Policy Internship

Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is the biggest student network in Europe, with over 530 local organisations (“sections”) active in Higher Education Institutions in 45 countries. ESN has been supporting student mobility since 1989 and has its international headquarters in Brussels.

The international headquarters in Brussels is looking for a Policy Intern to work in the policy field in the Autumn of 2024, to start on the 2nd of September. 

The position is perfect for students/recent graduates looking to start their careers in the education, policy and project management fields in one of Europe’s most important NGOs. No previous work experience is needed, but experience in volunteering organisations is highly desirable.

Main tasks and responsibilities

The trainee will be part of ESN's policy department, supporting ESN’s effort to improve internationalisation opportunities for students and to advocate for European institutions, national agencies, and other stakeholders for better mobility programmes and policies.

The trainee will support the development of programmes and policies connected with the main fields of work of the Erasmus Student Network, such as the Erasmus+ programme and work together with other civil society organisations. The trainee will also work with other members of ESN’s policy department to create key materials related to EU-funded projects, acquiring direct hands-on experience and knowledge in the area.

ESN believes in the role of traineeship as educational experiences, and therefore, our trainees are also encouraged to propose new ideas, projects and initiatives they believe ESN should implement.

Specifically, the trainee will be focusing on the following tasks:

• Monitor and report on various policy and political developments related to Higher Education policies in Europe, Erasmus+ and other mobility programmes; 

• Assist the ESN International’s team in developing and implementing projects related to international student mobility, education and youth work;

• Conduct desk research on various policy issues within the fields mentioned above; 

• Support the preparation of events and meetings, including drafting memos, presentations, and briefing materials for both internal and external meetings; 

• Draft positions and advocacy plans in cooperation with the Policy Department; 

• Assist the ESN Headquarters. 

Terms and conditions

• Traineeship for a duration of 6 - 12 months (relatively flexible); 

• The successful applicant should start on the 2nd of September, ideally;

• Must have an Erasmus+ traineeship grant. Please note that this is a mandatory requirement, as ESN does not have the means to cover any subsistence costs other than the ones mentioned in the bullet points below. Self-maintenance of the trainee is not an option, as ESN is a strong advocate for fair and paid traineeships and follows The European Quality Charter;

• Accommodation costs of up to 450 EUR per month are reimbursed.

• Transport costs within Brussels are covered.

• Public Liability and Personal Accident Insurance are covered.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Fluent in written and spoken English;

• Interest and knowledge of EU affairs, policies and decision-making processes;

• Experience in a volunteer-led organisation;

• A structured and reliable way of working;

• Comfortable working in a multicultural and diverse environment;

• Highly proactive attitude. Not afraid of proposing changes and taking ownership of delegated tasks;

• Knowledge of ESN is a plus.

How to Apply

To apply, you are encouraged to use the ErasmusIntern.org website - follow the link - and please make sure your ErasmusIntern user profile is linked to your motivation letter. If this is not possible, please send a short motivation letter, and your CV via this form by the 3rd of June, at 23:59 CEST. 

Before applying, please confirm with your university that you are eligible for an Erasmus+ traineeship grant.

Please note that this is a Brussels-based position; the successful candidate is expected to move to Brussels by the start date in September. 

If you have any additional questions regarding the position, please contact [email protected]. For more information on ESN, please visit our website esn.org.