Communications Intern

We invite qualified candidates to complete an online application and submit a resume (max. 2 pages) and cover letter.Please upload a resume AND cover letter as separate PDF attachments. Applications missing either document will not be considered!

Freedom House is an independent watchdog organization dedicated to the promotion of freedom and democracy around the world. We analyze challenges to freedom, advocate for greater political rights and civil liberties, and support frontline activists to defend human rights and promote democratic change. We advocate for U.S. leadership and collaboration with like-minded governments to vigorously oppose authoritarians and oppression. We amplify the voices of those struggling for freedom in repressive societies and counter authoritarian efforts to weaken international scrutiny of their regimes. Founded in 1941, Freedom House was the first American organization to champion the advancement of freedom globally.

Position Summary

The communications intern will support Freedom House’s efforts to improve visibility on social and new media, promote print and broadcast media outreach, help prepare online and print publications, and support Freedom House leadership on public engagements. This position will focus on researching Freedom House’s earned media performance and key influencers as well as drafting and editing content for Facebook, Twitter, media outreach, the Freedom House website, and executive communications. The position will also work on publication promotion, provide day-of event assistance, assist with executing social media strategies, and help with special outreach projects as they arise. They will have the opportunity to work directly with Freedom House’s external audiences. This position will works directly with the communications team and provides the opportunity for on-the-job learning of skills that are vital to digital marketing and communications work, including general international non-profit outreach. This is a temporary paid internship for currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students that will last for about 12 weeks, with possible extension. The position may possibly be a remote or partially remote internship, pending changes to Freedom House office policies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This position requires a commitment of about 15-20 hours per week, depending on the student’s availability.

Desired Qualifications:

• Intern must be enrolled in an accredited college or university for the duration of the internship.
• Applicants working towards an undergraduate or graduate degree in a relevant field such as political science, international relations, communications, or journalism are strongly encouraged to apply, but applicants from all fields of study will be considered.
• Strong writing skills. Applicants must possess an excellent verbal and written command of the English language.
• Proficiency in foreign languages is a plus.
• Strong interest and demonstrated engagement in social media, public relations, media monitoring and analysis, marketing, website development, writing and editing, or graphic design
• Interest in human rights, democracy, or international development concepts
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Ability to plan, organize, prioritize work, and meet tight deadlines
• Ability to apply close attention to detail and consistently produce error-free work
• Ability to maintain the highest degree of confidentiality regarding all aspects of work at all times
• Experience with Microsoft Office programs required (especially Outlook, Word, and Excel); knowledge of Google Workspace beneficial
• Knowledge of Photoshop or Canva preferred but not required
• Eagerness to get creative and take initiative

Some Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the creation, distribution, and monitoring of external communications content for Freedom House, including press releases, media alerts, tweets, Facebook posts, email newsletters, virtual events, and website content
• Assist in tracking news coverage and mentions in media outlets spanning 100+ countries
• Contribute to the creation and implementation of social media campaigns
• Assist in tracking earned and social media performance metrics
• Help research current events and trends in the democracy and human rights space for use in speeches, talking points, op-eds, and other communications products
• Select and create graphics and images for social media promotion
• ​Other related duties as assigned

Qualified and Interested Applicants:

We invite qualified candidates to complete an online application and submit a resume (max. 2 pages) and cover letter.Please upload a resume AND cover letter as separate PDF attachments. Applications missing either document will not be considered!

Only candidates who have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without any restrictions.

Disclaimer:
This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job. It is not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. The responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the jobholder may differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, may be part of the job. Freedom House may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.

EOE M/F/D/V