Coordinator, Africa

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that was established to investigate and report on human rights abuses around the world. Known for its rigorous research and advocacy efforts, HRW has been influential in shaping policies and practices related to human rights by various governments and international institutions. The organization operates globally, with a presence in multiple countries, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to promoting human rights and justice. HRW's mission is to protect human rights and hold those responsible for abuses accountable, ensuring that the voices of the oppressed are heard and that justice is served.

Job Overview:
The Coordinator for the Africa Division at Human Rights Watch will play a crucial role in supporting the organization's efforts to address human rights issues across the African continent. This position involves providing administrative, project management, and programmatic support to staff engaged in various human rights initiatives. The Coordinator will facilitate the production of research and advocacy materials, ensuring that the Africa Division's work is effectively communicated and disseminated. The role requires collaboration with divisional staff located in different regions, necessitating strong organizational and communication skills. The successful candidate will be expected to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and contribute to the overall mission of advancing human rights in Africa through research, advocacy, and media engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Coordinator will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Providing daily administrative support to the Africa Division staff, which includes tracking project timelines, scheduling meetings, and maintaining filing systems.
• Organizing travel and logistics for regional team meetings, managing divisional expenses, and responding to information requests.
• Preparing, proofreading, and coordinating various materials such as news releases, reports, and social media content.
• Offering translation" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">French translation services for documents and supporting the vetting process for larger publications.
• Assisting in the internal review process for Africa Division publications.
• Conducting media roundups and desk research as needed.
• Drafting official documents, including letters to officials and submissions to the United Nations.
• Supporting the Africa Advisory Committee and planning meetings and events.
• Coordinating events such as news conferences and retreats. 1
• Maintaining communication with HRW offices and external partners, and assisting with the recruitment and mentoring of interns. 1
• Performing additional tasks as required to support the Africa Division's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in fields such as human rights, international relations, or social sciences. A minimum of two years of relevant work experience is required, preferably in an administrative or support role within an international human rights organization. Strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities in both English and French, and a solid understanding of African regional and international human rights issues are essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work under pressure, manage multiple tasks, and make sound decisions independently while also being a collaborative team member.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree in human rights, international relations, social science, or a related field is required for this position. Equivalent work experience may also be considered in lieu of formal education. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to human rights advocacy, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, or social justice.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience, particularly in administrative roles or support functions within an international human rights context. Experience working with diverse teams and managing projects is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the operational dynamics of human rights organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position, with excellent oral and written communication skills required in both languages. Experience in translating documents from English to French is considered a valuable asset. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the African context may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in either the New York or Washington D.C. office, with the expectation that the successful candidate will work from the office 2-3 days per week or as needed. The salary range for this role is USD 64,843-69,170, and HRW offers comprehensive employer-paid benefits, including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as a retirement savings plan and twenty days of vacation per year. Candidates must have valid work authorization for the United States, as HRW is unable to sponsor work authorization for this role. The application deadline is July 10, 2026, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.