Peace and Security Working Group (PSWG) Intern at Mercy Corps

Program / Department Summary

• The Peace and Security Working Group (PSWG) was been established to enhance the effectiveness and coordination of interventions that are designed to reduce conflict, or to prevent the start or resumption of violent conflict in Nigeria.
• These activities may address the underlying drivers, neutralize potential triggers of violence, create a societal expectation for peaceful conflict resolution or stabilize society politically and socio-economically in the midst of crisis situations.
• The PSWG will mobilize various actors currently involved in or who will soon be involved in peace and security in Nigeria to develop and employ collective strategies and approaches to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of conflict management, CVE and peacebuilding initiatives throughout Nigeria.

General Position Summary

• This successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to test academic knowledge in real-life conflict scenarios, under the guidance of a highly professional team.
• The intern will further advance his/her knowledge in the program area and build interest in the field.
• He/she will also gain understanding of the skills and knowledge required for success in a global workplace.
• The intern will also develop decision-making and critical thinking skills, increase confidence and self-esteem.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• The PSWG intern will be a motivated learner and a passionate activist for the improvement of the peace and security situation in Nigeria and for the role of civil society in this context.
• As a support staff to the PSWG in Nigeria, s/he will assist in mobilizing PSWG members, preparing meetings, taking minutes and organizing trainings and events.
• This will be an opportunity for a committed worker to learn about coordination and the development sector in general, while developing research, analytical, communication and organizational skills.
• The intern will remain responsible for all costs associated with:
• Housing and personal living expenses
• Life and health insurance cover
• All other expenses not specified as a responsibility of the organization

Specific Duties

• Facilitate communication between PSWG members and follow up regularly for updates and contributions.
• Organize logistics for trainings, workshops, events and other PSWG activities.
• Update and maintain contact lists and file sharing platforms.
• File and archive information and documentation of PSWG’s activities.
• Maintain PSWG calendars (internal and external).
• Draft agendas/take meeting minutes and circulate to the identified recipient lists.
• Compile links to relevant media, reports, assessments, etc. from identified key sources.
• Follow up pending action points within PSWG members.
• Support in updating PSWG Workplan and Advocacy Strategy.
• Engage with external partners on relevant topics.
• Under the supervision of PSWG Manager, will work with external partners (NGOs, donors, Government, etc.) to plan/facilitate partnerships.
• Collect, organize and disseminate information from members of the PSWG on peace and security issues.
• Research on key principles, standards and best practices in conflict analysis, conflict management, peace messaging, peacebuilding, C/PVE etc.
• Potential field visits to collect information on current and potential PSWG members at field level.
• Mapping of project activities.

Knowledge and Experience

• Advanced University Degree in Political Science, International Relations, Journalism, Social Sciences, Peacebuilding, Conflict Management, International Development or related Technical field (minimum Bachelor's degree).
• Written and spoken fluency in English. Knowledge of Hausa is a plus.
• Willingness to learn and interest in peace and security related fields.
• Excellent writing, editing and analytical skills and ability to formulate well-targeted documents.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced and often demanding environment.
• Flexibility in terms of office hours.
• Experience in an NGO (local or international) or research institution.
• Knowledge of and contacts in Nigerian NGOs.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work assignments simultaneously.
• Ability to connect messages and content into stories easily understood by a broad audience.