Internship with the MENA Division of Human Rights Watch in Lebanon 2019

The Middle East and North Africa Division (MENA) of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is currently seeking interns in the Beirut office. The selected candidates will intern closely with the MENA deputy director, researchers, and research assistant. Ideally, the candidates will intern for three months, starting in July 2019, with the possibility for extension.

Responsibilities:

1. Research: The interns will conduct various short and long-term desk research assignments using sources in English and Arabic. The interns may help HRW staff conduct phone and/or in person interviews with victims of and witnesses to human rights violations under close staff supervision and guidance. The interns may have opportunities to attend conferences and events in Beirut related to ongoing projects. The interns will use databases and contribute to the production and release of reports and press releases.
2. Monitoring and Advocacy: The interns will monitor and summarize political and policy developments in Syria and Lebanon. The interns may have opportunities to attend internal advocacy strategy meetings.
3. Other assignments and projects will be assigned as they arise.

Qualifications:

1. This internship is open to graduates or students in law, social studies, international relations, political science, or related subjects with strong writing and research skills.
2. Excellent oral and written command of English and Arabic are essential.
3. Applicants should demonstrate precise attention to detail, a positive attitude, a proactive approach, and good judgment.
4. Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated, and reliable with a strong interest in human rights and some familiarity with Syrian and Lebanese politics.
5. Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Office, internet applications) are required.
6. Applicants must have valid authorization to intern in Lebanon.

Benefits:

Internships are unpaid. However, students may be able to arrange academic credit, as Human Rights Watch internships often offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by HRW staff, and interaction with other US and international organizations and foreign and domestic government officials. Students should check with their individual academic institutions for requirements.

Students will also have opportunities to attend lectures, trainings, professional development workshops, and/or special events relating to human rights, as well as network with other HRW interns, volunteers, and employees. As an HRW intern, students will take skills acquired in school and apply them in a professional setting.