Communications Intern at Human Rights Watch

Application Deadline: 5 January 2021

The Media Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking an intern with proficiency in English and Kiswahili language in the Nairobi office. Ideally, the intern should be available four days a week for three months beginning in February 2021(dates and times are flexible).  

Due to COVID-19, many of our offices remain closed or are open at a limited capacity. HRW prioritizes the safety of our interns. In locations that have eased office restrictions and are open at a limited capacity, interns are not expected to report to the office and remote arrangements will remain an option for the foreseeable future. However, interns may have the option of reporting to an office on a voluntary basis in accordance with HRW’s COVID-19 policies.

Responsibilities: The intern will contribute to projects on a range of topics and will learn how to conduct media monitoring for African countries, pitch HRW press releases and reports, liaise with press, and organize different meetings and events.

Human Rights Watch internships often offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by HRW staff, and interaction with other international organizations.

Interns will also have opportunities to attend virtual lectures, trainings, professional development workshops, and/or special events relating to human rights, as well as network with other HRW interns, volunteers, and employees.

Qualifications:  Applicants enrolled in a university or other academic institutions for the duration of the internship term are highly preferred but not mandatory. In some circumstances, applicants can be recent graduates of an academic program who are undergoing an internship for further training. Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated, and reliable with a strong interest in international human rights, news media, and social media. Excellent verbal and written command of English and Kiswahili are required. Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Office, internet applications) are required.

Applicants who are offered an internship must possess valid work authorization in Kenya for the duration of the internship.

Compensation: Interns will receive a gross monthly stipend of KES 30,000 per month, (pro-rated based on internship hours), to help offset living expenses in accordance with HRW policy.  Students are often able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships may offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by the HRW staff, and interaction with other international organizations and foreign and domestic government officials. Students should check with their individual academic institutions for requirements.