Internship Description: The Americas Division of Human Rights Watch ("HRW") is seeking an undergraduate level intern for the fall of 2012. The intern will assist staff by conducting research, responding to inquiries, and monitoring current events in Latin America. The internship will primarily entail performing research and writing assignments. It may also entail database and file management, mission support, and some translation assignments. The intern will be based in Washington, DC or New York.
Internships are generally unpaid, although work-study credit is 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: The intern must be an enrolled student during the internship term. Students in relevant undergraduate programs and individuals with journalism experience in Latin America are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated, and reliable. Applicants must have a commitment to public service, and a strong interest in international human rights and current affairs in Latin America.
Fluency or high level of proficiency in Spanish is required. Fluency or high level of proficiency in Portuguese is preferred. Familiarity with the region and relevant coursework, and specifically experience with and/or knowledge of Colombia, Mexico, or Cuba, is highly desirable. Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Office, Internet applications) are required.
Applicants who are offered an internship, but who are not US permanent residents, US citizens, or in possession of a valid student visa, must apply for a J-1 visa through a sponsoring organization. This process can take several weeks and applicants will have to incur their own costs.
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.
Human Rights Watch is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization known for its in-depth investigations, its incisive and timely reporting, its innovative and high-profile advocacy campaigns, and its success in changing the human rights-related policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions.
Washington, DC or New York
Undergraduate
