International Affairs Intern

5Rights is seeking to recruit an International Affairs Intern, based in Belgium, to support the development and delivery of 5Rights Foundation's global advocacy objectives. The intern will contribute to research, stakeholder engagement, policy analysis, and advocacy activities that advance children's rights in the digital environment internationally. The role provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in international policy and advocacy while supporting efforts to influence global standards, regulatory frameworks, and governance approaches affecting children and young people online.

About 5Rights

5Rights Foundation exists to ensure a digital world that will serve children and young people today and for future generations. We are a small team of senior professionals and experts delivering change in how the digital world works. We have shifted the narrative and the agenda through provocative comms campaigns (e.g. Twisted Toys), pioneering research (e.g. Pathways) and award-winning tools (e.g. Child Online Safety Toolkit). We continue to drive real-life change thanks to an outstanding track-record of delivering legislation (e.g. Californian Age Appropriate Design Code), policy and regulatory frameworks (e.g. UNCRC General comment No.25), and industry standards (e.g. IEEE 2089).

Reporting Line

Head of International Affairs

Role Purpose

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor developments in international digital policy, online safety, privacy, artificial intelligence, platform governance, and children's rights.
• Analyse international policy initiatives, consultations, resolutions, frameworks, and research emerging issues affecting children in the digital environment.
• Support the drafting of consultation responses, position papers, reports, speeches, advocacy materials, reports and external communications – including social media and website content.
• Assist with stakeholder mapping and engagement activities involving international policymakers, regulators, civil society organisations, academics, multilateral institutions, and industry representatives.
• Support the organisation of international meetings, workshops, conferences, and advocacy events.
• Maintain advocacy databases, contact lists, and project documentation.
• Contribute to coalition-building, partnership development, and international campaign activities.
• Provide administrative and project support to the international affairs team.

Person specification

This is a highly challenging and rewarding position for a professional with the following attributes:

Essential skills and attributes:

• Understanding of and interest in the international digital policy landscape, international policymaking and processes.
• Excellent communicator with experience synthesising complex information into clear and concise outputs, and building positive relationships across cultures.
• Excellent organisation skills, with experience managing events and projects.
• Interest in technology policy, digital rights, child rights, and public affairs.
• Enjoys managing multiple assignments simultaneously, as well as working at pace and to tight deadlines, ensuring accurate, high-quality output.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Excellent spoken and written English, proficiency in additional languages, particularly Spanish or ASEAN languages.
• Proficiency in office productivity tools (Microsoft 365, Outlook, Word and Excel).
• Committed to the mission and values of 5Rights Foundation.

Desirable skills and attributes:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• 1-2 years of prior experience in a similar role.
• Knowledge of children's rights and the challenges they face in the digital environment.
• Experience managing social media channels.
• Highly organised, self-motivated and reliable with strong attention to detail.
• Strong ability to work collaboratively within a team and networking skills.

Practical details

We are offering a six-month remote CIP (professional immersion contract) based in Brussels, Belgium. This paid internship offers a stipend of a gross €1,500 per month. Candidates should be prepared to work flexible hours to accommodate different time zones. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in Belgium.