Advocacy Division
New York
Summer 2008
Apply Immediately
Internship Description:
The Advocacy division of Human Rights Watch is seeking the assistance of a graduate student for the summer of 2008. The intern will work with Human Rights Watch’s Global Advocacy Director to conduct research and develop and implement projects aimed at strengthening the UN Human Rights Council. Possible efforts include: analysis of country statements and voting records; helping an NGO advocacy network develop strategies to address poor performance; and development of background papers regarding Human Rights Council for different audiences. The intern may also be engaged in HRW’s efforts relating to human rights protection work within the United Nations more generally, including addressing UN efforts to mainstream human rights and right-based approaches to development. The intern will also be asked to assist the advocacy department’s efforts through attending meetings and note-taking, as well as other administrative tasks.
This internship will require a full-time commitment. The intern must be based in New York. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Internships are generally unpaid, although work-study funds are available. Students are often able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships often offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by the HRW staff, interaction with other U.S. and international organizations and foreign and domestic government officials, and opportunities to attend lectures, trainings, and special events relating to human rights. Students should check with their individual academic institutions for requirements.
Qualifications:
Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated and reliable, with excellent research and writing skills. Applicants should have a strong interest in, and knowledge of, international human rights. Knowledge of the inner workings of the United Nations, especially its human rights mechanisms, is desirable, but not required. Fluency in written and oral English is required. Knowledge of one or more additional UN languages (Spanish, French, Chinese, Russian, or Arabic) is a plus. Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Office) and Internet research skills are required.
How to Apply:
Please apply immediately by sending a letter of interest, resume, names or letters of reference, and a brief, unedited writing sample (no calls or email inquiries, please) to advocacy.hire@hrw.org. Please use “Summer Advocacy Internship” as the subject of your email. Only complete applications will be reviewed. It is preferred that all materials be submitted via email. If emailing is not possible, send materials (please do not split a submission between email and regular post) to:
Human Rights Watch
Attn: Search Committee (Summer Advocacy Internship)
350 Fifth Avenue, 34th Floor
New York, NY 10118-3299
Fax: (212) 736-1300
Human Rights Watch is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate in its hiring practices and, in order to build the strongest possible workforce, actively seeks a diverse applicant pool.