Helsinki Policy Forum – Internship
Forward Thinking is a London based NGO working in conflict resolution, and political dialogue in the Middle East and North Africa.
We have an exciting internship opportunity to support the delivery of the Helsinki Policy Forum (HPF). The HPF brings together influential individuals from across the Middle East and Europe for high-level dialogue on shared challenges. The aim is to help policymakers reach a more informed understanding of key issues and develop areas of potential co-operation.
We are looking for an enthusiastic individual with excellent organisational abilities and strong attention to detail. The role will be based in London but may involve some overseas travel. You will be a key part of the Forward-Thinking team, reporting directly to Middle East Programme Director.
The Role:
The role is diverse and requires the ability to learn fast, take initiative and balance independence with teamwork. As part of a small team, the role will be varied and will include: organising overseas events (from small workshops to larger conferences); research into Middle Eastern Politics; and report writing.
Essential experience, knowledge and skills:
- Relevant experience of organising events, proven ability to manage competing priorities and a track record of delivering on ambitious targets.
- Native proficiency in English.
- Excellent written and spoken communications; demonstrable experience of writing reports.
- Good working knowledge of the MENA region.
- A commitment to, and respect for, facilitating inclusive dialogue with groups holding highly diverse political, religious and ideological views.
- Undergraduate degree in a related field (politics, history, languages, political sciences etc.) or relevant experience essential.
- A ‘can-do’ attitude, and ability to respond calmly and flexibly in a fast-paced environment.
Desirable Attributes:
Spoken and written Arabic
Contract type, payment, and eligibility
This will be a contract for an initial 6-month period (with the possibility of a permanent contract if the internship proves successful).
The successful candidate must be able to work full time – equivalent to a 40-hour week. Please do not apply if you cannot fulfil this criterion.
You must be eligible to work in the UK. We cannot offer support for visa applications.
You will be paid an hourly rate at the London Living Wage £11.95.
How to apply
Please write to admin@forward-thinking.org with your CV (max two sides of A4) and short covering letter (also no more than two sides of A4) explaining your interest in the position and why you would be well suited to the role.
Please put in the subject line of your email: Helsinki Policy Forum Internship.
Application period
Applications will be accepted from today until the 24th of February 2023 at midnight. Any applications received outside of this period will not be considered.
Interviews and start date
Applicants we would like to invite for interview will be contacting on a rolling basis, with the first round of interviews beginning from the 6th of February. We will look for an immediate start.
In addition to a traditional interview, applicants will be asked to carry out some short tests of core skills required of the role (e.g. a writing test)
Due to the high volume of applications we expect to receive, we will not write individually to unsuccessful candidates. If you do not hear from us by the 24th of February, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.