About the programme

The APF Internship Programme is designed to give students first-hand exposure to the work of an international human rights organisation. Interns engage with real issues affecting the promotion and protection of human rights across the Asia Pacific, while developing skills that matter in today's professional landscape.

The internship is remote and flexible, it is not tied to a fixed academic semester, so it can be shaped around study schedules and availability. Interns are hosted for an agreed period and work on meaningful tasks across the APF's partnerships and development portfolio.

A key feature of the programme is structured mentorship. Each intern is mentored directly by the APF's Partnerships & Development Manager, with regular check-ins, feedback, and professional development support tailored to their goals and interests.

What you'll do

Depending on your background and interests, tasks may include:

• Stakeholder research and mapping
• Drafting partner briefings, meeting preparation materials, and engagement notes
• Supporting communications and outreach initiatives
• Coordinating internal meetings and producing documentation
• Contributing to outreach and engagement planning

What you'll gain

• Mentored learning with regular guidance and skills coaching
• Practical experience in research, policy writing, stakeholder engagement, and communications
• Exposure to international human rights practice across the Asia Pacific
• Portfolio-ready work products (where appropriate and approved)
• A written reference and certificate of completion upon satisfactory completion of the programme

Who should apply

We welcome expressions of interest from students of all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from those with academic or practical exposure to human rights, international law, public policy, international relations, development studies, or communications.

We actively seek a workplace and professional environment that reflects the communities we serve. We know that diverse teams build stronger services, and we encourage applications from students of all backgrounds, identities and life experiences.

Please note: The APF Internship Programme is unpaid and voluntary in nature. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the internship may be reimbursable with prior approval.

How to apply

To express your interest, please submit a brief Expression of Interest (EOI) including:

• Your name, academic institution, and current programme of study
• Your expected availability (start date, hours per week, preferred duration)
• A short statement (100-200 words) on why the APF is your choice and what you hope to learn
• Your current CV (1-2 pages max.)

Send your EOI to: jelenamilutinovic@asiapacificforum.net

Suitable candidates will be invited to a short introductory call before offersare made. For more information about the APF and our work, consult our website.