Urban Unrest

11 January 2008 | Opportunities | Ernesto Aguilar

The Communications Department of Human Rights Watch is currently seeking two students or graduates with journalism experience to intern in its New York office:

• Media Coverage Intern

This intern will assist staff in closely monitoring coverage of Human Rights Watch in English- and foreign-language media. Drawing on internet research, the intern will collect news clippings and assemble them into comprehensive press packs for each report, to be used in evaluating impact and for development outreach.

• Press List Intern

This intern will help conduct research to expand and maintain lists of journalists reporting on human rights issues, broadening the impact and reach of HRW’s statements and reports. Familiarity with writers at major publications is advantageous for this internship placement.

Other projects can be assigned as they arise and match the student’s interests and abilities, including research, translation, web support and media outreach.

Internships are generally unpaid, although work-study funds are available. 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 US and 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.

Qualifications:

Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated and reliable, with a strong interest in international human rights. Familiarity working with journalists and knowledge of foreign languages (especially Arabic and French) are both highly desirable. Web and digital media skills are also a big plus. Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Office, database programs and internet applications) are required. Interns must be available for 20 to 30 hours per week, and for a period of at least four months.

Application instructions:

Please apply immediately (no calls or email inquiries, please) by emailing a letter of interest, résumé, contact information for two references, and a brief, unedited writing sample (of no more than two pages) to hrwpress@hrw.org. Please use “Communications Internship Application” as the subject of your email, and specify in its body for which of the two internships you are submitting an application. Only complete applications will be reviewed. Human Rights Watch is an equal opportunity employer.

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