Opportunities at the Norwegian Refugee Council: Internship Requirements and Opportunities

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to assisting people forced to flee. With operations in over 31 countries, NRC provides both emergency and long-term assistance to millions annually. A core element of NRC’s mission involves advocating for the rights of displaced populations, ensuring their voices are heard on the global stage.

Gaining Experience with the Norwegian Refugee Council

NRC offers various internship opportunities for students and recent graduates passionate about humanitarian work. These internships provide practical experience within an international organization committed to aiding vulnerable populations. These internships are available in various locations, including Oslo, Geneva, and Washington, D.C., each with its own focus and requirements.

Internship Opportunities at the Oslo Headquarters

From its Oslo headquarters, NRC coordinates global operations and hosts NORCAP (Norwegian Capacity), its expert deployment mechanism. NORCAP sends hundreds of Norwegian and international specialists on missions worldwide for the UN and other organizations.

Requirements for Internships in Oslo:

Internship Period: Typically offered in the spring, between January and May. For example, Spring 2026.
Duration: A minimum of 8 weeks, but can be longer depending on academic credit requirements.
Eligibility: Interns must be enrolled in a course of study at Norwegian institutions of higher education, with the internship serving as an integral part of their curriculum and providing study credits.
Flexibility: NRC is open to part-time internships and accommodating students' class schedules and part-time jobs.

Application Process for Oslo Internships:

Interested candidates should apply through NRC's online application tool, attaching a cover letter and CV in English. Applicants should specify the internship position they are applying for. Those whose profiles and interests align with the vacancies will be contacted for an interview.

Internship Opportunities at NRC Geneva

NRC Geneva plays a crucial role in the organization's representation and activities in Geneva and is home to the majority of staff in NRC’s global Policy and Advocacy Section (PAS). NRC Geneva focuses on policy areas such as protection, climate change and disaster displacement, humanitarian financing, counter-terrorism measures which impede humanitarian action, and principled humanitarian action.

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Requirements for Internships in Geneva:

Eligibility: Only students enrolled in a course of study and pursuing the internship as a mandatory and integral part of a university program provided for under Swiss cantonal or federal legislation are eligible. The university must be willing to sign a tri-partite agreement with NRC Geneva and provide an attestation confirming that the internship gives study credits.

Responsibilities for Geneva Interns:

Attend relevant calls and events focused on the above-mentioned themes, taking and distributing notes as relevant.

Qualifications for Geneva Interns:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Law, Communications, International Relations or a relevant field.
Interest in humanitarian policy or advocacy, with ability to demonstrate familiarity with one or more relevant policy areas a strong advantage.

Application Process for Geneva Internships:

Interested candidates should apply through NRC's online application tool, and make sure to attach a cover letter and their CV.

Internship Opportunities at NRC USA (Washington, D.C.)

NRC USA, established in Washington, D.C., focuses on raising funds for NRC’s overseas programs and advocating for humanitarian policy with the U.S. government and other UN Security Council members. The office works on issues like humanitarian access, international humanitarian law, internal displacement, and humanitarian response.

Requirements for Internships at NRC USA:

Location: The intern will work at the NRC USA office in Washington, D.C., unless otherwise agreed upon.
Time Commitment: Approximately 20 hours per week.
Compensation: The internship position is unpaid, and NRC USA asks that only students able to receive a school or other stipend for internships apply.

Application Process for NRC USA Internships:

Interested candidates should ensure they meet the requirements before applying and check the recruiting organization's page for the most accurate information.

Information, Counselling, and Legal Assistance (ICLA) Internship

This internship provides practical experience in Information, counselling and legal assistance (ICLA) related activities in a professional setting. The intern will work closely with the department to support in conducting community information sessions, providing counselling and legal assistance on essential civil documentation and HLP issues, facilitating referrals, and organizing training workshops on Collaborative Dispute Resolution (CDR) for Housing, Land, and Property (HLP) issues.

Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and passionate about supporting vulnerable Rohingya and host communities in accessing essential legal information, counselling and legal assistance services. S/he should be dedicated to enhancing awareness on civil documentation, dispute resolution, and HLP protection mechanisms, thereby contributing to the rights, stability, and resilience of individuals in both camps and host community settings.

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Working Environment and Organizational Values

NRC fosters a supportive culture that values dedication, innovation, inclusivity, and accountability. Employees are encouraged to think creatively, share ideas, and take on responsibilities at all levels. The organization is committed to safeguarding and expects all employees to adhere to its core values.

NRC's Broader Impact

NRC's work extends to various regions facing crises, including Cox’s Bazar in response to the Rohingya crisis, and Sylhet in Bangladesh, addressing climate change impacts. Its integrated operations encompass shelter, WASH, emergency response, education, and information counseling, reaching over 150,000 people annually alongside partners.

Why Choose an NRC Internship?

An internship with the Norwegian Refugee Council offers a unique opportunity to contribute to humanitarian efforts, gain valuable experience in an international organization, and develop skills in various fields. Whether in Oslo, Geneva, or Washington, D.C., interns play a crucial role in supporting NRC's mission to assist and protect vulnerable and displaced people worldwide.

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