Public Affairs & Communications Intern

Join the European democracy movement from the heart of Brussels

Stand Up for Europe is looking for an ambitious, creative and politically engaged intern to join our Brussels team.

This is not a typical internship.

You'll work at the intersection of European policy, public affairs, communications and citizen engagement, contributing directly to initiatives that strengthen European democracy at a time when it faces unprecedented challenges.

If you're passionate about European affairs, enjoy taking initiative, and want your work to have real impact, we'd love to hear from you.

What you'll do

As a Public Affairs & Communications Intern, you'll become an active member of our team and contribute across a wide range of activities, including:

  • Monitoring EU political and policy developments related to democracy, citizen participation and European affairs;

  • Assisting with EU-funded projects, policy research, reports, project proposals and impact assessments;

  • Supporting the preparation and organisation of high-level events involving EU institutions, Members of the European Parliament, Commissioners, civil society organisations and other stakeholders;

  • Creating engaging content for social media and communication campaigns;

  • Filming and editing videos for advocacy and outreach initiatives;

  • Writing articles, opinion pieces and communication materials;

  • Helping expand and coordinate our European network of partners and local branches;

  • Contributing ideas for new campaigns, projects and initiatives.

What makes this internship different?

Working at Stand Up for Europe means becoming part of one of Brussels' most dynamic pro-democracy organisations.

During your internship, you'll have the opportunity to:

  • Work in the heart of the European Quarter in Brussels;

  • Obtain accreditation to the European Parliament and participate in activities across the EU institutions;

  • Organise and attend events featuring Members of the European Parliament, European Commissioners, senior EU officials, academics and civil society leaders;

  • Build an exceptional professional network that will support your future career in Brussels and beyond;

  • Take ownership of projects instead of performing routine administrative tasks;

  • Develop practical experience in both public affairs and strategic communications;

  • Bring your own ideas to life and make a genuine contribution to strengthening European democracy;

  • Work in an international, multicultural and highly motivated team committed to creating positive change.

This internship is designed for people who want to learn by doing, take responsibility from day one, and leave with experience that genuinely stands out.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for students or recent graduates who are curious, proactive and eager to contribute.

You should ideally have:

  • A background in Political Science, European Studies, International Relations, Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs or a related field;

  • A genuine interest in European affairs, democracy and public policy;

  • Excellent written and spoken English (minimum C1);

  • Strong research and writing skills;

  • Experience creating digital content or managing social media;

  • Familiarity with Canva, CapCut or similar editing tools (video editing experience is a strong advantage);

  • Strong organisational skills and attention to detail;

  • The ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team.

Knowledge of French or another EU language is considered an asset.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be available for an internship of 3 to 6 months, potential starting date in September;

  • Be able to obtain an Erasmus+ Traineeship or another recognised internship agreement through their university;

  • Not already reside in Belgium at the start of the internship.

Compensation

  • Approximately €800-1,000 per month (depending on the applicable Erasmus+ mobility funding scheme and internship arrangements).

How to apply

Instead of sending us a traditional motivation letter, we'd like to see how you think.

We believe Europe's future depends on new ideas. Before applying, we invite you to contribute your own.

Step 1

Publish a contribution on the European Commission's Citizens' Engagement Platform with the title:

"July for Democracy: [your subject]"

Share your idea on how European democracy can be strengthened in the face of today's unprecedented challenges.

We're not looking for perfect solutions—we're looking for originality, critical thinking and genuine engagement.

Step 2

Send us:

  • Your CV;

  • The link to your Citizens' Engagement Platform contribution.

Email your application to:

[email protected]

Applications will be reviewed by early August.

The interviews will take place during the week of 3/08.

Stand Up for Europe

Website: https://www.standupforeurope.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StandUp4Europe

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standup4eu/