LGBT Rights Program (ECA) 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 100 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. The organization aims to change human rights-related policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions through its rigorous research and advocacy efforts. HRW is committed to diversity and inclusion, actively seeking a diverse applicant pool and encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Job Overview:
The LGBT Rights Program (ECA) Intern position at Human Rights Watch in Berlin is designed for an enrolled student who is interested in supporting the organization's work in the Europe and Central Asia (ECA) region. The intern will engage in monitoring LGBT rights, conducting targeted research on relevant laws and policies, and preparing written reports. The internship is expected to begin on 1 September 2026 and will last for three months, with the possibility of extension for an additional three months. The intern is required to be available for 3-5 days a week, contributing a minimum of 20 hours weekly. This role provides an opportunity to apply academic knowledge in a professional setting while gaining valuable experience in human rights advocacy.

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 in the ECA region. They will monitor and summarize developments in LGBT rights, attend virtual and in-person conferences, and engage with civil society organizations to advance their research. The intern will participate in remote interviews with victims or witnesses of human rights violations under the supervision of HRW staff. Additionally, they will attend internal strategy meetings and may collaborate with the LGBT Rights Program on new issues or contexts. Other related assignments will be assigned as they arise, and students may have opportunities to attend internal meetings, lectures, and professional development workshops.

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. Strong writing and research skills are essential, and candidates are encouraged to submit a writing sample related to human rights. Full professional proficiency in English is required, and advanced proficiency in Turkish, Russian, Ukrainian, Georgian, or Armenian is highly desirable. Additional language skills are also considered beneficial. Proficiency in computer skills, particularly Microsoft Office Suite, is required, along with attention to detail, a positive attitude, a proactive approach, and good 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 the experience is integral to their educational development.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, a strong interest in human rights and LGBT rights is highly preferred. The intern should possess research and writing skills that can be applied in a professional context. The internship is designed for students, so the expectation is that candidates will be gaining practical experience rather than requiring extensive prior work experience.

Languages:
Full professional proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, advanced proficiency in Turkish, Russian, Ukrainian, Georgian, or Armenian is highly desirable. Other language skills are considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and research effectively.

Additional Notes:
The internship is part-time, requiring a minimum commitment of 20 hours per week over a flexible schedule. The internship is unpaid, but interns based in Germany will receive a gross monthly stipend of EUR 556 to help offset living expenses, prorated based on their 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 cover letter, and a writing sample through HRW's 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.