Internship Opportunity: United States Commission on International Religious Freedom

About Us
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan, U.S. federal government commission – the first of its kind in the world – that monitors the universal right to freedom of religion or belief abroad. USCIRF reviews the facts and circumstances of religious freedom violations and makes policy recommendations to the President, Secretary of State, and Congress. USCIRF Commissioners are appointed by the President and Congressional leadership of both political parties.
General Information on USCIRF Internships
·         Currently enrolled undergraduates or graduate students (including JD and LLM students) are eligible for internships.
·         All USCIRF internships are unpaid; however, a small stipend and/or course credit may be available.
·         Internships can be full-time (40 hours a week) or part-time (20-30 hours a week) for a minimum of 8 weeks.
General Eligibility Requirements (applicable to all USCIRF internships)
·         U.S. citizenship (or otherwise authorized to intern with the U.S. government)
·         Currently enrolled undergraduate (juniors and seniors) or graduate student (including JD and LLM candidates)
·         Minimum 2.5 GPA
·         Successful completion of a background check
Internship Responsibilities
·         Research a variety of international religious freedom and human rights issues, with a focus on Europe and Central Asia;
·         Assist with preparations for meetings, roundtables, Commission travel, and other events;
·         Attend meetings at USCIRF with international visitors and other groups interested in USCIRF’s work;
·         Attend and report on public hearings and other events in the DC area on issues relevant to USCIRF’s work;
·         Provide general administrative support as needed.
Eligible candidates should have:
·         a minimum 2.5 GPA;
·         demonstrable knowledge, including academic background, of a particular world region;
·         completed coursework (or have experience) in public policy, international affairs, political science, human rights, religious affairs, government affairs, or a             related field;
·         a willingness to perform administrative tasks;
·         familiarity with the full Microsoft Office suite.
Fluency in Russian is preferred.
Application Requirements
1.      Cover letter explaining your qualifications and why you would you like to intern at USCIRF
2.      Resume
3.      Writing sample (3-5 pages)
4.      Letters of reference (at least 2)
How to Apply
E-mail, fax, or mail your application materials to:
USCIRF Internship Program
732 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite A714
Washington, DC 20401
202-523-3240 (phone)
202-523-5020 (fax)
internship@uscirf.gov
Please specify the internship and semester you are applying for in your cover letter and the subject line of an e-mailed application.