Quick Facts
Location: Kosovo
Program Focus: Isla seeks interns who share a commitment to fostering change and addressing social issues, with a focus on democracy building.
Task Focus: Research & Policy Analysis, Journalism, Multimedia & Communications, Education Development & Outreach, Project Planning & Implementation, Civic Engagement & Advocacy, Ethnic Minority Inclusion, Electoral Observation & Monitoring, Transparency & Accountability Initiatives.
Program Length: 9+ Weeks
Program Overview
Intern with local non-governmental organizations dedicated to fostering a democratic society through increased citizen participation in political processes, enhanced accountability, and influencing decision-making.
Kosovo, having gained independence in 2008, faces unique challenges in recovering from its past and establishing itself locally and internationally. Some of these challenges are rooted in the political sphere, where the establishment of democracy in a young nation holds vital importance.
As a result, these organizations focus on monitoring and assisting in the development of the national legislature, political party systems, and nurturing civic activism to involve the public (including underrepresented groups) in effective governance.
More specifically, these organizations focus on examining disinformation and hate speech used in social networks, increasing women's access to employment and political participation, and working closely with youth wings of political parties.
In coordination with the Assembly of Kosovo, these organizations monitor the implementation of laws while also facilitating the identification of community needs.
Tasks Included
Depending on the Intern’s skill set and interest, the Intern will be assigned to one or more of the following projects associated with democracy and governance in Kosovo:
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Research & Policy Analysis
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Journalism, Multimedia & Communications
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Education Development & Outreach
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Project Planning & Implementation
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Civic Engagement & Advocacy
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Ethnic Minority Inclusion
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Electoral Observation & Monitoring
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Transparency & Accountability Initiative
Requirements
Isla seeks interns who share a commitment to fostering change and addressing social issues, with a focus on democracy building.
Skills & Abilities include:
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University undergrad and graduate students, and young professionals working on a degree (or who have graduated in fields) in political science, international relations, law, sociology, social justice, human rights studies, English, creative writing, or other-related fields.
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Willingness to take initiative and work under minimal guidance in both office and field settings.
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Motivated and committed to work effectively as part of an inter-cultural team.
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Excellent interpersonal skills, and willingness to learn.
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Be flexible and work to understand diverse cultures, history, and relative current events.
What Is Covered
Isla will work closely with your university to assist with academic credit requirements for your internship and in regard to the transfer of credit for participation in classes at the university. 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
