The Africa Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) Invites the University Students Around Johannesburg Office to Apply for the Intern Opportunity beginning April 2026 through August 2026.
About Human Rights Watch
Human Rights Watch investigates and reports on abuses happening in all corners of the world. We are roughly 500 people of 70-plus nationalities who are country experts, lawyers, journalists, and others who work to protect the most at risk, from vulnerable minorities and civilians in wartime, to refugees and children in need. We direct our advocacy towards governments, armed groups and businesses, pushing them to change or enforce their laws, policies and practices. To ensure our independence, we refuse government funding and carefully review all donations to ensure that they are consistent with our policies, mission, and values. We partner with organizations large and small across the globe to protect embattled activists and to help hold abusers to account and bring justice to victims.
Internship Details at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Africa Division Intern (South Africa and Eswatini) |
| Organisation | Human Rights Watch |
| Duration | April 2026 – August 2026 |
| Working Hours | 18–20 hours per week (Part-time) |
| Location | Johannesburg Office |
| Monthly Stipend | R6,000 (Pro-rated based on hours worked) |
| Closing Date | 20 March 2026 |
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting desk research including small research assignments;
- Monitoring media and compiling reports on news relating to South Africa and Eswatini;
- Conducting data analysis and identifying and understanding key issues;
- Drafting documents regarding issues in South Africa and Eswatini;
- Attending and supporting in the planning of substantive meetings; and
- Other projects may be assigned as they arise and match the intern’s interests and abilities.
Students may also have opportunities to attend lectures, trainings, professional development workshops, and/or special events relating to human rights, as well as network with other HRW interns, volunteers, and employees. As an HRW intern, students will take skills acquired in school and apply them in a professional setting.
Minimum Requirements
- Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program for the durations of the internship term.
- Proficient reading and writing abilities in English are essential.
- A strong interest in Human Rights, specifically concerning South African region, is essential.
- Relevant coursework is highly desirable.
- Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated, and reliable, with strong attention to detail.
- Computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office, Excel, internet applications) and experience completing internet research are essential.
Applicants who are offered an internship must possess valid work authorization in South Africa for the duration of the internship.
Compensation: Internship compensation varies by jurisdiction based on local laws and HRW policy. Interns in South Africa will receive a gross monthly stipend of R 6,000 per month, which will be pro-rated based on internship hours, to help offset living expenses in accordance with HRW policy. Students may also be able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships may offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by HRW staff, and interaction with other international organizations and foreign and domestic government officials. Students should check with their individual academic institutions for requirements.
Compensation:
Internship compensation varies by jurisdiction based on local laws and HRW policy. Interns in South Africa will receive a gross monthly stipend of R 6,000 per month, which will be pro-rated based on internship hours, to help offset living expenses in accordance with HRW policy. Students may also be able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships may offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by HRW staff, and interaction with other international organizations and foreign and domestic government officials. Students should check with their individual academic institutions for requirements.
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Language and Skills
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Proficient reading and writing abilities in English are essential.
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A strong interest in Human Rights, specifically concerning Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia, is essential.
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Relevant coursework is highly desirable.
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Strong organizational skills, self-motivation, reliability, and attention to detail are required.
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Computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office, Excel, internet applications) and experience completing internet research are essential.
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Monthly Stipend
Interns in South Africa will receive a gross monthly stipend of R6,000, which is pro-rated according to hours worked. The stipend is intended to help offset living expenses in line with HRW policy.
List of Required Documents
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A CV/resume
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A letter of interest/cover letter
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A brief writing sample
Accepted file types include: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf.
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Application Closing Date
Application Deadline: 20 March 2026
How to ApplyÂ
Please apply immediately by visiting our online job portal at: https://careers.hrw.org and attaching a CV/resume, letter of interest/cover letter, and a brief writing sample. No calls or email inquiries, please. Only complete applications will be reviewed. Due to the large number of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted further.
Alternatively, you may apply directly via the official job listing:
https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/humanrightswatch/jobs/8442652002
If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application submission, please email internships@hrw.org. Due to the large response, application submissions via email will not be accepted and inquiries regarding the status of applications will go unanswered.
 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Human Rights Watch Africa Division Internship?
It is a paid internship programme that allows interns to support human rights research and advocacy focused on African countries.
Is the internship paid?
Yes, interns receive a monthly stipend of R6,000, pro-rated based on working hours.
Where is the internship based?
The internship is based at the Johannesburg Office.
Is the internship full-time or part-time?
It is a part-time internship requiring 18–20 hours per week.
How long does the internship last?
The internship runs from April 2026 to August 2026.
Who can apply for the internship?
Students or recent graduates in law, social sciences, international relations, journalism, or related fields can apply.
Do I need prior work experience?
Prior experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
Are international applicants allowed?
Yes, provided they have the legal right to work or intern in South Africa.
What skills are required?
Strong research, writing, communication, and organisational skills are essential.
Is the internship competitive?
Yes, Human Rights Watch internships are highly competitive.
Can the internship be done remotely?
The internship is primarily office-based in Johannesburg.
What type of work will interns do?
Interns assist with research, advocacy, reporting, and administrative support.
Does the internship count as work experience?
Yes, it provides valuable international human rights work experience.
Will interns receive mentorship?
Yes, interns work closely with experienced researchers and advocates.
Is this internship suitable for law students?
Yes, especially those interested in human rights law and policy.
Are there age restrictions?
No specific age limit is stated.
Does Human Rights Watch offer certificates?
Interns typically receive confirmation of participation upon completion.
Can this internship lead to future opportunities?
While not guaranteed, it strengthens prospects in the human rights sector.
What languages are required?
English is required; additional languages are an advantage.
When is the closing date?
The closing date for applications is 20 March 2026.
