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Internships
2026 - 2027 

Internship: Program Support — Shelter City Amsterdam & ICORN Amsterdam 

Stichting URGENT, Amsterdam (On-site) 

Starting as soon as possible 

 

About Stichting URGENT 

 

Stichting URGENT is an Amsterdam-based non-profit foundation that supports activists, human rights defenders, and artists worldwide through networking, advocacy, public programmes, and education. The foundation coordinates two flagship relocation programmes, Shelter City Amsterdam, a temporary relocation programme for activists, and ICORN (International Cities of Refuge Network) Amsterdam, which offers shelter to persecuted writers and artists, alongside public programmes and multimedia productions that amplify the voices of those whose human rights are not upheld in their home countries. 

 

About the Role 

We're looking for a motivated intern to support the day-to-day programme and administrative activities of Shelter City Amsterdam and ICORN Amsterdam. This is a hands-on opportunity to gain real experience in nonprofit operations and human rights advocacy in a dynamic, mission-driven team. 

 

What You'll Do 

  • Collaborate with staff to ensure smooth execution of Shelter City and ICORN projects and initiatives 

  • Help organise events and workshops connected to Shelter City and ICORN Amsterdam, including coordinating logistics 

  • Support community outreach efforts, including engagement with local partners and the wider network 

  • Maintain accurate records and documentation for relocated activists, human rights defenders, and artists 

  • Draft communications and help update our digital channels and social media 

  • Assist with research tasks related to human rights issues and prepare summaries or presentations 

 

You'll work closely with our Project Coordinator, Programme Makers, and Chair, who will guide and support you throughout the internship. 

 

What We're Looking For 

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, comfortable drafting clear emails, reports, and outreach materials 

  • Solid organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple tasks and meet deadlines 

  • Social sensitivity and cultural awareness — the ability to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with activists, human rights defenders, and artists who may have experienced persecution or trauma 

  • A collaborative mindset and the ability to work well with diverse colleagues, volunteers, and community partners 

  • Advanced digital literacy, including comfort with standard office software (word processing, spreadsheets, presentations) and online communication tools 

  • Problem-solving skills, initiative, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment 

  • A genuine interest in human rights, social impact, community development, or nonprofit work, and motivation to support Stichting URGENT's mission 

  • Academic background or ongoing studies in literature, social sciences, humanities, communications or a related field 

  • Fluency in English and Dutch required 

  • Fluency in Russian or Azerbaijani, along with knowledge of the region (Caucasus/Central Asia/post-Soviet space) is preferred 

  • Monthly stipend 

 

What You'll Gain 

Hands-on experience in nonprofit and human rights advocacy work, direct exposure to the Shelter City and ICORN relocation programmes, and mentorship from an experienced team working at the intersection of human rights and public engagement.

 

If you are interested, please send your CV and motivation statement to amsterdam@urgentfoundation.nl  

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