Are you passionate about human rights and eager to gain hands-on experience in the field? Lawyers for Lawyers is looking for a dedicated intern to support our very first Shelter City guest this autumn. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an international initiative that provides temporary safe spaces for lawyers at risk.
What is Shelter City?
Shelter City is a global movement of cities, organizations, and individuals who stand in solidarity with human rights defenders. In 2025, Shelter City Amstelveen will join this network through a collaboration between the Municipality of Amstelveen, Lawyers for Lawyers, and Justice and Peace Netherlands.
This initiative provides a three-month safe haven in the Netherlands for lawyers who face risks due to their professional work. During their stay, they receive tailored support, training, and opportunities to strengthen their work while focusing on their wellbeing and personal development.
Starting in mid-September 2025, the first lawyer in the program will arrive in the Netherlands.
What will you do?
As an intern, you will play a key role in supporting our guest lawyer and contributing to the success of this programme. You will be their primary point of contact and provide practical and logistical support throughout their stay. Your responsibilities will include:
- Organizing activities for knowledge exchange, cultural engagement, and professional development, including handling logistics and communication.
- Supporting the guest by reaching out to stakeholders, accompanying them to meetings and events, and providing general assistance.
- Contributing to advocacy efforts, such as helping arrange public speaking engagements.
- Researching and creating content about the guest’s work and program activities.
- Supporting other Lawyers for Lawyers projects, such as drafting reports or conducting research on the situation of lawyers in different countries.
Who we’re looking for
- You are passionate about human rights and support the mission of Lawyers for Lawyers.
- You are hands-on, proactive, and eager to learn.
- You enjoy both logistical tasks and occasional research.
- You have experience organizing events and are highly organized and efficient at multitasking.
- You have excellent command of English (spoken and written).
- Knowledge of other languages (Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Arabic) is a plus.
- You are flexible, independent, result-oriented, and analytical.
- You have an academic background in international public law, human rights, social work, or public policy.
- Prior knowledge of the topic is not required—genuine interest is!
What do we offer you:
- Meaningful Impact: An opportunity to make a real difference by contributing directly to the support of a human rights lawyer at risk
- Hands-on Experience in NGO Work: Gain practical skills in human rights advocacy and nonprofit operations.
- Networking Opportunities: Build a professional network with both local and international lawyers and human rights defenders, opening doors for future collaborations and career opportunities.
- Skill Development: Gain skills in organizing events, managing campaigns, and handling various logistical and administrative tasks.
- Internship allowance: A modest stipend is provided.
Details:
- Start Date: August 1, 2025
- Duration: 5 months
- Location: Amsterdam office
Interested?
Does this internship appeal to you? Please send your cover letter, CV and 2 reference contacts to n.seguradiez@lawyersforlawyers.nl before 15 May 2025.
You can also contact us with any questions about the vacancy.
