EU Advocacy Trainee

About Terre des Hommes Netherlands

Terre des Hommes Netherlands (TdH NL) protects children by preventing and stopping child exploitation, and by empowering children to make their voices count. 

Our strategic ambition is that by 2030, Terre des Hommes Netherlands is a catalyst for systemic change to stop child exploitation. We do this by empowering children and their communities, connecting them with those who have power to enact change, and utilising our knowledge and expertise to co-create sustainable, evidence-based solutions.In all we do, we stand strongly by our core values: Responsible, Bold, Human-Centred and Playful.

Working at our organisation is fighting against exploitation of children. Worldwide. Without discriminating. With respect for local cultures. We’re in this to make a relevant difference in the world. 

The Role 

The EU Advocacy Trainee is responsible for supporting our advocacy work.

The fun part of doing this role is that you will be part of an energetic team, collaborate with other NGOs and work on a topic at the forefront of the EU policy agenda.

You will be challenged by the pace and technicality of the topic, as well as the diversity of the tasks you will be involved in.

The Team

Our team consists of four colleagues across Belgium and The Netherlands focusing on advocacy on Sexual Exploitation of Children (SEC). We interact regularly with the broader SEC Programme team, as well as the Research and Influencing, Communications, and Child Labour Programme team.

Result Areas and Core Activities

You will support our ongoing EU advocacy work on online child sexual exploitation (OCSE). You may also be asked to contribute to our advocacy work in the Netherlands and globally. The specific tasks and projects will be defined in agreement with the trainee. Your tasks may include:

• Monitoring policy initiatives and developments at EU level relevant to online child sexual exploitation;


• Events attendance and reporting (e.g. policy conferences and workshops);


• Supporting the development and carrying out of lobby and advocacy initiatives at the EU level;


• Supporting the research work related to our advocacy and data analysis;


• Supporting our communication outputs, including social media posts;


• Translating advocacy messages into accessible, creative and easy-to-read products.

What you bring?

We are looking for a motivated and hands-on trainee, who:

• Has good oral and written communication skills in English;


• Master’s Degree in social sciences, human rights, child rights, gender studies, European studies, psychology, criminology, sociology, anthropology, international development studies, or any other relevant degree;


• Has knowledge on European institutions and EU policy-making; 


• Has experience (studies or work) with EU advocacy and/or communication;


• Has good analytical skills, experience with qualitative research methods and analysis is appreciated;


• Has good organisational skills;


• We appreciate special interests in and knowledge of especially marginalised groups, LGBTQI+ or disability rights;


• Work well independently and in teams, self-starter;


• Fluency in Dutch is an asset;


• Can legally work in the EU.

What we offer?

Terre des Hommes is a growing organisation on the move. This means a lot of room for your own initiative and ideas. As we manage and execute our own programmes and projects, the difference we make and therefore you make is tangible on a daily basis.

• A 6 month contract.


• The salary for this job is EUR 1095 per month based on a full time (38 hrs) contract.


• We offer a 36 hour contract which in our organisation equals a full time workweek. The pro of this is that one can work 4 x 9 and have one day per week off while still having a full time contract. You may spread the hours over the week matching your preference, in agreement with your manager.

• We work hybrid, so 50% office and 50% from home. Very flexible and with a positive effect on your work life balance.


• A shared open space in the thriving heart of Brussels.


• 5 days of paid leave per 6 month on a full time employment basis, if part time, days pro rata.


• Possible start date 1st September or as soon as possible.

How to apply?

Click the "Apply" button in the top right corner of this page and fill in all the required fields. Please also upload your most recent CV, highlighting your relevant experience, responsibilities, skills, and qualifications.

If you have any questions about the recruitment process, feel free to contact Sophie Schoonen at [email protected]. For questions regarding the content of the role itself, you can reach out to Nathalie Meurens at [email protected].