Mensen met een Missie is an organisation for international cooperation and solidarity that aims to change beliefs that lead to hatred and violence. To do this, we’ve joined forces with around 100 partner organisations in Africa, Asia and Latin America. With people who have the courage to go against the current, who stick their necks out and stand up for justice, inclusion and equality. Together we facilitate dialogue between people on each side of a conflict. We inspire consideration and discussion of harmful beliefs, so that mutual hatred and mistrust can decrease. Our team in The Hague consists of about 25 people who work daily with passion and commitment, on building a world without violence.
For the Research & Learning team, we are looking for a Research Intern
Starting in Q1 2026 (1 February)
Duration: negotiable, with a minimum of 4 months (4–6 months preferred)
32 hours per week
Location: Mensen met een Missie offices in The Hague (hybrid work possible)
As an intern at Mensen met een Missie, you will gain extensive experience working within an international development and peacebuilding organisation. You will be part of a dynamic team, where you will both contribute to collective processes and be encouraged to take ownership of specific research assignments.
For this internship, the focus will be on applied research within The Peace Project, a multi-year peacebuilding programme implemented in Uganda, South Sudan, DR Congo, and Burundi. The research will centre on local approaches to peacebuilding, with a particular emphasis on the digital and online space, including issues such as online polarisation, digital resilience, and online community dynamics.
You will support ongoing research processes, collaborate with programme staff and external research partners, and contribute to knowledge products that inform practice and policy. The internship offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of peacebuilding, conflict dynamics, and qualitative research methods, while contributing meaningfully to an organisation committed to social justice, dialogue, and inclusive societies.
Main tasks and responsibilities include
• Supporting the design and implementation of research activities within The Peace Project.
• Conducting qualitative/quantitative data collection and analysis (e.g. interview coding, thematic analysis, synthesis of findings).
• Supporting research on digital peacebuilding, including online polarisation, digital resilience, and online community dynamics.
• Contributing to literature reviews, background papers, and policy-oriented outputs.
• Assisting in the development and refinement of research tools and templates.
• Supporting coordination with academic and practitioner research partners.
• Helping prepare research reports, presentations, and other knowledge products.
• Supporting broader Research & Learning tasks and the wider MM team where needed.
Your profile
• Enrolled in a university programme (Master’s level preferred) or recently graduated in Social Sciences, Conflict Studies, Development Studies, or a related field.
• Strong interest in development cooperation, peacebuilding, and social justice.
• Affinity with or experience in social scientific research methods, particularly qualitative research.
• Excellent writing skills in English.
• Knowledge of French is a strong asset.
• Knowledge of or interest in digital peacebuilding and online polarisation.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team.
• Knowledge of or interest in contexts in Africa
• Affinity with the identity and mission of Mensen met een Missie.
• European citizenship and/or a valid work permit for the Netherlands.
Our offer
An enriching internship within a dynamic, international organisation with dedicated and enthusiastic colleagues. Mensen met een Missie offers:
• An internship allowance of up to €500 gross per month.
• Reimbursement of travel expenses.
• The same number of leave days as other staff members.
• Opportunities to contribute meaningfully to real-world research and programme work.
• Guidance, mentoring, and skills development tailored to your academic and professional interests.
For questions regarding this internship, please contact:
Mark Hann – Research & Learning Coordinator
MarkHann@mensenmeteenmissie.nl
Please send your motivation letter and CV no later than Friday 16 January 2026 to:
sollicitatie@mensenmeteenmissie.nl
Interviews will take place in the second half of January 2026.
