Human Rights Watch is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization known for conducting investigations, documenting abuses and advocating for changes in policies and practices affecting human rights. The Africa Division works on human rights issues across the continent and engages in research, reporting and advocacy on a wide range of issues.
About the Internship
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is inviting applications for an Africa Division Intern based in Nairobi, Kenya. The internship will support HRW's ongoing human rights research and advocacy work relating primarily to Uganda and Tanzania. The opportunity is suitable for current undergraduate or graduate students and recent graduates who have a strong interest in human rights, research, international affairs, law, journalism, political science, development studies or related fields.
Why You Should Apply
Benefit
Description
International Organization
Work with leading human rights NGO
Practical Experience
Human rights research and advocacy
Professional Development
Skills in research, analysis, documentation
Networking
Connect with HRW staff and professionals
Stipend
KES 30,000 gross per month
Academic Credit
May be arranged through your university
Career Preparation
Explore human rights careers
Key Responsibilities
Responsibility
Description
Desk Research
Conduct legal and background research on human rights issues
Information Management
Locate, review, organize relevant information
Media Monitoring
Monitor Ugandan and Tanzanian news media
Translation
Assist with Swahili document translation
Meeting Support
Attend internal meetings, take notes, prepare minutes
Administrative Support
Provide additional support as needed
Learning and Professional Development
Opportunity
Description
Practical Exposure
Work in international human rights organization
Lectures/Trainings
Attend HRW learning sessions
Professional Workshops
Skill development opportunities
Networking
Interact with HRW staff, interns, volunteers
Academic Credit
Arrange through your university
Skill Development
Research, analysis, writing, documentation, communication
Eligibility Requirements
Criteria
Requirements
Student Status
Currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate student OR recent graduate
Interest
Strong interest in human rights
Organizational Skills
Strong organizational abilities
Motivation
Self-motivated, reliable, attentive to detail
Language
Proficiency in reading and writing in Swahili
Additional Language
Knowledge of indigenous Ugandan language (beneficial)
Computer Skills
Microsoft Office, Excel, internet-based applications
Research Skills
Experience conducting online research
Work Authorization Requirement
Requirement
Details
Valid Authorization
Must have valid authorization to work or intern in Kenya
Duration
For the entire internship period
Compensation
Detail
Information
Monthly Stipend
KES 30,000 gross
Pro-Rated
Based on number of internship hours
Academic Credit
May be available through educational institutions
Application Requirements
Document
Description
CV/Resume
Current curriculum vitae
Cover Letter
Letter of interest
Writing Sample
Brief sample (not edited by another person)
References
Three professional or academic references with contact information
Undergraduate/graduate students or recent graduates.
Q8. What documents are required?
CV, cover letter, writing sample, 3 references.
Q9. What is the deadline?
27 August 2026.
Q10. Is work authorization required?
Yes, valid Kenyan authorization required.
CareerFlora Expert Insight
The HRW Africa Division Internship offers a valuable opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain practical experience in international human rights research. Based in Nairobi and focusing on Uganda and Tanzania, the internship provides exposure to human rights monitoring, documentation, and advocacy within a leading international organization.
The Swahili language requirement and preference for indigenous Ugandan language knowledge make this role particularly suitable for candidates with East African language skills. The competitive stipend and potential for academic credit add to the internship's value.
Best Opportunity For
Category
Suitable
Undergraduate Students
Yes
Graduate Students
Yes
Recent Graduates
Yes
Human Rights Enthusiasts
Yes
International Affairs Students
Yes
Law Students
Yes
Journalism Students
Yes
Political Science Students
Yes
Development Studies Students
Yes
Swahili Speakers
Yes
Competition Level
Category
Level
Overall Competition
Very High
Selection Difficulty
Highly Competitive
Application Complexity
Medium
CareerFlora Recommendation
Area
Details
Internship Value
Excellent
Career Growth
Very High
Application Difficulty
Medium
Apply Early
Strongly Recommended
Final Call-to-Action
Apply for HRW Africa Division Internship 2026-2027 before 27 August 2026.
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