The Asia Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a Researcher who will focus on improving human rights in Sri Lanka and Nepal. The Asia Division is a part of the Program Office. The Program Office, consists of regional and thematic divisions and oversees research, reporting and various other work. The Asia Division works to advance human rights in Asia and conducts a wide range of work, including investigation, report writing, advocacy and media work. This position will preferably be based in South Asia and will report to the South Asia Director.
The successful applicant must be flexible and able to respond quickly to crises and conflicts as they may occur, in coordination with other Asia Division staff. The Researcher must have strong research and documentation skills and be capable of producing excellent written material under tight deadlines. A background in working on human rights concerns in the South Asia region is required. Oral and written communications skills in English are essential; knowledge of a South Asian language is highly desirable. Experience living or working in the region is also an asset. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, well-organized, able to work quickly and well under pressure both independently and as a member of a team, and demonstrate a commitment to international human rights.
- Research, monitor and document the human rights situation in Sri Lanka and Nepal by collecting and analyzing information from a wide variety of sources including governments, media, academia, NGOs, victims, witnesses, journalists, diplomats, security forces and others;
- Write and publicize reports, briefing papers, letters, news releases, op-eds, and submissions to international bodies; collect supporting documents and materials such as photographs and videos;
- Assist in the development and implementation of local, regional, and international strategies to change abusive laws, policies, and practices;
- Respond to queries from the media, public, and colleagues in the human rights community and take initiative to project concerns in public debates;
- Place abuses within the broader political, social and economic contexts and present human rights concerns to government officials, opinion leaders, inter-governmental agencies, and the media;
- Work closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local human rights organizations to ensure that HRW’s work complements and enhances their own work without jeopardizing their security;
- Liaise effectively with HRW staff located in multiple locations throughout the world to ensure effective coordination and delivery of activities;
- Travel for substantial periods of time, several times a year, to carry out research and advocacy;
- Deliver outputs in a timely manner and consistent with the agreed strategy and priorities of the Asia Division;
- Assist the Asia Division and HRW’s Development and Outreach Department in conducting fundraising;
- Work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events, as needed; and
- Carry out any other duties as required.
- A minimum of three years of professional-level experience working on Nepal and Sri Lanka, preferably in human rights or related issues, is required.
- Ability to identify, research, analyze and effectively communicate important human rights developments in Nepal and Sri Lanka is required.
- Ability and sensitivity to conduct interviews with a wide range of people, including victims and witnesses, are required.
- Ability to identify and advise on strategies to conduct research and advocacy is required.
- Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human rights law are required.
- Ability to produce high-quality written material under tight deadlines is required.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required. Fluency with speaking, reading and writing in Tamil, Sinhala or Nepali is preferred.
- Strong initiative and follow-through, capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent editing skills, and dynamic public speaking skills are required.
- Strong interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.
- Ability to multi-task effectively, including having strong planning and organizing skills, and ability to work well under pressure are required.
- Ability to think strategically about the global and local media environments and how to use the media and electronic media to further goals are required.
HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits. HRW will pay reasonable relocation expenses and will assist employees in obtaining necessary work authorization, if required; citizens of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.