Africa Division Intern (Uganda and Tanzania)

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that has been at the forefront of investigating and reporting on human rights abuses around the world. Established in 1978, HRW has grown to become a leading voice in the field of human rights, with a mission to protect and promote human rights globally. The organization operates in over 90 countries and employs a diverse team of more than 400 staff members, including researchers, advocates, and support personnel. HRW is known for its rigorous research methodologies, comprehensive reports, and impactful advocacy campaigns that aim to influence policy changes and hold governments accountable for human rights violations. The organization values diversity and inclusivity, actively seeking to create a workforce that reflects the communities it serves, and it encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply for positions within the organization.

Job Overview:
The Africa Division Intern position at Human Rights Watch is designed for individuals who are passionate about human rights and eager to gain practical experience in a professional setting. The intern will be based in the Nairobi office and will primarily focus on supporting ongoing projects and research related to human rights issues in Uganda and Tanzania. This internship is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world context, engage with critical human rights issues, and develop valuable skills in research, analysis, and advocacy. The intern is expected to work part-time, committing between 18 to 35 hours per week, starting in early October 2026 and continuing through April 202

• The schedule is flexible, allowing the intern to balance their academic commitments with their internship responsibilities. Throughout the internship, the intern will have the chance to attend lectures, trainings, and professional development workshops, enhancing their understanding of human rights work and expanding their professional network within the field.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks that contribute to the work of the Africa Division. Key responsibilities include conducting desk research on human rights issues in Uganda and Tanzania, which involves gathering and analyzing legal documents, reports, and news articles. The intern will also monitor Ugandan and Tanzanian news media, compiling relevant reports that highlight current events and human rights developments in these countries. Additionally, the intern may assist in translating documents into Swahili when necessary, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder the dissemination of important information. Participation in internal meetings is also a key responsibility, where the intern will take notes and minutes to document discussions and decisions made during these meetings. As the internship progresses, the intern may be assigned other projects that align with their interests and skills, providing a diverse range of experiences within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
To be eligible for the internship, applicants must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program or have recently graduated from an accredited institution. The ideal candidate should possess strong organizational skills, be self-motivated, and demonstrate reliability in completing tasks. Attention to detail is crucial, as the intern will be handling sensitive information and conducting research that requires accuracy. A genuine interest in human rights is essential, and relevant coursework in fields such as international relations, law, or social sciences is highly desirable. Proficiency in reading and writing in Swahili is a mandatory requirement, while proficiency in any indigenous Ugandan language is considered a beneficial asset. Additionally, candidates should have strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and experience with internet research, as these skills will be vital for completing assigned tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
The position requires applicants to be either current undergraduate or graduate students or recent graduates from an accredited program. This educational background ensures that candidates have a foundational understanding of the principles of human rights, international law, and related fields, which are critical for the research and advocacy work conducted by Human Rights Watch. The organization values candidates who have engaged in relevant coursework that enhances their understanding of human rights issues, legal frameworks, and social justice.

Experience:
While prior work experience is not explicitly required for this internship, any relevant experience in research, advocacy, or human rights work will be considered an asset. Candidates who have participated in internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to human rights or social justice will have a competitive advantage. The internship is designed to provide practical experience, so a willingness to learn and adapt is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficient reading and writing skills in Swahili are mandatory for this position, as the intern will be required to conduct research and translate documents. Additionally, proficiency in any indigenous Ugandan language is considered beneficial, as it may enhance the intern's ability to engage with local communities and understand cultural contexts. Strong English language skills are also important for effective communication within the organization and for producing written reports.

Additional Notes:
The internship is part-time, requiring a commitment of 18-35 hours per week, with flexible scheduling to accommodate the intern's academic obligations. The internship is set to begin in early October 2026 and will run through April 202

• Compensation for the internship is provided in the form of a gross monthly stipend of KES 30,000, which will be pro-rated based on the number of hours worked. This stipend is intended to help offset living expenses during the internship period. Interns may also have the opportunity to arrange for academic credit through their educational institutions, as the internship offers valuable exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization. Human Rights Watch emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.