🇳🇱 Internship in the Netherlands 🔍 Open-Source Research and Analysis at the Chemical Weapons Watchdog 🌐 (€540/month stipend)

If you are interested in international security and open-source intelligence, this internship at the OPCW in The Hague is a fascinating opportunity. Within the Operations and Technology Support Branch, you will conduct open-source research supporting the mission of the organisation that works towards a world permanently free of chemical weapons.

About the Organisation

The OPCW internship programme is aimed at motivated students interested in gaining experience in international organisations, normally providing placements in the Technical Secretariat for three to six months. You will work with international experts towards the OPCW's mission of a world permanently free of chemical weapons, and be exposed to high-profile conferences, meetings, and analytical work. The Operations and Technology Support Branch (OTSB) coordinates all inspection missions and, through its InfoCell Unit, analyses information and briefs OPCW leadership to support decision-making and crisis management.

Purpose of the Internship

The internship provides a comprehensive learning experience in open-source research, giving you practical exposure to the full research cycle: identifying, collecting, verifying, analysing, and synthesising information from publicly available sources, while strengthening your critical thinking, source evaluation, and analytical writing.

Your Tasks

🔍 Monitor, analyse, and report on time-sensitive open-source information, including allegations of chemical weapons use, security threats to OPCW missions, and developments in conflict areas

📊 Conduct open-source research and contribute to the Information Cell's weekly and monthly reports and ad hoc analytical products

📝 Draft a working paper on the chemical weapons capabilities of a state not party to the CWC

🏭 Monitor open sources on major incidents at industrial chemical facilities worldwide and draft brief notes

📋 Contribute to developing templates for new reporting products, and maintain the list of sources used for open-source research

Who Can Apply

🎓 Enrolled in and having completed at least one year of a university degree, or in a graduate programme, or graduated within one year before the internship

🌍 A citizen of an OPCW Member State (which includes Türkiye), fluent in written and spoken English

📚 A degree in international relations, security studies, or a closely related field is preferred; knowledge of Arabic and/or Russian is an asset, as is experience drafting reports and analytical summaries

🔎 Strong analytical skills, good knowledge of Microsoft Office and Teams, and the ability to collaborate in a diverse team

The Details

📍 Duty station: The Hague, Netherlands

⏳ Duration: three to six months

💶 A monthly stipend of €540; interns are responsible for travel, visa, accommodation, and living costs, and must provide proof of sufficient financial means

How to Apply

Apply through OPCW CandidateSpace before the closing date; only fully completed applications are considered, and only applicants under serious consideration will be contacted.