Intern - EU & Neighbourhood

The Netherlands Institute of International Affairs Clingendael is an independent think tank and academy for international relations, based in The Hague. We contribute to a secure, sustainable, and just world through our research, training programmes and by stimulating the public debate. We work with partners across public and private sectors, including policymakers, business executives, the Dutch armed forces, law enforcement agencies, diplomats, politicians and NGOs. Clingendael offers 40 years of top knowledge and training. The Clingendael Institute is an independent foundation, unaffiliated to any political, activist, commercial, or religious movement.

The Institute has three departments: Research, Academy and Corporate Staff. To strengthen the research department we are looking for a:

Intern – EU & Neighbourhood

Full-time (36 hours per week)

Internship period: 1 April – 30 September 2026

You will primarily assist with research work related to institutional reform in the EU (also in the context of EU enlargement) and the next Dutch EU Presidency.

For 2026, we are planning, among other initiatives a research project on institutional reform in the EU, with a specific focus on democracy and the rule of law (also in the context of EU enlargement). Additionally, we plan a project to prepare for the Dutch EU Presidency, which will take place in the second half of 2029. The internship activities will include conducting literature reviews, preparing interviews, performing qualitative research analyses.

Additionally, you will support ongoing research projects and events related to the above themes. Your tasks will also include organizational support for activities such as public meetings, expert meetings and conferences. In short, working at the Clingendael Institute offers you a unique opportunity to contribute to current international political and security developments in support of ongoing research projects.

Job Description

Your tasks will include:

• Supporting researchers, primarily from the Clingendael ‘EU and its neighbours’ team;
• Collecting (mainly) qualitative data, literature, and other sources;
• Contributing to Clingendael publications;
• Assisting in organizing meetings and events;
• Attending and reporting on relevant meetings, webinars and events;
• General administrative and support work.

Qualifications and Experience

We would be interested if you meet the following requirements:

• In the Master's phase of a relevant field of study (European studies, International Relations, Political Science, (European) Public Administration, etc.);
• Knowledge of or affinity with EU governance and ongoing debates on institutional reform in the EU.
• Excellent command of English, both spoken and written; knowledge of Dutch is a strong plus;
• Excellent research and writing skills;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills;
• Proactive attitude and flexibility.

What Does Clingendael Offer You?

• A challenging and stimulating work environment that bridges policy and academia;
• An inspiring and open team with engaged colleagues;
• The opportunity to build a network;
• The opportunity to sharpen your research skills.

Internship Compensation

The internship compensation is EUR 550 gross for a 36-hour workweek, plus travel reimbursement.

Note: This internship is only available to students in the final phase of the aforementioned studies and not to graduates.

Interested?

You can apply via the 'Apply' button at the top of this vacancy.

The application deadline is 1 March 2026 23:59 hrs.