Apply for the Mercy Corps Policy and Advocacy Internship 2026 in Washington, D.C. Gain hands-on experience in humanitarian policy, advocacy, and U.S. foreign assistance. Paid internship: $3,207/month.
Introduction
The Mercy Corps Policy and Advocacy Internship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain professional experience at the intersection of international development, humanitarian assistance, and U.S. foreign policy. Based in Washington, D.C., this three-month paid internship runs from mid-January to mid-April 2026, with a monthly stipend of $3,207.
As part of Mercy Corps’ Policy and Advocacy team, the intern will help advance policies that support the organization’s global mission — building stronger, more resilient communities around the world. This internship provides valuable insight into how policy decisions impact humanitarian action, economic growth, and development outcomes.
Internship Details
- Position Title: Policy and Advocacy Intern
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Duration: Mid-January 2026 – Mid-April 2026 (3 months)
- Work Hours: 32 hours per week
- Compensation: $3,207/month
- Supervisor: Senior Policy Advisor
- Organization: Mercy Corps
About Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps is a leading global humanitarian organization working in over 40 countries to help people overcome crises and build better lives. Guided by the belief that a better world is possible, Mercy Corps delivers innovative solutions to some of the world’s toughest challenges — from disaster recovery and conflict response to economic development and climate resilience.
The Policy and Advocacy Team serves as Mercy Corps’ voice in Washington, D.C., engaging directly with the U.S. government, Congress, and partner organizations to influence policies that shape humanitarian and development outcomes globally.
Project Description for Mercy Corps Policy and Advocacy Internship 2026
The Policy and Advocacy Internship provides hands-on exposure to U.S. and global policy processes. The intern will support the team’s engagement with U.S. policymakers, contribute to advocacy materials, and participate in coalition efforts with other NGOs.
Key Areas of Work
- Congressional Advocacy: Support direct engagement with U.S. House and Senate offices, assist with hearings, and track legislative developments.
- Administration Engagement: Participate in meetings with U.S. government agencies and assist in preparing briefings for senior policymakers.
- Coalition Building: Contribute to InterAction working groups and joint NGO advocacy efforts.
- Public Education: Help develop materials to raise awareness about U.S. foreign assistance and humanitarian impact.
- Field Coordination: Assist with planning Washington, D.C. visits for field staff and ensure effective follow-up with partners.
Intern Responsibilities
The intern will work closely with the Policy and Advocacy team to:
- Conduct research and prepare summaries on U.S. federal policy, budget appropriations, and global development priorities.
- Draft internal and external communications, including policy briefs, memos, and background documents.
- Support organization of meetings, advocacy events, and Congressional visits.
- Track news coverage, hearings, and policy developments relevant to Mercy Corps’ work.
- Develop databases, spreadsheets, and presentation materials for team projects.
- Participate in internal strategy sessions and external coalition meetings.
Learning Objectives
This internship is designed to build practical policy and advocacy skills. By the end of the program, interns will:
- Understand how U.S. foreign assistance and development policy are formulated and implemented.
- Gain insight into the relationship between international policy, programming, and humanitarian outcomes.
- Learn key advocacy tools and communication strategies used by NGOs to influence policy.
- Strengthen research, analytical, and written communication skills.
- Build professional networks in the fields of foreign policy, global development, and humanitarian aid.
Deliverables
During the internship, the intern will:
- Produce concise policy and research briefs.
- Assist in drafting talking points, factsheets, and advocacy materials.
- Track and report on the U.S. government’s annual appropriations process.
- Summarize key takeaways from Congressional hearings and NGO meetings.
- Contribute to internal communications via Mercy Corps’ intranet and newsletters.
Candidate Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within one year) from a degree program in International Relations, Public Policy, Public Administration, International Development, or a related field.
- Availability to work 32 hours per week, including one in-person day per week at Mercy Corps’ Washington, D.C. office.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong computer proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and Google Workspace.
- Demonstrated interest in humanitarian and development issues.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience with Capitol Hill, federal agencies, or policy organizations.
- Knowledge of U.S. foreign assistance, humanitarian funding, or international affairs.
- Familiarity with Mercy Corps’ areas of operation or thematic priorities (e.g., food security, climate resilience, peacebuilding).
Supervision and Support
Interns will be supervised by a Senior Policy Advisor and will receive:
- Regular mentorship and feedback sessions.
- Access to Mercy Corps’ digital library and The Hub.
- Participation in organizational events and policy briefings.
Interns are responsible for personal expenses, including accommodation, travel, and living costs.
Organizational Culture and Ethics
Mercy Corps fosters a culture of trust, diversity, respect, and inclusion, empowering every team member to reach their full potential. The organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring fair treatment regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, disability, or any other protected status.
Mercy Corps also upholds strict safeguarding and ethics policies to protect the dignity and rights of all individuals engaged in its programs. Interns are expected to complete mandatory Code of Conduct training upon onboarding.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit the following:
- Resume highlighting education and relevant experience.
- Cover Letter explaining interest in the Policy and Advocacy Internship and career aspirations in humanitarian or policy work.
Apply through the official Mercy Corps Careers Page under the Policy & Advocacy Washington, D.C. listing.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for interviews.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Mercy Corps Policy and Advocacy Internship paid?
Yes. Interns receive a monthly stipend of $3,207 for the duration of the internship.
2. Who can apply for this internship?
Current students or recent graduates (within one year) in relevant fields such as International Relations, Policy, or Development Studies.
3. Is the internship remote or in-person?
The position is based in Washington, D.C. and requires at least one in-person day per week.
4. When does the internship start?
The internship runs from mid-January 2026 to mid-April 2026.
5. What are the key learning outcomes?
Interns will gain insights into U.S. foreign policy processes, NGO advocacy, and international development programming.
6. Are there opportunities for full-time employment afterward?
While there is no guaranteed employment, interns who excel may be considered for future Mercy Corps roles or projects.
7. Who will I report to?
The intern will be supervised by a Senior Policy Advisor within the Policy and Advocacy team.
Final Thoughts
The Mercy Corps Policy and Advocacy Internship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for emerging professionals to gain practical experience in global development policy, humanitarian strategy, and U.S. advocacy work. The program combines professional mentorship, policy engagement, and meaningful project participation — equipping interns with the skills needed to shape future humanitarian action.
Take the first step toward a career in global policy and humanitarian advocacy.
Apply Now: Mercy Corps Careers Page
Keywords
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