World Justice Project

The World Justice Project

FSI Faculty Mentor:

Alberto Díaz-Cayeros,, Senior Fellow, Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies

About the World Justice Project:

The World Justice Project (WJP) is an independent, multidisciplinary organization working to create knowledge, build awareness, and stimulate action to advance the rule of law worldwide. WJP produces original, independent research and data about the rule of law, including the WJP Rule of Law Index; promotes understanding and appreciation for the rule of law, its relationship to development, and effective strategies to strengthen it; and connects and builds an engaged global network of policymakers and advocates to advance the rule of law through strategic partnerships, convenings, coordinated advocacy, and support for locally led initiatives.

Project:

The FSI Global Policy fellow will work for a period of 8 to 10 weeks during the summer of 2025. As part of a small team, the intern will provide crucial support to the WJP’s research team in the overall development of various reports. Specifically, the intern will work closely with their mentor to assist with report production for the annual WJP Rule of Law Index (which examines the extent to which countries adhere to the rule of law in practice) in 142 countries. In addition to this, the fellow will assist with other country-specific reports and thematic projects. 

The main responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct research to identify potential qualified respondents to contribute to the WJP Rule of Law Index;
• Participate in qualitative data validation activities for the 2025 WJP Rule of Law Index report, including the preparation of reports on current events in countries covered by the Index;
• Perform data processing and provide support to maintain a CRM database of experts in over 140 countries;
• Edit and proofread WJP publications, including country-specific reports and thematic projects; 
• Assist with preparations for meetings and presentations, including producing drafts of Microsoft PowerPoint presentations and handouts, and preparing and assembling outreach materials for external distribution;
• Provide general administrative support for WJP projects, including organizational work in Microsoft Excel and Word; assist with Index calendar management and logistics for travel and meetings, mass mailings, and other office and logistical support duties;
• Undertake rule of law research and analysis as necessary.

Eligibility and Skills Required:

The internship is open to continuing undergraduate and graduate students. Applicants from any department may apply. Applicants must be in good academic standing with a GPA of 3.3 or higher. Applicants with a strong interest in the rule of law, international experience, and foreign language skills are preferred. Additional requirements include:

• Strong research background with superior writing and proofreading skills;
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office (especially Excel), with preference given to those with prior experience/proven ability managing large databases;
• Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently and ability to give and receive feedback;
• Highly dependable with the ability to work in a team-oriented environment;
• Excellent problem solving skills, and attention to detail;
• Preferably at least one year of professional experience, including internships.

Language Requirement:

Proficiency in another language is not required; however, preference will be given to applicants with Arabic, French, Russian, Spanish, and/or Portuguese language skills.

For context, the intern will respond to emails from expert respondents during data collection for the WJP Rule of Law Index in the language of proficiency. Depending on proficiency levels, interns may also have the opportunity to edit questions included in foreign language surveys.

Location:

Washington, D.C.

Visa Requirements:

None.

Stipend:

FSI is committed to providing its opportunities to students regardless of financial constraints. FSI's Global Policy interns are provided with a stipend to cover travel and living expenses during the summer. These stipends do not exceed $7,000 per student. Students must submit a budget with their estimated costs along with their application. If you have additional financial constraints that you think may prevent you from participating in this program, please contact Academic Program Manager Patrick Laboon directly.

Application:

Applicants will be asked to submit:

• Application Form
• Name of faculty reference (letter of recommendation not required)
• CV/Resume
• Unofficial Transcript
• Budget

Frequently Asked Questions

Please note: You may only apply to one FSI Global Policy Internship.