The Human Rights Watch Africa Division Intern 2026 opportunity is open to current undergraduate and graduate students and recent graduates interested in human rights research, Uganda and Tanzania affairs, and international advocacy. The Nairobi-based internship offers practical experience, professional development and a monthly stipend of KES 30,000, pro-rated according to internship hours.
Background & Job Description
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is offering an Africa Division Intern opportunity based in its Nairobi office, with the internship primarily supporting ongoing research and projects concerning Uganda and Tanzania. The organisation is seeking students and recent graduates who have a strong interest in human rights and can contribute to research, monitoring, documentation and administrative activities.
According to the vacancy, the internship is expected to begin in early October 2026 and run through January 2027, with dates and working arrangements described as flexible. The preferred commitment is part-time, between 18 and 35 hours per week.
This opportunity could be particularly relevant to students pursuing subjects such as law, international relations, political science, human rights, African studies, development studies, journalism, social sciences or related disciplines.
Beyond day-to-day responsibilities, interns may have opportunities to participate in lectures, professional development workshops, training sessions and special events connected with human rights. The programme also provides exposure to HRW staff, other interns and professionals working within international organisations and government institutions.
Tasks
The selected intern will support the Africa Division’s work, particularly projects connected with Uganda and Tanzania.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting desk research on human rights issues affecting Uganda and Tanzania.
- Carrying out legal and background research.
- Monitoring Ugandan and Tanzanian news media.
- Compiling relevant media reports and information.
- Assisting with the translation of documents in Swahili when required.
- Supporting internal meetings, including taking notes and minutes.
- Contributing to additional projects that correspond with the intern’s interests and abilities.
The role provides an opportunity to apply academic knowledge in a professional environment while developing practical research, writing, communication and organisational skills.
For students interested in international human rights careers, the combination of research experience and exposure to an established human rights organisation can provide useful professional experience.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
Applicants must be currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students or recent graduates from an accredited undergraduate or graduate programme for the duration of the internship term.
A specific degree subject is not stated as an absolute requirement in the vacancy. However, relevant coursework is described as highly desirable, while a strong interest in human rights is essential.
Relevant academic backgrounds may include:
- Human rights
- Law
- International relations
- Political science
- Development studies
- African studies
- Journalism
- Social sciences
- International development
- Related disciplines
Strong computer skills are also required, including familiarity with Microsoft Office, Excel and internet applications, together with experience conducting online research.
Experience
Applicants should be organised, self-motivated and reliable, with strong attention to detail. A demonstrated interest in human rights is an important requirement for the position.
Swahili proficiency is specifically required, including proficient reading and writing skills. Proficiency in reading and writing in an indigenous Ugandan language is considered beneficial.
Applicants should also understand that the internship has an important location-specific requirement. Anyone offered the position must possess valid work authorisation in Kenya for the entire internship period.
Additional Information
The Human Rights Watch Africa Division Intern position offers a gross monthly stipend of KES 30,000 for interns in Kenya. The stipend is pro-rated according to the number of internship hours and is intended to help offset living expenses in accordance with HRW policy.
Students may also be able to arrange academic credit through their educational institutions. Candidates interested in receiving academic credit should confirm their institution’s specific requirements before accepting an internship arrangement.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official Human Rights Watch careers platform. Applicants are required to submit:
- A CV or resume
- A letter of interest or cover letter
- A brief writing sample that has not been edited by another person
The requested documents should preferably be submitted as PDF files.
The application form also asks candidates to provide information regarding their student status, legal authorisation to intern in the relevant country, English proficiency, Swahili proficiency and proficiency in an indigenous Ugandan language. Applicants are also asked to provide contact information for three references, including each reference’s name, employer, relationship to the applicant, phone number and email address.
The application deadline is 27 August 2026. Candidates are encouraged to apply through the online HRW careers portal, and only complete applications will be reviewed. Due to the expected volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will receive further communication.
Applicants experiencing technical difficulties with submitting an application can contact the internships team using the email address provided in the vacancy. However, applications themselves will not be accepted by email.
Human Rights Watch states that it is committed to diversity and equal opportunity and encourages candidates from different backgrounds to apply.
For candidates seeking human rights internships in Africa, this Nairobi-based opportunity offers practical exposure to research concerning Uganda and Tanzania while developing skills that can be valuable for future careers in human rights, international development, advocacy, research and policy.
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