Intern, Government Relations and Communications

Grade Level: Non-Exempt | Grade Level 1

About NED

The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) seeks to advance democracy and freedom. NED seeks to empower its partners to inform, organize, and mobilize constituencies for political reforms as a means to build and sustain democracy.

At NED, you will join a team of committed individuals who are mission- and values-driven. We are looking for individuals who will deliver their talents in support of our work.

Our values include:

• Respect

• Empathy

• Accountability

• Adaptability

• Excellence

Position Summary

NED is creating student and employee partnerships that facilitate growth and development of IRI’s future leadership. The intern will support the work of NED’s Government Relations and Communications team.

This position will start on May 18, 2026, for no more than twelve (12) weeks and may not be extended. This is a paid position at $17.95 per hour. Intern working hours will be a minimum of 20 hours per week.

This internship is for an in-person opportunity position based in Washington, DC.

Primary Responsibilities

• Follow legislation, hearings, and committee activity in the United States Congress

• Track bills related to foreign policy, democracy programs, and international trade

• Monitor hearings and activities from committees like the House Foreign Affairs Committee or Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Plus Appropriations Committees

• Prepare policy memos, briefings, or background papers and support staff with talking points or research summaries

• Monitor news coverage and media mentions across social media and press outlets

• Conduct research and synthesize critical information to inform communication strategies

• Help organize events, meetings, and briefings

Qualifications

• Current student in or recent graduate of an undergraduate or graduate program in relevant field of study

• Excellent verbal and written skills in English

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office

• Detail-oriented individual with strong organizational skills

• Ability to manage time effectively, complete tasks with minimal oversight, and communicate clearly and consistently in a professional work environment.

Talent in Action

Consistent with NED’s talent statement, and grounded in our values, the successful individual in this role will demonstrate the following competencies in the delivery of their work while supporting NED’s efforts to advance democratic change:

• Purpose-Driven

• Reliable

• Expertise

• Respectful Collaboration

• Curiosity

• Results-Oriented

• An Optimistic Mindset

NED Total Compensation

The compensation for this internship is $17.95 per hour.