Kick-start your career in diplomacy and policy! Are you looking for a role where your work genuinely matters? Do you want to be at the heart of UK–Ireland relations, working on real political and policy issues from day one?

Join the British Embassy in Dublin as a Policy Intern and gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.

Who are we?

The British Embassy in Dublin is part of a world-wide network, representing UK political, economic and consular interests overseas. We work closely with government, business, media and civil society to support UK priorities, strengthen bilateral partnerships, and shape the relationship between the UK and Ireland.

We are currently recruiting two Policy Interns to join our Political Team, offering a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the heart of UK–Ireland relations.

Main purpose of the role

As a Policy Intern, you will support the Embassy’s Political Team in delivering UK objectives in Ireland. You will gain first-hand exposure to diplomacy, international relations and policymaking, contributing to meaningful work that informs decision-making in both Dublin and London.

This role is an excellent opportunity for someone at an early stage of their career who is curious, proactive and motivated to engage with complex political and policy issues in a dynamic, international environment.

We are recruiting two interns for two consecutive six-month placements, and candidates will be able to indicate their preferred period during the Application process (e.g. autumn–spring or spring–summer).

What you will do?

You will work across a broad range of policy areas and activities, including:

Policy & Analysis

• Research and analyse political, economic and policy developments in Ireland.
• Produce reporting to inform UK Government understanding and decision-making.
• Contribute to work on UK–Ireland relations, EU developments and foreign policy priorities.

Engagement & Events

• Build relationships with stakeholders across government, business and academia.
• Support organisation of high-level visits, meetings and events.
• Assist with stakeholder engagement to advance UK priorities.

Communications & Media

• Help create engaging content for Embassy social media channels.
• Support media activity, public diplomacy campaigns and events.
• Contribute ideas to strengthen communications initiatives.

Wider Team Support

• Assist with coordination, logistics and administrative tasks.
• Contribute to a dynamic team environment and support a range of ad hoc activities.

What will you love about this role

• Real impact from day one – your work directly contributes to understanding and shaping UK policy.
• Exposure to senior stakeholders – work closely with decision-makers and policy professionals.
• Variety – no two days are the same; from political reporting to events and media.
• Learning and development – gain practical experience in diplomacy, policy and government.
• Strong team environment – collaborative, supportive and fast-paced.

Our ideal candidate shows:

• fluency in both oral and written English (minimum of C1 level for CEFR framework*);
• A relevant higher education degree (e.g. Public Policy, Politics, International Relations, Diplomacy), either recently completed or nearing completion;
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with experience of coordinating/supporting events;
• A good understanding of current affairs, with a genuine interest in foreign policy;
• In-depth knowledge of Irish politics and society;
• A collaborative mindset, with the ability to work flexibly, deliver at pace and remain resilient under pressure;
• Confidence and professionalism when engaging with a wide range of stakeholders;
• You will also bring a positive and flexible approach to work, with a willingness to adapt to changing priorities and take on a variety of tasks across a dynamic team environment.