Development & Outreach Department Intern

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that is renowned for its thorough investigations, incisive and timely reporting, and innovative advocacy campaigns. Established to promote and protect human rights globally, HRW has a significant presence in various countries and operates with a diverse team of professionals dedicated to effecting change in human rights policies and practices. The organization is committed to ensuring that its workforce reflects the diversity of the communities it serves, actively seeking candidates from various backgrounds to enrich its mission and effectiveness.

Job Overview:
The Development and Outreach Department of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is currently seeking a student intern for its Paris office. This internship is designed for students who are eager to gain practical experience in a professional setting within a reputable international non-profit organization. The intern will ideally be available full-time, working 35 hours per week for a duration of 6 months, starting from September 2026 through February 2027, with some flexibility in dates. The internship will focus on various aspects of development and outreach, including fundraising, event planning, and donor engagement. Interns will work closely with the Development team, gaining insights into the organization's priorities and enhancing their skills in event management and donor relations. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects while learning about the operational dynamics of a leading human rights organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the Development team, including but not limited to: assisting in the preparation and organization of fundraising events such as the annual fundraising dinner and donor meetings; conducting research on potential donors to identify new funding opportunities; maintaining and updating documents and records in the database; assisting in drafting correspondence and other materials related to donor outreach; supporting the creation of promotional materials and mailings; collaborating with the team on the management of the fundraising database; and translating documents between English and French. The intern will also have the chance to participate in planning meetings and internal training sessions, enhancing their understanding of the organization's work and the broader human rights landscape.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should be Master’s level students in fields such as Management, Event Management, Communication, or related disciplines. A perfect command of French, both oral and written, is essential, along with advanced proficiency in English. Previous experience in a non-profit organization or international setting is highly valued. The ideal candidate will be well-organized, motivated, reliable, and possess a strong interest in human rights issues. Applicants must also have valid work authorization in France for the duration of the internship.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a Master’s degree program, preferably in Management, Event Management, Communication, or a closely related field. This educational background will provide the necessary theoretical foundation and skills applicable to the tasks and responsibilities of the internship.

Experience:
The internship is suitable for students who have some prior experience, particularly in non-profit organizations or related fields. While specific prior experience is not mandatory, any involvement in volunteer work, internships, or academic projects related to human rights or development will be considered an asset. The organization values candidates who demonstrate a proactive approach and a genuine interest in the mission of Human Rights Watch.

Languages:
Fluency in French (both spoken and written) is mandatory, as the intern will be required to communicate effectively with local stakeholders and assist in translation tasks. Advanced English skills are also required, as many documents and communications will be in English. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered a plus but is not essential for this position.

Additional Notes:
The internship is a full-time position, requiring a commitment of 35 hours per week for a period of 6 months. Compensation for the internship is set at EUR 5.50 per hour, in accordance with local laws and HRW policies. Additionally, HRW will reimburse 50% of the intern's transportation costs. Interns may also have the opportunity to earn academic credit for their work, as the internship provides direct exposure to the operations of an international human rights organization. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible through the HRW online recruitment portal, ensuring that all application materials are submitted in French. The organization emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.