Europe & Central Asia Division Intern

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that was established in 197

• The organization is known for its in-depth investigations, incisive and timely reporting, and innovative advocacy campaigns. HRW operates in over 90 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to promoting human rights and holding governments accountable for their actions. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, actively seeking candidates from various backgrounds and experiences.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Europe and Central Asia Division of Human Rights Watch is designed for students who are eager to gain practical experience in the field of human rights. The intern will be based in the Berlin office and is expected to work full-time, approximately 35 hours per week, for a duration of six months starting in early February 202

• The role will involve engaging with a wide range of human rights issues across Europe and Central Asia, including monitoring developments in EU member states, Eastern Europe, the Western Balkans, the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and Turkey. Interns will work closely with HRW researchers and advocacy staff, providing them with a unique opportunity to understand the inner workings of a prominent human rights organization while contributing to meaningful projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting background desk research, drafting research and advocacy materials, and monitoring political, legal, and human rights developments across the region. Specific duties include assisting in the preparation of briefings, supporting outreach efforts to government officials, diplomats, journalists, and civil society partners, and potentially participating in meetings and attending external events related to ongoing projects. The intern may also be assigned other related tasks that align with their interests and the needs of the division. Additionally, interns will have opportunities to attend lectures, trainings, and professional development workshops, enhancing their understanding of human rights issues and networking with other interns and HRW staff.

Required Qualifications:
Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a university or academic institution for the duration of the internship and must qualify for a pflichtpraktikum, meaning the internship should be mandatory in relation to their studies. Candidates should possess a strong understanding of EU institutions and their policies, with a focus on relevant coursework in areas such as human rights, migration, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, and the political landscape of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Strong writing and research skills are essential, and previous experience in EU policy or human rights work is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate organizational skills, self-motivation, and reliability, along with a genuine interest in human rights advocacy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a university or other academic institution, as the internship is intended to fulfill a mandatory internship requirement (pflichtpraktikum) related to their studies. Relevant coursework in human rights, international law, EU policies, and regional studies focusing on Eastern Europe and Central Asia is highly encouraged and will strengthen the application.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience, particularly in writing and research related to human rights or EU policy. While formal work experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships, volunteer work, or academic projects that demonstrate a commitment to human rights and an understanding of the political landscape in the region will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is essential for this position. Additionally, proficiency in another European language, especially German, is considered desirable and will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of materials and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The internship is a full-time position, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week for six months. Interns will receive a gross monthly stipend of EUR 556 to help cover living expenses, which will be prorated based on the intern's schedule. Candidates must possess valid work authorization in Germany for the duration of the internship. The application process requires candidates to submit a CV/resume, a letter of interest, and a brief writing sample through the HRW online job portal. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and inquiries regarding application status will not be answered.