Are you interested in working with Democracy International? Whether you are a professional, a student seeking hands-on experience, or someone wishing to contribute your time as a volunteer, this page provides all the information you need.
Democracy International regularly offers internship and volunteering opportunities, particularly for young professionals who are eager to engage in meaningful work related to democracy and citizen participation.
We are currently looking for on-site interns in Cologne.
Democracy International warmly welcomes interns from all over the world. Our internships are designed to be meaningful, practical, and engaging, offering real insight into our work. If you are a student with a genuine interest in direct democracy and citizen participation, we would be pleased to hear from you.
We currently offer internship positions in four interconnected areas:
Social Media Intern
Starting: February
Duration: 2-3 months
Working mode: On-site internship
Description:
As a Social Media Intern, you will play a key role in shaping Democracy International’s digital presence. This position is ideal for someone creative, detail-oriented, and passionate about using social media to promote democracy and citizen participation. You will gain practical experience in strategic communication, storytelling, and digital campaigning within a dynamic international team.
You will contribute to content creation, manage our social media channels, report on events, and help communicate our work to a broad audience. This internship is a great opportunity to explore how digital tools can support democratic engagement and civic education.
Tasks:
- Managing Democracy International's social media accounts
- Creating content for social media and assisting the team with creative ideas to promote our issues and campaigns
- Reporting on events and activities
- Monitoring and compiling key developments related to direct democracy and citizen participation around the world
- Writing articles and blog posts on topics related to direct democracy and citizen participation
English language skills are required. Knowledge of German is considered an asset.
Contact:
proskurina@democracy-international.org
Global Programme Intern
Starting: February 2026
Duration: 2 to 6 months
Working mode: On-site internship
Description:
As the international programme intern, you will work on projects that connect democracy activists across borders, highlight their work, and foster global cooperation. Ideally, you are interested in direct and participatory democracy mechanisms worldwide, have strong intercultural communication skills, and are comfortable with event logistics. You will be introduced to inspiring global initiatives and support their promotion efforts.
German and English language skills are required.
Tasks:
- Support for international events (EU 4 Global, Life as an Activist, Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy): logistical support, preparing partner briefings, preparing reporting materials, and assisting in the development of educational toolkits (infographics, videos, animations, interactive games)
- Support during events in Germany on activism for democracy and sustainability
- Assistance with global advocacy campaigns (We the Peoples): research, compiling briefings, and drafting campaign materials
- Development of PR and campaigning materials
- Assistance with the International Democracy Community: platform management, research on civil society organisations, and article writing
European Programme Intern
Starting: Currently no positions are open in the European Programme. Please check back in mid-2026.
Duration: 3-6 months
Working mode: Hybrid internships may be possible upon further discussion
Description:
As a European Programme Intern, you will support Democracy International’s work to strengthen democracy at the European level. This position offers valuable insights into EU institutions and processes, with a particular focus on the European Citizens’ Initiative and related participatory tools.
You will be involved in policy monitoring, project coordination, and content creation. The role is well suited for individuals interested in EU affairs, participatory democracy, and stakeholder engagement. You will work closely with our European Programme team and help foster collaboration with partners and civil society actors across Europe.
Tasks:
- Monitoring EU democracy developments, with a focus on the European Citizens’ Initiative and the ECI Forum
- Supporting EU-funded projects, including reporting
- Drafting position papers, statements, blog posts, and newsletter articles
- Providing various forms of support for the European Programme, including outreach and management of partnerships and stakeholder relationships
Contact: vancic@democracy-international.org
English language skills are required. Prior knowledge in European studies is considered an advantage.
Fundraising Intern
Starting: Flexible
Duration: 3 to 6 months
Working mode: On-site internship (hybrid may be discussed)
Description:
As a Fundraising Intern, you will support Democracy International in strengthening its financial sustainability through donor engagement, funding research, and the preparation of grant applications. This role offers valuable insight into the strategic and operational side of civil society work, particularly in relation to international democracy promotion.
You will gain hands-on experience with institutional fundraising, supporter communications, and proposal writing. The position is well suited for individuals with a keen interest in nonprofit development, strategic planning, and writing with impact.
Tasks:
- Researching funding opportunities from foundations, public institutions, and international donors
- Supporting the preparation of grant applications and reports
- Assisting with the development of donor communication materials
- Helping maintain fundraising databases and documentation
- Supporting internal planning processes and fundraising strategy
Contact: hardt@democracy-international.org
English language skills are required. Knowledge of German is considered an asset.
*We also welcome students through the Erasmus+ internship programme.
If you are interested in completing an internship with us, please send an email to the relevant department manager. Include your curriculum vitae (CV) and a short message explaining your areas of interest and how you would like to contribute. We value initiative and look forward to hearing your ideas.
Democracy International offers young professionals and engaged individuals the opportunity to contribute to democratic participation through both structured international volunteering programmes and on-site volunteer engagement.
Our volunteering programmes are designed to provide hands-on experience in democracy work, international exchange, and civic engagement. These programmes are ideal for young professionals who are passionate about global cooperation and sustainable development.
Before applying, please read the application guidelines carefully and ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for each programme.
weltwärts
Through the German development volunteer service weltwärts ("towards the world"), two young South Africans are invited each year to volunteer full-time with Democracy International in Germany for a period of 12 to 18 months. During their stay, volunteers receive a monthly stipend to cover their living expenses.
This programme offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into international democracy work while living and working in a new cultural context. Read more here
ASA programme
Are you interested in contributing to global sustainable development? Would you like to take part in an international exchange and develop your professional skills in a collaborative setting?
The ASA Programme offers exactly that. Over the course of six months, you will work with a team of three other young professionals on issues related to sustainable development. Participants are awarded one of 280 scholarships provided annually by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
This programme is ideal for individuals committed to learning, intercultural cooperation, and global responsibility. Read more here
European Solidarity Corps
Democracy International offers young people the opportunity to take part in the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) programme, supporting democratic participation through international volunteering. The ESC allows participants to gain hands-on experience, engage with democracy work in a European context, and contribute to meaningful civic projects. Read more here
In addition to these structured programmes, we also welcome volunteers to join us on-site in Cologne and support our team across various areas of activity. If you are interested in contributing your time and skills, please reach out to hardt@democracy-international.org to explore available opportunities.
At present, there are no open job positions at Democracy International.
Please check back soon or follow us on social media for future opportunities.
