The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on a commitment to advance the rule of law in the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, conducting law school accreditation, developing model ethics codes and more. Today, the ABA remains a member-based organization that works to ensure access to justice for all, a fair legal process, and respect for the rule of law at home and across the globe.

The ABA is committed to service and refining the standards that guide the legal profession. ABA staff are provided multiple types of continuing education and career development opportunities. Your work will help eliminate bias, enhance diversity, and advance the rule of law throughout the US and around the world.

The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security. The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits.

Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, IA, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI. Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Description of Internship Program and Training

• ABA ROLI's Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Division seeks an unpaid intern to collaborate with the division on rule of law programs across the region. The intern will engage in a wide range of tasks including, but not limited to, developing outreach materials and reports, conducting targeted research, assisting to edit progress reports, and coordinating the development of monitoring and evaluation tracking systems. The intern will also participate in exploration of opportunities for new programs, for example, conducting research for new program development and potential funding opportunities within the scope of ABA ROLI’s programs. The intern will also work closely with DC and regional staff to assist in the development of concept notes or proposals. Interns will gain hands-on experience working at a non-profit, growing their expertise of international development and the day-to-day function of grant-funded organizations.

Eligibility Criteria

• Currently enrolled in a post-secondary academic institution (i.e., undergraduate, graduate) and enrolled in a program/area of study directly related to the purpose of the internship program.
• A recent (i.e., up to one (1) year) graduate of a post-secondary academic institution (i.e., undergraduate, graduate) with a degree in a program/area of study directly related to the purpose of the internship program.
• Candidates must be 18 years old or older.

Relevant Program/Area of Study

• International Relations, Political Science, Pre-Law, Global Studies, Spanish, or fields related to international development, government, and/or Hispanic Studies.

Additional Desired Qualifications:
• Interest in rule of law, international development, civil society engagement, civic education, legal clinical education, or other relevant subjects.
• In the process of obtaining or already possessing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Working fluency in Spanish.
• Creativity and the ability to use storytelling to build support for our work.
• Strong research and writing skills.
• Candidates who have or are currently working toward a law degree or a master’s degree in a relevant field.

Proposed Start/End Dates of Internship

• Start: January 2025
• End: May 2025

Duration of Internship

• Sixteen (16) weeks
• Hours per week (20 hours max.)

Work Location: Combination of in office and remote/telework.

The American Bar Association is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with the American Bar Association, please call 312-988-5188.

ROLI Latin America - Spring Unpaid Intern - Career Portal