
Quick Facts
Location: Kosovo
Program Focus: Intern with the organization of the International Forum on Women, Peace, and Security.
Task Focus: Foreign policy research and analysis, Stakeholder Engagement and Diplomacy, Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Program Support, Event coordination and program management, Communications and public relations
Program Length: 9+ Weeks
Program Overview
Join Isla for a truly immersive and “all inclusive” international experience! Our team pairs you with a local counterpart in the Office of the President in your field of interest, supports you every step of the way, secures housing, insurance, etc., connects you with professional, social, and cultural opportunities, and collaborates with your university to ensure all academic requirements are met!
Kosovo, the youngest country in Europe, declared independence in 2008 and has since been at the forefront of democratic development, peacebuilding, regional cooperation, and global diplomacy. As a nation actively shaping its future, Kosovo places a strong emphasis on governance, international relations, and gender equality, making it an exciting place for students and emerging professionals to gain hands-on experience in these critical fields.
The Office of the President of Kosovo offers a dynamic internship program for university students and entry-level professionals interested in foreign affairs, policy research and analysis, program management, communications, and education. Interns will work closely with the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Program, actively contributing to the organization of the International Forum on Women, Peace, and Security held in Prishtina, Kosovo, in early June.
This prestigious WPS Forum brings together leaders, experts, academics, civil society representatives, influencers, and youth to address global challenges impacting peace and security. As an intern, you will play a vital role in:
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Conducting research on foreign policy, gender equality, and global security
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Assisting in event planning and execution for the WPS Forum
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Coordinating stakeholder engagement with international organizations, government officials, and civil society actors
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Developing content for public outreach, including reports, speeches, and digital media
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Supporting diplomatic initiatives that promote Kosovo’s strategic global goals
Through this internship, you will gain hands-on experience in international relations, event management, and strategic communications, all while contributing to a pivotal initiative that advances gender equality and peacebuilding efforts in the Western Balkans and beyond.


Tasks Included
Interns will be assigned to one or more of the following projects focused on policy research, diplomacy, international affairs, and program management at the Office of the President of Kosovo:
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Foreign policy research and analysis Conduct research on key international relations topics, contributing to policy development and strategic initiatives.
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Stakeholder Engagement and Diplomacy Work with international organizations, government officials, and civil society actors to foster collaboration and promote Kosovo’s strategic goals.
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Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Program Support Assist in the planning and execution of the WPS Forum, engaging with stakeholders and promoting gender equality initiatives.
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Event coordination and program management Support the logistics and organization of high-level events, including the WPS Forum, ensuring smooth execution and meaningful engagement.
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Communications and public relations Help develop content for public outreach, including speeches, reports, and digital media, to highlight Kosovo’s role in global peacebuilding efforts.

Requirements
Isla seeks interns who are passionate about diplomacy, international relations, democracy and peacebuilding, policy research, international security, and advancing gender equality through the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. Interns should be eager to support high-level initiatives, contribute to meaningful discussions on global peacebuilding, and assist in program management at the Office of the President of Kosovo.
Skills & Abilities include:
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University undergraduate or graduate students, and young professionals with backgrounds in international relations, political science, public policy, communications, gender studies, or related fields.
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Strong interest in global diplomacy and development, research and policy analysis, international security, program management, and gender equality initiatives.
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Ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced environment, contributing to high-level discussions and strategic projects.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
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Adaptability to work in a dynamic governmental setting, understanding the complexities of policy implementation and international cooperation.
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Willingness to contribute to event coordination, public outreach, and research projects supporting Kosovo’s Women, Peace, and Security agenda.


What Is Covered
The following is included within the program so that you can focus primarily on the work at hand and be supported each step of the way!
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Pre-departure guide and assistance with preparations (packing list, language modules, cultural guidance, etc)
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Quality internship placement with a customized scope of work
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Airport pickup and in-country orientation
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Welcome lunch/dinner
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Housing, internet, and one-time fully-stocked kitchen
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Travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance
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Local SIM card/phone plan (optional)
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Monthly passes for daily bus transportation (optional)
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Local language classes (optional)
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Tuition to study at the national university for 4 ECTS/3 US credits (optional)
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Mentorship from local professionals
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24/7 support from Isla team
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Bi-weekly internship and cultural experience reflection sessions
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Scheduled team lunches/dinners with all interns and the Isla team with relevant professionals and stakeholders
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Support in organizing and planning travel/in-country social activities
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Cultural and social activities as available
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Certificate of completion and letter of references upon completion of internship
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Continued mentorship post completion of internship (according to field of interest)
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Additional support depending on country of internship and academic requirements
