Human Rights Watch (HRW) is inviting applications for an Africa Division Intern based in Nairobi, Kenya. The internship will support HRW’s ongoing human rights research and advocacy work relating primarily to Uganda and Tanzania. The opportunity is suitable for current undergraduate or graduate students and recent graduates who have a strong interest in human rights, research, international affairs, law, journalism, political science, development studies or related fields. The successful intern will work with HRW staff and gain practical experience in human rights research, monitoring, documentation and advocacy within an international organization. The internship is expected to begin in early October 2026 and continue through January 2027, although dates and working arrangements are flexible. About Human Rights Watch Human Rights Watch is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization known for conducting investigations, documenting abuses and advocating for changes in policies and practices affecting human rights. The Africa Division works on human rights issues across the continent and engages in research, reporting and advocacy on a wide range of issues. The Nairobi-based intern will contribute specifically to projects involving Uganda and Tanzania, providing research and administrative support to the relevant HRW teams. Internship Details The position is based at the Human Rights Watch office in Nairobi, Kenya. The internship is designed to be part-time, with interns ideally available for between 18 and 35 hours per week. Key details include: Organization: Human Rights Watch Division: Africa Division Position: Africa Division Intern Location: Nairobi, Kenya Primary Countries Covered: Uganda and Tanzania Expected Start: Early October 2026 Expected End: January 2027 Workload: Approximately 18–35 hours per week Compensation: KES 30,000 gross per month, pro-rated according to internship hours Application Deadline: 27 August 2026 The internship provides students with an opportunity to apply academic knowledge in a professional human rights environment while working alongside HRW researchers and staff. Key Responsibilities The selected intern will support research and other activities related to HRW’s work in Uganda and Tanzania. Responsibilities may include conducting desk research on human rights issues, including legal and background research. The intern will be expected to locate, review and organize relevant information that can support HRW’s research and reporting. The intern will also monitor Ugandan and Tanzanian news media and compile relevant reports and developments. This responsibility will help HRW teams track emerging human rights issues and significant political, legal and social developments. Other duties include assisting with the translation of documents in Swahili when necessary. The intern may also attend internal meetings and provide administrative support, including taking notes and preparing minutes. Additional projects may be assigned depending on the needs of the Africa Division and the intern’s interests, skills and abilities. Learning and Professional Development The internship is designed to provide practical exposure to the work of an international human rights organization. Interns may have opportunities to attend lectures, training sessions, professional development workshops and special events related to human rights. They may also interact and network with other HRW interns, volunteers and employees. The position can help participants develop practical skills in research, information analysis, writing, documentation, monitoring and professional communication. Students may also have the opportunity to arrange academic credit through their universities or other educational institutions, depending on the requirements of their academic programmes. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must meet several requirements to be considered for the internship. Candidates may be currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students or recent graduates from an accredited undergraduate or graduate programme for the duration of the internship term. Applicants should demonstrate strong organizational skills and be self-motivated, reliable and attentive to detail. A strong interest in human rights is essential. Relevant academic coursework is also highly desirable. One of the most important language requirements is proficiency in reading and writing in Swahili. Knowledge of an indigenous Ugandan language is considered beneficial. Applicants should also possess strong computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office, Excel and internet-based applications. Experience conducting online research is essential for the position. Work Authorization Requirement Applicants who receive an internship offer must have valid authorization to work or intern in Kenya for the entire duration of the internship. Candidates should therefore ensure that they meet the applicable Kenyan authorization requirements before applying. Compensation Interns in Kenya will receive a gross monthly stipend of KES 30,000. The stipend is pro-rated based on the number of internship hours and is intended to help offset living expenses in accordance with Human Rights Watch policy and applicable local requirements. The opportunity may also allow students to arrange academic credit through their educational institutions where applicable. Application Deadline The application deadline is 27 August 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible rather than waiting until the final day. Only complete applications will be reviewed, and because HRW receives a large number of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further consideration. Required Application Documents Applicants should prepare the required materials before starting the online application. The application should include: A current CV or resume; A letter of interest or cover letter; A brief writing sample that has not been edited by another person; and Three professional or academic references with their contact information. The writing sample should demonstrate the applicant’s ability to conduct research, analyze information and communicate ideas clearly. Documents are preferably submitted in PDF format, although the application system accepts other specified file types. How to Apply Applications should be submitted through the official Human Rights Watch careers portal. Applicants should complete the online application and upload all required documents before the deadline. HRW specifically advises candidates not to make telephone or general email inquiries regarding applications. Technical difficulties with the online application may be reported to the HRW internships team, but applications themselves must be submitted through the online recruitment system. Why Consider This Internship? The HRW Africa Division internship offers an opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain direct experience in international human rights research. By focusing on Uganda and Tanzania, the internship provides exposure to human rights developments in East Africa while allowing participants to develop practical research, monitoring, translation and documentation skills. The position may be particularly valuable for candidates interested in careers in human rights, international development, law, journalism, policy research, advocacy, diplomacy or civil society. Applicants should carefully review the official vacancy information and ensure that they meet the language, student or graduate status and Kenyan work authorization requirements before submitting an application. Global South Opportunities is not the organization offering this internship. Candidates should verify all vacancy details and application requirements directly with Human Rights Watch before applying. Key Details at a Glance Organization: Human Rights Watch Position: Africa Division Intern Location: Nairobi, Kenya Focus: Uganda and Tanzania Duration: Early October 2026 to January 2027 Hours: 18–35 hours per week Stipend: KES 30,000 gross per month, pro-rated Eligibility: Undergraduate/graduate students and recent graduates Language: Swahili reading and writing proficiency required Additional Language: Indigenous Ugandan language beneficial Work Authorization: Valid Kenyan authorization required Deadline: 27 August 2026 Application: Online through the Human Rights Watch careers portal VISIT HERE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) shares   jobs, internships, fellowships, grants, scholarships, and other opportunities for informational purposes only. GSO does not participate in the recruitment or selection process. Applicants should verify the vacancy details, eligibility requirements, application process, and deadline through the official organisation before applying. 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