For more than 30 years, the Council on Hemispheric Affairs (COHA), a
major tax-exempt, nonprofit, and nonpartisan national research and
information organization, has offered internships in Washington in the
fields of U.S., Latin American, and Canadian relations. These
internships provide practical, entry level experience regarding a
variety of political, economic, diplomatic, and trade issues. They also
provide young scholars with excellent exposure to the policy making
process. COHA seeks highly qualified undergraduate and graduate students
as well as those who have already earned degrees. During its
existence, nearly 1,000 successful candidates have interned in COHA’s
Washington office.
COHA internships, which are available
throughout the year, are entirely voluntary and are highly competitive
(with summer positions being the most sought after). Schedules for the
18-week internships (14 weeks for the summer internships) can be
arranged to meet the individual’s needs, although full-time and
full-term applicants are given preference in the selection process.
Interns play an integral role in COHA’s activities, which include the
following: issuing statements and providing commentary to the print and
electronic media; submitting articles on hemispheric issues to
regional and national media; monitoring human rights and press freedom
violations; promoting constructive U.S. policy initiatives; formulating
viable alternatives that seek a diplomatic rather than a military
solution to disputes; attending briefings by visiting Latin American
dignitaries; and surveying legislation focused on social justice and
the expansion of authentic democratic institutions.
Qualifications
Intern
candidates should have some knowledge and/or interest in U.S.-Latin
American affairs or international relations and should display
impressive research and writing skills. Proficiency in Spanish or
Portuguese is desired, though experience in journalism, English, or one
of the social sciences may be substituted for the normal background
requirements. Ideal internship candidates should be highly motivated and
will be expected to show initiative and a capacity for innovation.
To apply, go to http://www.coha.org/internships/about-internships/coha-internship-application/
