The International Criminal Court (ICC) offers internship opportunities to students and young professionals interested in gaining experience in the field of international law and justice. As the first permanent international court established to prosecute individuals for war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity, the ICC plays a vital role in upholding human rights and promoting global accountability. Internships at the ICC provide a unique opportunity to work alongside legal professionals, prosecutors, investigators, and other experts in international justice, offering invaluable exposure to the workings of an institution dedicated to international criminal law.
Interns at the ICC are typically involved in assisting with legal research, case preparation, and analysis, providing support to the various divisions of the court, including the Office of the Prosecutor, the Registry, and the Chambers. These internships allow interns to develop a deeper understanding of the ICC’s judicial processes, from pre-trial investigations to courtroom proceedings and post-trial analysis. Interns may also be assigned tasks related to drafting legal documents, summarizing case law, and attending court hearings, all of which enhance their legal and analytical skills.
Specificities Of The Program
In addition to legal tasks, interns may also work on policy-related research or communications, supporting the ICC’s outreach initiatives. This may include preparing reports, organizing events, or conducting research on international law trends and their impact on the court’s work. The ICC’s mission of achieving global justice means that interns are exposed to complex legal issues that often involve multiple jurisdictions, cultures, and perspectives, enriching their professional experience.
Internships at the ICC are highly competitive and are usually offered to those studying or holding degrees in international law, criminal law, political science, human rights, or related fields. Applicants are expected to have a solid academic record and demonstrate a strong interest in international criminal justice. Fluency in English or French, the ICC’s working languages, is essential, and proficiency in additional languages such as Arabic, Spanish, or Swahili can be advantageous, especially given the ICC’s jurisdiction over cases from various parts of the world.
The ICC offers internships throughout the year, with opportunities to work in The Hague, Netherlands, where the court is based. Interns generally commit to working full-time for a period of three to six months, depending on the requirements of the specific internship. While these internships are unpaid, the experience gained, and the networking opportunities available, make them highly valuable for those pursuing careers in international law, diplomacy, or human rights advocacy.
Working as an intern at the ICC can be a transformative experience. Interns gain firsthand exposure to high-profile cases and issues of global significance, such as prosecuting war criminals or investigating human rights abuses in conflict zones. The ICC’s commitment to justice, fairness, and impartiality is evident in the everyday work of the court, and interns are often deeply inspired by the dedication of the professionals they work alongside.
Interning at the ICC also allows individuals to broaden their global perspective. The court’s multinational environment fosters collaboration and dialogue among people from diverse cultural and legal backgrounds, helping interns understand the complexities of applying international law across different regions and systems. This cultural exchange can be particularly enriching for interns, providing them with skills and insights that are beneficial for future roles in international organizations, governmental agencies, or non-governmental organizations.
Summary
The internship at the International Criminal Court is an opportunity for aspiring legal professionals and human rights advocates. It offers the chance to work on significant legal issues, gain practical experience in international criminal law, and contribute to the global pursuit of justice. For those passionate about making a difference in the fight against impunity for serious crimes, the ICC internship program is a gateway to a rewarding career in international justice.
More To Explore Asian Development Bank Internship
Online Apply
Use the link to finalize your application through the Internet.