International Criminal Court

ICC Office of Public Counsel for Victims Internship 2026

Are you a passionate legal student ready to advocate for global justice and support the most vulnerable on an international stage? The International Criminal Court (ICC) is seeking a dedicated Legal Intern for the Office of Public Counsel for Victims at its headquarters in The Hague. Step into a vital role where your legal research and drafting skills will directly assist victims of grave international crimes in seeking reparations and participating in historic proceedings.

Particulars & Details

About the Role & Work Environment

The International Criminal Court (ICC) investigates and tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The Statute of the ICC establishes a unique system for the participation of victims in proceedings, providing them with the right to apply for reparations. Given the complexity of these procedures, the Office of Public Counsel for Victims was established to represent and assist victims. While it falls within the Registry for administrative purposes, the Office functions as a wholly independent entity. Interns will join a highly professional, multicultural environment to support external legal representatives and ensure victims' voices are heard in the pursuit of global justice.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of a legal officer, the selected intern will perform the following critical tasks:

• Assist in drafting detailed legal memoranda and produce comprehensive research on a wide range of complex legal issues.
• Prepare factual background documents detailing the situations and specific cases brought before the Court.
• Assist the team in drafting formal legal opinions and advisory notes.
• Meticulously review evidence and prepare structured witness summaries for the legal representatives.
• Undertake various ad hoc legal assignments as requested to support the daily operations of the Office.

Eligibility Criteria & Qualifications

• Educational Status: Candidates must have a Law degree or be in the final stages of their legal studies at a recognized university, with a very good record of academic performance. Studies in criminal law, public international law, humanitarian law, human rights law, or comparative law are considered a major asset.
• Experience: While practical experience is not an essential prerequisite, relevant experience of up to three years may be considered a strong asset.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in either French or English (the working languages of the Court) is strictly required. A working knowledge of the other is highly desirable, and knowledge of Arabic or Filipino (Tagalog) is a strong asset.
• Core Competencies: Must be able to adapt to a multicultural working environment, possess strong teamwork and communication skills, and maintain a good standard of computer literacy.
• Diversity: Nationals from non-represented and under-represented countries at the ICC are strongly encouraged to apply in line with geographical representation efforts.

Remuneration & Conditions

• Unfunded Status: Internship and visiting professional placements at the ICC are strictly unfunded. The ICC does not provide remuneration or reimburse any expenses incurred before, during, or after the internship.
• Self-Support: Applicants must have the financial means to support themselves in The Hague for the entire 6-month duration of the placement.

How to Apply

1. Ensure you have all required documents ready: A completed "Duties and Responsibilities Form", a motivation letter (maximum 400 words), two reference letters (at least one academic), scanned university degrees/diplomas, and scanned official academic transcripts.
2. Your motivation letter should be written in either English or French and concisely explain your passion for international criminal justice and victim advocacy.
3. Navigate to the official ICC eRecruitment portal using the link provided below.
4. Search for Requisition ID 24372 to locate the Office of Public Counsel for Victims internship.
5. Submit your comprehensive application package online before the deadline of midnight (The Hague time) on 19 April 2026. Only successful applicants will be contacted.

Important Links

• Apply Online: Click Here to Submit Application via ICC Careers
• Learn About the ICC: Discover the International Criminal Court

FAQs

• Where is this internship located? The internship is based on-site at the ICC headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands.
• Is this a paid internship? No, all ICC internships are entirely self-funded. You must cover your own travel, accommodation, and living expenses.
• What languages do I need to know? You must be proficient in either English or French. Knowing both, or possessing skills in Arabic or Tagalog, will give you a distinct advantage.
• How long is the internship program? Interns are required to commit to working full-time for a continuous period of six months.

Disclaimer: This opportunity is shared for informational purposes only. We at 99jobs.org are not the organizing or recruiting institution. We do not accept or process applications and cannot influence selection decisions. Applicants must apply directly through the official organization website. Please verify all details from the official source before applying.

Also check:
 International Criminal Court (ICC) is offering Internship 2026