Conflict resolution, prevention, and transformation: Search for Common Ground

ABOUT SFCG-IIP
The Search for Common Ground’s International Internship Program is a summer internship program designed to encourage young people interested in pursuing a field in conflict transformation to gain invaluable field experience. The program is open to students (preferably at graduate level) and recent graduates in the USA and internationally, who are self-funded and available to work between 2 and 3 months from May 2009.

Founded in 1982, Search for Common Ground works to transform the way the world deals with conflict - away from adversarial approaches and towards collaborative problem solving. We work with local partners to find culturally appropriate means to strengthen societies' capacity to deal with conflicts constructively: to understand the differences and act on the commonalities.

Using innovative tools and working at different levels of society, we engage in a pragmatic long-term process of conflict transformation. Our toolbox includes media production – radio, TV, film and print - mediation and facilitation, training, community organizing, sports, drama and music. We promote both individual and institutional change and are committed to measuring the results of our work. We strive to constantly increase our effectiveness through monitoring and facilitated learning.

Who is eligible?
To qualify for an International Internship at SFCG, you must meet the following requirements:

What key skills is SFCG Looking For?
SFCG is looking to receive applications from a broad range of candidates. Specific elements that are preferred for M&E interns include previous experience conducing research, monitoring or evaluation. This might include methodology design, quantitative or qualitative research methods, and experience at data analysis. Applicants with a journalism background are also encouraged to apply for the programmatic support positions. Consideration will also be given to applicants with previous experience living in a developing country, and strong language skills in the relevant languages of the host countries.

Where will internships be available? May I apply to work in a specific country?
In 2009, SFCG expects to offer around 10 international Internships. The complete list of internships will not be finalized until after the application deadline but will likely be from the following countries: Angola, Burundi, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Liberia, Nepal, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Indonesia, and Israel/Palestine (based in Jerusalem).

You may indicate country preferences on your application form but we cannot guarantee your first choice. Much will depend on your language ability and skill set. If you are applying for Indonesia, Nepal or Israel/Palestine you must make this clear on the application subject line.

IIP ALUMNI

“Between June and August 2008 I did an evaluation on Golden Kids News, SFCG in Sierra Leone’s children's radio program, to determine its impact on the protection of children around the country. I engaged over 200 participants in three different regions through focus group discussions and in-depth individual interviews. My research found that GKN is helping to give children a voice in issues that concern them, is improving the way society views and treats children and is supporting structures set up by the government and civil society to advocate for children's rights and responsibilities. On a personal note, I have learned a great deal about working in the conflict resolution field, the problems this country faces, and my own desire and capacity to work and live in a different culture. Field research is more challenging than I thought it would be, but I also find that I enjoy it and look forward to returning to Sierra Leone in the future.”

Erica – Sierra Leone 2008

When do internships take place?
Semester-long internships are generally 3 months long. Depending on the countries where they are placed, Interns will begin work between May & June 2009 and will complete their fellowships between August & September 2009.

Does SFCG fund interns?
SFCG does not provide funding for International Internships. You may wish to explore what funding your academic institutions might offer before applying. While Interns are expected to cover the cost of travel to the program and their daily expenses in the country, SFCG will supply accommodation, provide travel insurance, and pay interns a per diem rate at the same level of local staff for work conducted away from wherever they are based for their internship. The approximate cost of living differs between locations but a rough average of $500 per month is normally sufficient.

How do I apply?
The application deadline is February 15, 2009. All applications should be emailed. References may arrive by post or email, but should be received no later than February 20.

What is the timeline?
The application deadline is February 15, 2009. Interviews will be held, either by phone or in person from March 7, with successful applicants informed by March 21. Orientation in Washington for those able to attend will take place at the end of May, with internships expected to begin in early June. Nb. start dates are flexible depending on the needs of the country programme and the intern.

What else is required?
Successful candidates will be encouraged to attend a pre-departure orientation program, which will be held from May 27-29 2009 in SFCG’s Washington D.C. office. A similar orientation may be held in Brussels for European applicants.

In addition applicants with relevant research experience should submit a short sample of their work, including the methodology they used where appropriate.

International Internship Program (SFCG-IIP)