Internship in the South and Central Asian Defence Strategy and Diplomacy Programme
Hours: 20 hours per week
Contract: Fixed-term (six weeks)
Location: London
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best-in-class, independent and impartial analysis and offer insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations.
An opportunity has arisen for an internship in the South and Central Asian Defence, Strategy and Diplomacy Programme’s team. The region covers Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and key Central Asian and Indian Ocean Island states.
Responsibilities:
- The intern will assist the IISS Head of the South and Central Asia Programme on regional security issues, with research work on India-Pakistan-Afghanistan.
- Preparing weekly briefings from local media reports on mutually-agreed topics.
- Researching and publishing a policy-relevant article jointly with the IISS Head of the South and Central Asia programme.
- Other administrative tasks, as needed.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in the field of international relations, defence and security, economics, or other relevant topics.
- Familiarity, including language skills, of one of the three regional countries.
- Has a prior publication record.
- Demonstrated ability to write to high standards of English.
Remuneration:
The IISS provides a full employment package. The benefits package at the Institute includes Life Assurance, Private Medical Insurance, BUPA health cashback plan, Season Ticket Loan, Cycle scheme and Contributory Pension Scheme. More information about the IISS can be found at
www.iiss.org.
Application:
Candidates should submit their applications by clicking the “Apply Now” blue button and following the instructions to submit two documents:
- a cover letter outlining what skills and experience you can bring to the role.
- a full Curriculum Vitae.
The deadline for receipt of applications is 7 August 2026.
Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
The recruitment process will include an in-person interview at the candidate’s nearest IISS office. Candidates should be prepared to travel accordingly, if selected for progression.
The IISS is an equal opportunities employer.