Africa Division Intern (Great Lakes region)

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 reporting on human rights issues worldwide. HRW is known for its innovative advocacy campaigns and its success in influencing the policies and practices of governments and international institutions regarding human rights. The organization operates globally, with a presence in various countries, and is committed to promoting human rights and holding violators accountable. HRW values diversity and actively seeks to create an inclusive environment for its employees, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Job Overview:
The Africa Division of Human Rights Watch is seeking an undergraduate student intern to join its Nairobi office, focusing on projects related to the Great Lakes region, which includes Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. The internship is designed for students who are passionate about human rights and wish to gain practical experience in a professional setting. The intern will be expected to work part-time, committing a minimum of 20 hours per week, starting in November 2026 and continuing through January 202

• The role will involve a variety of tasks that will help the intern develop skills relevant to human rights advocacy and research, while also providing opportunities for professional development through lectures, workshops, and networking with HRW staff and other interns.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will primarily include monitoring the press and compiling reports on news from the Great Lakes region, supporting research assignments, managing data, and conducting analysis. The intern will also be tasked with drafting documents related to human rights issues in the region, attending and assisting in the planning of both internal and external meetings, and taking on additional projects that align with their interests and abilities. This role is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the workings of an international human rights organization and to enhance the intern's research and analytical skills.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be undergraduate students for the duration of the internship. They should demonstrate strong organizational skills, self-motivation, and reliability, with a keen attention to detail. A genuine interest in human rights and a solid understanding of the human rights situation in the Great Lakes region are essential. Relevant coursework in human rights, international relations, or related fields is highly desirable. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required, while proficiency in Kiswahili and French is preferred. Additionally, candidates should possess strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, and internet research capabilities.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be currently enrolled as undergraduate students. This educational background is crucial as it ensures that the intern has a foundational understanding of the principles of human rights and the socio-political context of the Great Lakes region, which will be beneficial in carrying out the responsibilities of the internship effectively.

Experience:
While prior experience in human rights advocacy or research is not mandatory, any relevant experience, such as internships, volunteer work, or coursework related to human rights, international relations, or social justice, will be considered an asset. The internship is primarily aimed at students who are looking to gain practical experience and apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Proficiency in Kiswahili and French is considered advantageous, as it will enhance the intern's ability to engage with a broader range of materials and stakeholders in the Great Lakes region.

Additional Notes:
The internship is part-time, requiring a minimum commitment of 20 hours per week, and will run from November 2026 to January 202

• Interns will receive a gross monthly stipend of KES 30,000, which will be pro-rated based on the number of hours worked. This compensation is designed to help offset living expenses in accordance with HRW policy. Interns may also have the opportunity to earn academic credit for their work, depending on their individual academic institutions' requirements. HRW emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, ensuring an inclusive and equitable recruitment process.