Development & Outreach Department 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 worldwide. 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 numerous countries and employs a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. HRW is committed to promoting human rights and ensuring accountability for violations, and it actively seeks to create a diverse applicant pool for its positions.

Job Overview:
The Development and Outreach Department Intern position at Human Rights Watch in Tokyo is designed for undergraduate or graduate students who are interested in gaining practical experience in fundraising and event management within a prominent international human rights organization. The internship is part-time and will run from October 2026 through the end of March 202

• Interns will have the opportunity to engage in various projects that support the department's fundraising efforts, including prospect research, graphic design, database management, and logistics for donor events. Additionally, interns will participate in professional development activities such as lectures, trainings, and workshops related to human rights, allowing them to network with other interns, volunteers, and HRW staff. This role is an excellent opportunity for students to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting while contributing to meaningful human rights initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Development and Outreach Department Intern include:

• Supporting fundraising efforts by conducting prospect research, assisting with graphic design tasks, managing databases, and coordinating logistics for the annual charity dinner and other donor events.
• Assisting with communication efforts by crafting and translating marketing materials, as well as helping to maintain and update web pages.
• Attending in-house trainings, briefings, and events organized by the Development and Outreach Department to gain insights into the workings of HRW.
• Engaging in additional projects that align with the intern's interests and skills as they arise, ensuring a dynamic and enriching internship experience.

Required Qualifications:
To be eligible for this internship, applicants must be current undergraduate or graduate students for the duration of the internship term. Advanced proficiency in both Japanese and English, in terms of writing and speaking, is highly desirable. Candidates with relevant coursework in human rights or related fields are encouraged to apply. Strong organizational skills, a proactive approach to projects, and reliability with a keen attention to detail are essential. Proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Office, Excel, and internet research skills are required. Additionally, graphic design and video editing skills are highly valued, and a demonstrated strong interest in human rights is a significant advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires applicants to be enrolled as undergraduate or graduate students during the internship period. Relevant coursework in human rights or related fields is preferred, as it provides a foundational understanding of the issues that HRW addresses. This educational background will enhance the intern's ability to contribute effectively to the department's projects and initiatives.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, any relevant experience in fundraising, event management, or human rights advocacy will be beneficial. Interns should demonstrate a strong motivation to learn and engage with the work of Human Rights Watch, as well as a commitment to the principles of human rights and social justice.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Japanese and English is mandatory for this position, as the intern will be required to communicate effectively in both languages. This includes crafting and translating materials, as well as participating in discussions and meetings. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The internship is part-time, with a focus on providing students with practical experience in a professional setting. Interns will receive a gross stipend of 800 yen per day for lunch expenses and will be reimbursed for transportation costs up to 2000 yen per day while in the office. It is important for applicants to possess valid work authorization in Japan for the duration of the internship. Students may also have the opportunity to arrange academic credit for their internship, depending on their individual academic institution's requirements. HRW emphasizes diversity and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply, ensuring an inclusive and equitable recruitment process.