The Environment and Human Rights Program of Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking an enthusiastic and qualified current law or graduate student in human rights, environmental health or a related field to intern in the New York office for the Summer 2018. The intern will primarily focus on human rights research, analysis, and outreach related to climate change and environmental health. Ideally, the intern will be available beginning in May 2018 until August 2018 (dates are flexible).
Internships are unpaid. Students are often able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by the HRW staff, interaction with other international organizations and foreign and domestic government officials, and opportunities to attend lectures, trainings, and special events relating to human rights. Students should check with their individual academic institutions for requirements.
- Research assistance: The intern will conduct desk research using online resources. This includes reviewing and analyzing media articles, policy papers, project documents, and academic and NGO reports on a range of issues related to environmental health, climate change, and human rights.
- Media monitoring: The intern will monitor media coverage of HRW research projects and track new developments.
- Advocacy activities: The intern will draft memos, project analyses, letters, press releases, and other written materials. The intern may also have the opportunity to attend meetings at the United Nations and/or with civil society partners or government agencies.
- Candidates should be well-organized, self-motivated, strong writers, and good team players. Candidates should have a demonstrated passion and eagerness to learn more about human rights related to environmental issues. Interest and/or experience in human rights, environmental health, and climate change law are desirable. Strong written and oral command of English is essential. Fluency in a second language is a plus. Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Office, internet applications) are required.
- Applicants who are offered an internship, but who are not US permanent residents, US citizens, or in possession of a valid student visa, must apply for a J-1 visa through a sponsoring organization. This process can take several weeks and applicants will have to incur their own costs.