Application Deadline: November 16, 2018
The US Program of Human Rights Watch’s (HRW) is seeking qualified current graduate-level students (J.D. candidates preferred) to intern for the spring 2019 semester in the Washington, DC office. Ideally, the candidates will be available beginning in January 2019 until May 2019 (dates are flexible). The students will intern closely with the US Program staff including the Executive Director, who oversees the work of the US Program, and the Advocacy Director, who analyzes and advocates against human rights abuses related to US criminal justice and immigration laws, policies and practices.
The internship is unpaid. Students are often able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships often offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by the HRW staff, interaction with 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.
- The interns will learn about human rights issues within the US, especially those related to criminal justice and immigration policy.
- The internship will primary focus on bail and sentencing reform, criminalization of drug possession, and juveniles caught in the justice system.
- The interns will learn HRW’s research methodology and conduct desk research on issues such as US government abuses on the US-Mexico border and conditions of the immigration detention system.
- The interns will also contribute to monitoring the press, compiling case histories, researching relevant state and federal policies, analyzing data, and drafting documents regarding human rights issues in the United States.
- Additional projects will be assigned as the opportunity arises.
- Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated, and reliable with a strong interest in US domestic human and civil rights, particularly related to criminal justice and immigration policy.
- Relevant coursework and prior experience conducting social science and/or legal research is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of Spanish is a plus.
- Computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office, internet applications) are essential.