Internship: Track II Mediation

Track II Mediation Unit

Search has a long history of working behind the scenes to support governments in resolving conflict. The tool of Track II mediation has been at the heart of the organization for 35 years, since Search aimed to improve relations between the United States and the Soviet Union. Through unofficial shuttle diplomacy, back-channel talks, facilitated dialogue and people-to-people projects, Search helped develop and implement confidence-building measures that support official agreements and understandings between the US and Iran, Israel and Jordan and between opposition groups in Burundi and Sierra Leone.

Within Search, the Track II Mediation Unit is dedicated to conducting dynamic, multi-level processes to restore trust between conflicting parties, uncover areas of common interest and support official processes. Search programs complement official negotiations by dealing with issues on both the substantive and the human levels, and provide a venue for influential, non-official participants to discuss informally, advancing possible solutions collaboratively.

The Track II Mediation Unit of Search for Common Ground (SFCG) is seeking an intern for the Fall 2021. The position is an unpaid, with a 20-30 hour per week commitment for the duration of 3-6 months, starting in late August/early September. Candidates who can work for 6 months will be given preference. Graduate level students are given precedence, but exceptional undergraduates will be considered.

Summary of Position

The Track II intern will provide support to the Unit in the implementation of Track II and mediation activities throughout the world. She/ He will work closely with the Program Manager and the Program Coordinator in opening and closing project protocols, on program implementation, meeting logistics, and communications with advisors and other staff. The intern will also conduct research relevant to high-level engagement and mediation, prepare documents, and (Covid-19 permitting) represent the Unit at events and conferences. The position is currently remote, but may require a part-time presence in Washington, DC once the pandemic is over. The intern reports to the Program Manager and liaises with other Search staff, as appropriate.

Responsibilities:

Intern duties are wide-ranging, and may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Researching and writing to contribute to various projects, including grant proposals, conflict analysis, presentations, procurement and other needs of the Unit;
• Supporting project management and implementation through the use of a variety of tools;
• Assisting with logistical/administrative tasks related to the Unit;
• Coordinating meetings and logistics (possibly including travel, venues, visas, etc.)
• Where possible, attending conferences, events, and meetings while representing Search;
• On occasion, the Intern may have an opportunity to travel domestically or internationally in fulfillment of their duties.

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Have an interest in and knowledge of the conflict resolution field;
• Demonstrate knowledge of current world events;
• Have knowledge of and/or experience in mediation, facilitation, dialogue, etc.;
• Have experience working on peacebuilding projects;
• Exhibit excellent research and analytical skills;
• Demonstrate exceptional writing, editing, briefing, and communication skills;
• Have the ability to represent the Track II Unit and Search in professional settings;
• Possess strong interpersonal and communication skills;
• Attention to detail;
• Ability to multitask;
• Ability to work independently and have a self-starting, enthusiastic and flexible attitude;
• Be trustworthy in handling sensitive information in a discrete manner;
• Feel comfortable in a fluid, dynamic environment that can change rapidly;
• Possess solid computer literacy including solid knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint;
• Proficiency in French and Arabic or Farsi language is a plus.

The Track II Mediation Unit offers interns the unique possibility to engage with actors, processes and topics related to peace, conflict and mediation, and to have a meaningful, hands-on experience in the field of peacebuilding.

Applications for this internship must be received by December 18th, 2021.