The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) is inviting applications for two junior Research Fellow positions within its Tyranny Tracker initiative. These opportunities are tailored for emerging professionals with a strong interest in political freedom, governance, and human rights across Africa or Asia. The roles offer an entry point into international research and advocacy, while contributing to a high-impact global project. Overview of the Tyranny Tracker Initiative The Tyranny Tracker is a flagship HRF programme designed to monitor, document, and analyse political freedom in 90 countries and territories. By assessing governance systems and political landscapes, the initiative classifies countries on a spectrum ranging from democratic to hybrid authoritarian to fully authoritarian. These classifications guide HRF’s strategic advocacy, campaigns, and partnerships aimed at strengthening human rights and civil liberties worldwide. Research Fellows play a key role in this process by conducting rigorous political and human rights research, analysing developments within assigned countries, and generating clear, well-supported findings. Fellows collaborate closely with regional experts to support evidence-based assessments that influence HRF’s global discourse on authoritarianism and freedom. Fellowship Structure and Duration The fellowship spans six months, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and organisational needs. HRF offers a flexible, fully remote structure that accommodates both part-time and full-time commitments. The programme is open to applicants based anywhere in the world, making it suitable for early-career researchers seeking international exposure and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful human rights work without geographic restrictions. Responsibilities of the Research Fellows The Research Fellows will contribute directly to HRF’s global analytical work. Key responsibilities include: Conducting in-depth research on political, legal, and social developments relevant to the level of freedom in specific countries. Analysing governance structures, political events, civic space conditions, and human rights violations. Supporting the creation and updating of country classifications through evidence-based research and analysis. Collaborating with regional teams to align findings with HRF’s broader evaluation frameworks. Preparing written summaries, memos, and research products that inform HRF’s internal and external outputs. Ensuring meticulous documentation, fact-checking, and data accuracy across all assigned tasks. These responsibilities offer fellows an opportunity to strengthen their expertise in comparative political systems, human rights documentation, and policy-oriented research. Eligibility and Required Skills Candidates should demonstrate foundational academic or professional experience relevant to political and human rights research. HRF seeks individuals who can handle complex information with rigour, clarity, and responsibility. Required skills and qualifications include: Prior experience or academic background in international relations, political science, human rights, international or comparative law, or a closely related field. Strong research, analytical, and writing abilities, with the capacity to synthesise data effectively. Demonstrated passion for research-driven work and written analysis. High attention to detail, strong organisational skills, and a self-motivated work ethic. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a global, remote team environment. Alignment with HRF’s mission to promote and protect human rights under authoritarian regimes. Preferred qualifications include prior experience in the democratization field or familiarity with democratization literature. Although not required, such background may strengthen a candidate’s ability to engage deeply with the project’s thematic focus. Application Process Interested applicants should submit the following materials: A current resume detailing relevant academic and professional experience. A cover letter outlining motivation, regional interest (Africa or Asia), and suitability for the role. Two brief writing samples, each no more than five pages, demonstrating research and analytical capabilities. Applications should be sent via email to kristen@hrf.org. Conclusion These Research Fellow positions provide a valuable opportunity for emerging professionals to contribute to a global initiative monitoring political freedom and authoritarianism. Through analytical research, collaborative learning, and exposure to HRF’s mission-driven work, fellows gain practical experience that supports future pathways in international affairs, human rights advocacy, and political analysis. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.