Red Cross EU Office is looking for a Disaster Management & Development Intern

Background information

The Red Cross EU Office is a partnership between 29 National Red Cross Societies in the EU/EEA and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Founded in 1983, the Red Cross EU Office represents the interests of National Societies and the IFRC towards the EU Institutions, Brussels-based international and partner organisations, and EU-level NGO networks. The office supports its member organisations by sharing information, building partnerships, and facilitating access to EU funding.

Our objectives are:

1. To heighten Red Cross influence on EU policy, legislation and practice by stepping up advocacy and communication efforts in Brussels and in EU Member States. Employing an evidence-based approach, we will strengthen the voice and positioning of the Red Cross on EU issues by elaborating joint messaging and strategies to effectively engage decision-makers at national and EU levels, and beyond when relevant.

2. To increase EU resources for our domestic and international work through enhanced collaboration, communication and knowledge exchange on EU programmes. We will strengthen the visibility and recognition of the impact of our work and continue to coordinate to maximise the reach and scope of our global network.

3. To serve Red Cross EU Office members on EU related issues by monitoring the legal and political framework in which they operate. The Red Cross EU Office will analyse and advise members about EU trends and opportunities, facilitate information-sharing and provide capacity building and tailored technical support.

Job purpose

The purpose of this position is to support the work of the Disaster Management & Development unit (DM&DEVE unit) and assist policy advisors with research, analysis, information-sharing and guidance of member organisations with regards to relevant EU policies, legislation and finances, as well as showcasing the activities and initiatives of members towards EU stakeholders. The position will enable valuable work experience in a diverse and dynamic team. On-the-job training and other learning opportunities will be provided.

Role and responsibilities:

Activities of the internship may include:

• Monitor the legislative and policy work of the EU institutions in the areas of development cooperation, humanitarian aid and civil protection

• Contribute to the monthly newsletter of the unit

• Assist in the planning, organising and promotion of events with members and partners

• Contribute to the collection and dissemination of data on the humanitarian aid and development cooperation work of National Red Cross Societies and the IFRC

• Research on and drafting policy papers and briefings according to the identified needs

• Monitor and alert on upcoming EU funding opportunities for Red Cross work in the field

• Contribute to the creation of visibility materials of Red Cross work in the field.

Ideal candidates offer the following:

• An understanding of the functioning of the EU institutions and policy processes, particularly relevant in the field of humanitarian aid, development cooperation and civil protection

• An interest in promoting Red Cross values, principles, practices and recommendations

• Experience in policy research and analysis

• Practical experience in voluntary work or voluntary services

• Solid IT knowledge

• A quick learner with an ability to work with short deadlines

• Flexible, able to work in a team

• Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English (other EU languages welcome)

Working conditions

• Full time position of 38 hours per week, based in Brussels, Belgium – the applicant needs to have permission to work in Belgium.

• Six months paid internship under Belgian Social Legislation as Convention d’immersion professionelle (€921.20/ month).

• Reimbursement of public transportation and meal for every day worked

How to apply

• Please send your CV (maximum two pages) and answer to the following two questions (up to one page) to [email protected], stating “DM & Deve Internship” in the email subject line by Sunday 3 July 2022:

  • Based on your previous experiences and sharing concrete examples, what added value do you think you can bring to RCEU team?

  • The Council of EU conclusions on “The EU’s renewed partnership with Least Developed Countries” were adopted recently - explain the strategy you would have developed to influence the process and emphasise what could be the further opportunities to work on climate change adaptation and/or health?

• Only shortlisted will be contacted for an interview, scheduled to take place in mid- July 2022. Prospective candidates may also be asked to carry out a written assignment in English as part of the selection procedure.

• The starting date will be discussed with the selected candidate but should be no later than Monday 5 September 2022.