, volunteer, or extracurricular experience relevant to our activities
- Knowledge of German, French and/or Dutch
- Experience supporting projects, events, communications, research, or stakeholder engagement activities
Eligibility
- Candidates must be eligible to work in Belgium
- Candidates must be available for a full-time traineeship in Brussels from September to December 2026 under Convention d’Immersion Professionelle (CIP)
Application Process
Deadline: Sunday, 16 August 2026, 23:59 CEST
Required Documents
- CV (max. 1 page)
- Motivation letter (max. 1 page), including:
- Your relevant experience and skills
- Your interest in democracy and human rights work
- Copy of Master's diploma or proof of expected graduation
Send your application:
Subject Line: “Trainee – Global Unit Democracy & Human Rights”
Email: eui-info@eu.boell.org
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Interviews will take place in late August 2026 (online or in-person).
Additional Information
- Start Date: 15 September 2026
- End Date: 31 December 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time (37 hours/week).
- Location: Brussels, Belgium (hybrid work options may be discussed).
- Visa Support: We cannot provide visa sponsorship. Applicants must have a valid work/residence permit for Belgium or EU/EEA citizenship.
- Diversity & Inclusion: We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The Heinrich Böll Stiftung is committed to gender democracy and anti-discrimination.
