The Human Rights Watch invites South African university students to apply for the Africa Division Internship (South Africa and Eswatini) 2026.
Internship Application Closing Date: 20 March 2026
Internship Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
The Africa Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a university student intern to be based in the Johannesburg Office from April 2026 to August 2026. The selected candidate will intern part-time (18–20 hours per week) and will contribute to ongoing research and advocacy projects in South Africa and Eswatini.
This opportunity is ideal for students passionate about human rights, research, public policy, and social justice in the Southern African region.
Internship Overview
- Position: Africa Division Intern (South Africa and Eswatini)
- Organisation: Human Rights Watch
- Duration: April 2026 – August 2026
- Hours: 18–20 hours per week (part-time)
- Location: Johannesburg Office
- Closing Date: 20 March 2026
- Monthly Stipend: R6,000 (pro-rated based on hours)
Key Responsibilities
The selected intern will work closely with HRW researchers and staff on various projects, including:
- Conducting desk research and small research assignments
- Monitoring media coverage relating to South Africa and Eswatini
- Compiling reports and summaries
- Conducting data analysis and identifying key human rights issues
- Drafting documents related to regional human rights matters
- Attending and assisting with planning substantive meetings
- Supporting additional projects aligned with the intern’s interests and skills
Interns may also attend lectures, professional development workshops, and special human rights events. This internship offers direct exposure to the operations of an international human rights organisation.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate programme for the full duration of the internship
- Have strong reading and writing proficiency in English
- Demonstrate a strong interest in human rights, particularly in South Africa and the region
- Be well-organised, self-motivated, reliable, and detail-oriented
- Possess strong computer skills (Microsoft Office, Excel, internet research tools)
Additional Requirement:
Applicants must have valid work authorisation in South Africa for the duration of the internship.
Academic Credit
Students may be eligible to receive academic credit, depending on the policies of their academic institutions. Applicants are encouraged to confirm credit requirements with their university.
Monthly Stipend
Interns in South Africa will receive a gross monthly stipend of R6,000, which is pro-rated according to hours worked. The stipend is intended to help offset living expenses in line with HRW policy.
Why Apply for the HRW Internship?
- Gain experience at an internationally recognised human rights organisation
- Work on real research and advocacy projects
- Develop analytical and writing skills
- Network with international and local human rights professionals
- Strengthen your CV for careers in law, policy, development, or advocacy
This internship provides meaningful exposure to research, documentation, and human rights monitoring in Southern Africa.
How to Apply
Click here to apply for the Africa Division Internship (South Africa and Eswatini):
👉 https://careers.hrw.org
Alternatively, you may apply directly via the official job listing:
👉 https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/humanrightswatch/jobs/8442652002
Applicants must submit:
- CV / Resume
- Letter of interest / Cover letter
- Brief writing sample
Important:
- No calls or email inquiries are accepted.
- Only complete applications will be reviewed.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Apply before 20 March 2026 to be considered.
Final Reminder
If you are a university student in South Africa passionate about human rights and regional justice issues, this internship at Human Rights Watch offers a valuable professional experience in research, advocacy, and policy engagement.
Early application is strongly recommended.