MSF is an international, independent medical humanitarian organization. We are a non-profit, self-governed worldwide movement of more than 63,000 people.We provide emergency medical assistance during armed conflict, natural disasters, outbreaks of deadly diseases and assist those who are excluded from healthcare. MSF delivers care based on need and when we see injustice, we speak out. We are an organization that remains impartial, knowledgeable, and effective, and this is what makes the difference between life and death.People are our priority. At Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)/Artsen zonder Grenzen, we are committed to an inclusive culture that encourages and supports the diverse voices of our employees. We encourage diverse applicants including individuals of all gender identities, ages, sexual orientations, nationalities, ethnic backgrounds, religions, beliefs, social and marital status, people with different abilities and all other diversity characteristics and how they intersect together.The Department of Operational Support Communications, Advocacy and Reflection (OSCAR) of the MSF Operational Centre of Amsterdam (MSF-OCA) is looking for:Legal Intern—MSF Humanitarian Affairs Unit (20-40hrs)International (Humanitarian) Law, Criminal Law (national and/or international), Medico-legal(Based in NL)OSCAR Department OverviewThe OSCAR Department is part of MSF-OCA and brings together our work on humanitarian affairs, operational communications, and advocacy. Our purpose is to better understand the challenges faced by the people we assist, amplify their voices, and advocate for meaningful change.OSCAR is made up of two units:Humanitarian Affairs Unit: Examines humanitarian issues and develops advocacy strategies. The team listens to and learns from communities, explores the political, social and legal frameworks that affect them, and works to ensure their POVs are reflected into meaningful action.Operational Communications Unit: Speaks out on what MSF witnesses, raises alerts when communities are at risk, and makes sure that their experiences are shared with the wider world through powerful visual, written, and oral communication(s).Together, these units keep MSF-OCA committed to témoignage (bearing witness) and strengthen our advocacy so that the rights, dignity, and voices of the communities we serve are never ignored.Where the Role SitsThe intern will work within the Humanitarian Affairs Unit, supporting the Humanitarian Affairs and Legal Advisor. The Humanitarian Affairs and Legal Advisor provides legal advice to MSF-OCA’s country and HQ teams and plays a critical role in providing expertise on international law, medico-legal issues, and other legal frameworks that underpin MSF’s operations and advocacy efforts. This internship offers a unique opportunity to engage with the legal and ethical dimensions of MSF’s humanitarian work.Main responsibilitiesThe Legal Intern will support the Humanitarian Affairs Unit with legal analysis linked to MSF’s humanitarian work. Tasks include:Conduct legal research and analysis on public international law, including international humanitarian law, refugee law, human rights law, and national legislation related to, among others, patient rights, medical ethics and sexual and reproductive healthcare.Support with tasks related to humanitarian affairs analysis and advocacy.Draft notes, summaries, and other legal documents.Take minutes and prepare meeting notes.RequirementsEducationCurrently enrolled at a higher education institute, preferably pursuing a Master's degree in law (e.g., Public International Law, International Humanitarian Law, International Criminal Law, or related field).ExperienceWe are seeking motivated and committed Master’s students, with a legal background, who are eager to contribute to meaningful work in the field of international law and humanitarian issues.Previous experience in a law firm, NGO or UN Agency legal office focusing on international law or humanitarian topics is an advantage but not mandatory.Skills and Competencies:Strong research, analytical, and drafting skills.Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite is a plus.Critical thinking and the ability to synthesize large amounts of information into clear, accessible content for non-legal professionals.Flexibility and adaptability to work in a fast-paced environment.A collaborative and team-oriented mindset.Eagerness, enthusiasm, and openness to support tasks beyond legal files.Excellent command of English is mandatory; good command of other languages (e.g., French) is an asset.Genuine interest in MSF’s medical-humanitarian mission and activities.We offerThe opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals who are passionate about humanitarian work, advocacy, sharing their knowledge with you.A chance to get to know the internal environment of an international NGO and to learn about medical emergencies around the globe.A fixed contract based on 20-40 hours a week for a minimum period of at least 4 months.Working hours per week and remote working hours can be discussed and adapted flexibly in accordance with the line manager.Commuting allowance and work from home allowance (terms and conditions apply).Discounted daily lunch at the office.Interns must reside in the Netherlands during their internship. An intern is responsible for their own visa administration – MSF-NL does not sponsor work and residence permits for interns.Information and applicationIf you recognise yourself in this profile, we welcome you to apply directly via our website and upload a letter of motivation + Curriculum Vitae (in English) as one combined document.The closing date for applications is 22 September 2025.Selection will be by means of one interviewing round. Upon being the selected candidate, the intern must submit relevant diplomas, academic transcripts and/or certificates to the HR Department for verification.For more information about the recruitment procedure, please contact Emma Register (Recruitment) at emma.register@amsterdam.msf.orgFor more information about the position, please contact Eva Linaki (Humanitarian Affairs Advisor- Legal) at Eva.Linaki@amsterdam.msf.org
