Climate & Environment Internship 2026 — Washington, DC | Heinrich Böll Foundation

Introduction

The Heinrich Böll Foundation (HBF) in Washington, DC invites applications for its Climate & Environment Internship — an opportunity for emerging changemakers passionate about environmental justice, policy innovation, and global sustainability. Two internship placements are available for Spring 2026 (starting March 2, 2026) and Fall 2026 (starting September 14, 2026).

This internship offers an immersive experience in climate diplomacy, transatlantic policy, and environmental advocacy. Selected interns will collaborate closely with the Climate & Environmental Policy Program Director, gaining hands-on exposure to research, communications, and project coordination in an international policy setting.

About the Program

The Climate & Environmental Policy Program at HBF focuses on advancing progressive solutions to ecological challenges in North America while strengthening U.S.–Europe collaboration on sustainable futures. Core areas of engagement include:

• Climate migration and justice
• Industrial and trade policy
• Land use and environmental equity
• Extractive economies and policy reform

Interns may also support other programs such as Foreign & Security Policy, Global Development, or Communications—ensuring a well-rounded understanding of intersectional global issues.

Internship Responsibilities

Research & Policy Support

• Conduct background research on climate-related topics and current policy debates.
• Prepare materials for events, publications, and stakeholder engagements.

Communications & Outreach

• Develop digital content and manage social media strategy.
• Assist in maintaining HBF’s website and blogs.

Administrative Tasks

• Support event logistics and visitor coordination.
• Handle front desk communication and database updates.

Capstone Project
Each intern completes a capstone on a topic of personal and professional interest, which may take the form of:

• A 5–10 page policy paper
• A video interview or short documentary
• A blog series or op-ed collection

Who Can Apply

The internship is designed for undergraduate (at least 2 years completed) or recent Bachelor’s graduates. Applicants should have:

• Academic or practical experience in environmental or policy fields.
• Strong interest in HBF’s mission of promoting democracy, human rights, and sustainability.
• Excellent written and spoken English (German not required).
• Availability for full-time (40 hours/week) participation for 3–6 months.

Note: Mid-career professionals and postgraduate degree holders (Master’s or Ph.D.) are not eligible.

Compensation & Benefits

• Monthly stipend: $700 (full-time)
• Paid vacation: 5 days per 3-month term
• Visa support: J-1 visa costs covered for eligible candidates

Applicants are encouraged to secure external scholarships or housing support, as living expenses in Washington, DC can be high.

Application Deadline

November 2, 2025

Required Documents:

1. U.S.-style resume
2. Cover letter
3. Challenge Statement (max 250 words): Reflect on what’s missing in transatlantic climate discourse and how you’d address it at HBF.

Apply Now

📍 Apply via Heinrich Böll Foundation’s Official Portal
🗓️ Spring 2026 Start: March 2, 2026
🗓️ Fall 2026 Start: September 14, 2026
📅 Deadline: November 2, 2025

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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