Coordinator, Legal and Policy

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that has established itself as a leader in the field since its inception. Known for its rigorous investigations and incisive reporting, HRW has been instrumental in advocating for human rights and influencing policy changes across the globe. The organization operates in approximately 100 countries and employs a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. HRW is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce, ensuring that its team comprises individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds, educational experiences, and personal identities. The organization actively seeks to create an environment where all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to its mission of protecting human rights.

Job Overview:
The Coordinator position within the Legal and Policy Office at Human Rights Watch is a vital role that supports the organization's commitment to ensuring that its publications and advocacy efforts align with international human rights and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law. This non-attorney position is responsible for facilitating the legal review process for HRW's programmatic research and reporting. The Coordinator will work closely with the Legal and Policy Director and Senior Legal Advisors, managing the flow of documents such as reports, news releases, and op-eds from programmatic staff to the appropriate legal reviewers. The role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to communicate effectively across various departments, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The Coordinator will also have the option to work remotely while being based in New York, allowing for flexibility in how they fulfill their responsibilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Coordinator will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: coordinating the inflow of reports, news releases, op-eds, videos, and other documents from programmatic staff to the appropriate legal reviewer; maintaining up-to-date information on upcoming reports through effective communication with the organization’s country and thematic divisions; serving as a liaison between staff across the organization and legal reviewers, ensuring that all staff are informed about the legal review process; training incoming support staff on the internal review process for programmatic research and reporting; acting as the point-person for communications with the HRW policy committee; retrieving and responding to requests for information; scheduling meetings, making travel arrangements, and preparing for meetings, including taking minutes; processing and assisting in tracking departmental finances; and carrying out other duties as required by the Legal and Policy Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. A minimum of two years of relevant experience, preferably in an office environment, is required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to multi-task effectively, showcasing strong planning and organizational skills while working under pressure. Interpersonal skills are essential for collaborating within HRW and with external partners. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, while proficiency in additional languages is considered a plus. Candidates should exhibit strong initiative, follow-through, and the capacity to think creatively and strategically. The ability to make sound decisions consistent with the functions of the role is also required. Experience working for an international human rights organization in a support function is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is required for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding the complexities of legal and policy issues related to human rights advocacy.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience, ideally in an office environment. This experience should include exposure to administrative tasks and support functions, particularly within organizations focused on human rights or similar fields. Candidates with experience in legal or policy review processes will be particularly well-suited for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role requires excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in additional languages is considered advantageous and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to HRW's global mission.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in New York, with the option for remote work. The salary range for this role is USD 64,201 – 68,528, and HRW offers comprehensive compensation and benefits. Candidates must have US work authorization, as HRW cannot provide work authorization sponsorship for this role. The application deadline is June 12, 2025, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply immediately by submitting a cover letter, resume, and brief writing sample through HRW's online job portal. HRW emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.