LGBT Rights Program (LAC) Intern

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that was established to conduct in-depth investigations and provide incisive and timely reporting on human rights issues globally. HRW is known for its innovative and high-profile advocacy campaigns that aim to change the policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions. The organization operates in multiple countries around the world, employing a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds and perspectives. HRW actively seeks to promote diversity within its workforce and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their disability, age, gender identity, national origin, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. HRW has a strong mission to uphold human rights and advocate for those whose rights are violated, making it a significant player in the global human rights landscape.

Job Overview:
The LGBT Rights Program Intern will be based in the Berlin office and will support the work of Human Rights Watch in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The intern's primary focus will be on monitoring LGBT rights in the LAC region, conducting targeted research on relevant laws and policies, and preparing written reports and products based on their findings. The internship is designed for students who are currently enrolled in a relevant field of study and is expected to last for three months, with the possibility of extension. The intern should be available for a minimum of 20 hours per week, ideally 3-5 days, starting in mid-January 202

• This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in human rights advocacy and research within a prominent international organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting various short and long-term desk research assignments focused on human rights law and policy, utilizing sources in Portuguese and/or Spanish. They will monitor and summarize developments related to LGBT rights in the LAC region, attend both virtual and in-person conferences and events to complement their research, and participate in meetings and interviews with civil society organizations and other stakeholders. The intern may also engage in remote interviews with victims or witnesses of human rights violations, under the close supervision of HRW staff. Additionally, they will attend internal strategy meetings to contribute to HRW's research and advocacy efforts and may collaborate with the LGBT Rights Program on new LGBT rights issues or national contexts as appropriate. Other related assignments may be assigned as they arise, providing a comprehensive learning experience.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be currently enrolled students in law, international relations, political science, or a related field. They must be eligible for a 'pflichtpraktikum', meaning the internship should be mandatory in relation to their studies. A strong background or interest in human rights, particularly LGBT rights, is highly preferred. Candidates should possess strong writing and research skills, and are encouraged to submit a writing sample related to human rights or a similar field. Full professional proficiency in English is required, along with advanced proficiency in Portuguese or Spanish. Additional language skills are considered desirable. Proficiency in computer skills, particularly the Microsoft Office Suite, is also required. Applicants should demonstrate attention to detail, a positive attitude, a proactive approach, and sound judgment.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be currently enrolled in a relevant academic program, such as law, international relations, political science, or a related field. The internship must qualify as a mandatory internship (pflichtpraktikum) in relation to their studies, ensuring that it aligns with their educational requirements and provides practical experience in the field of human rights.

Experience:
The internship is designed for students who are currently enrolled in their academic programs, thus prior professional experience is not strictly required. However, any relevant experience in human rights advocacy, research, or related fields will be considered an asset. The focus is on providing students with practical experience and exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, rather than requiring extensive prior experience.

Languages:
Full professional proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, advanced proficiency in either Portuguese or Spanish is essential, as the intern will be conducting research and monitoring LGBT rights developments in the LAC region. Knowledge of other languages is considered a plus and may enhance the candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last for three months, with the possibility of extension for an additional three months. Interns must be available for a minimum of 20 hours per week, ideally spread over 3-5 days. The position is based in Berlin, Germany, and candidates must possess valid work authorization in Germany for the duration of the internship. Interns will receive a gross monthly stipend of EUR 450 to help offset living expenses, which will be prorated based on the intern's schedule. Students may also have the opportunity to arrange academic credit for their internship, as it provides direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization and allows for close supervision by HRW staff.