The Africa Division of Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking applicants for a six (6) month consultancy focused on research and advocacy work related to human rights violations in Burundi. The Africa Division works to promote human rights in Africa and conducts a wide range of work, including human rights investigations, report writing, advocacy, building local partnerships, and media work. The consultant will preferably be based in the Great Lakes region, but other locations may be considered.
- Conduct field research in Burundi, when possible, and in neighboring countries on recent grave human rights violations and abuses in Burundi, including those related to political repression;
- Conduct interviews, either in person or by phone due to security reasons, with witnesses and victims;
- Produce three extended press releases, as well as dispatches, op eds, and other timely research and advocacy documents in response to unfolding human rights-related developments in Burundi;
- Advise HRW on an advocacy strategy on Burundi;
- Monitor efforts by regional and international players to address the human rights and political crisis in Burundi, and maintain regular contact with the players involved;
- Work closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local human rights organizations to ensure that HRW’s work complements and enhances their own work and;
- Provide all notes and relevant documents to HRW throughout the consultancy.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and French are required; ability to speak a local language is desirable.
- Work experience in the Great Lakes region is required.
- Ability and sensitivity to conduct interviews with a wide range of people, including victims, witnesses, and government officials are required.
- Ability to produce high quality written materials is required.
- Strong interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.
Experience: A minimum of three years of experience in human rights research is required.
Other: Applicants for this position must have the ability to legally work as a consultant where they are based.
Duration: This is a six (6) month consultancy.
Fee: To be determined.