Aryeh Neier Fellowship

Job Posting Organization:
The Aryeh Neier Fellowship is a collaborative initiative between the American Civil Liberties Union Foundation (ACLU) and Human Rights Watch (HRW). The ACLU has been a guardian of liberty in the United States for over 100 years, advocating for individual rights and liberties as guaranteed by the Constitution. With a membership of over one million, the ACLU operates in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C. Human Rights Watch, an independent non-governmental organization, has over 600 staff members across 50 countries, focusing on human rights monitoring, research, and advocacy. Both organizations are committed to promoting justice and human rights globally, and the fellowship was established in 2002 to honor Aryeh Neier's legacy in these fields.

Job Overview:
The Aryeh Neier Fellowship is designed for recent law graduates who are passionate about human rights and civil liberties. The fellow will engage in joint initiatives between the ACLU and HRW to enhance respect for human rights in the United States. The fellowship spans two years, with the fellow likely spending one year at each organization, primarily based in New York City, but with potential placements in other U.S. locations. The fellow will be involved in monitoring human rights issues, conducting field research, drafting reports, engaging in advocacy, and assisting in litigation strategies. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of human rights advocacy in the U.S. and offers a unique opportunity to work closely with two leading organizations in the field.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Monitor and analyze human rights issues and developments within the United States.
• Conduct field research to gather data and insights on human rights conditions.
• Draft comprehensive reports and other materials that detail human rights situations.
• Engage in advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness and addressing human rights violations.
• Assist in the development of litigation strategies to protect civil liberties.
• Collaborate with team members and external partners on various projects.
• Carry out additional tasks as required by the organizations to support their missions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be recent graduates with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from a U.S. law school or have a J.D. granted by June 202

• They should possess academic or work experience related to human rights and civil liberties. Candidates must also be eligible to take the bar exam before the fellowship begins and be able to practice law in the U.S. during the second year of the fellowship. Exceptional analytical skills, clear and persuasive writing and speaking abilities, self-motivation, and the capacity to work independently and collaboratively are essential. Proficiency in a language other than English is preferred, and a demonstrated commitment to human rights and justice is crucial.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a U.S. law school, with candidates expected to have graduated or to graduate by June 202

• This educational background is essential for understanding the legal frameworks surrounding human rights and civil liberties in the United States.

Experience:
Candidates should have academic or work experience that relates to the protection of human rights and civil liberties. This could include internships, volunteer work, or other relevant experiences that demonstrate a commitment to these issues and an understanding of the legal landscape.

Languages:
While proficiency in English is mandatory, candidates who can communicate in an additional language are preferred. This additional language skill can enhance the fellow's ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders in the human rights field.

Additional Notes:
The fellowship is a two-year commitment, starting in September 202

• The fellow will receive a salary of $70,000 in the first year, with an increase in the second year. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on October 12, 2026, through the online job portal. Candidates should prepare a CV/resume, a letter of interest, and a brief writing sample. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps, including submitting letters of recommendation and transcripts. The ACLU and HRW are equal opportunity employers and actively seek a diverse applicant pool.