Spring Internships with Human Rights Watch

Spring Internships with Human Rights Watch The US Program of Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking undergraduate interns for the spring 2017 semester. The interns will learn about human rights problems inside the US, especially those related to criminal justice and immigration policy. Specific assignments will enable students to learn about bail and sentencing reform, criminalization of drug possession, and juveniles caught in the justice system. Interns will be oriented to HRW’s research methods and gain skills in their ability to conduct research and analyze data. They will also learn how to effectively monitor the press and draft documents regarding human rights issues in the United States. They will have exposure to HRW’s methods for compiling case histories and researching relevant state and federal policies. Additional projects will be assigned as the opportunity arises. Ideally, the candidates will be available to intern 10 to 15 hours a week for the spring semester, although timing can be flexible. Internships are unpaid. HRW internships often offer direct exposure to the workings of an international human rights organization, close supervision by HRW staff, interaction with other US organizations, and 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. Applicants should be well-organized, self-motivated, and reliable with a strong interest in US domestic human and civil rights issues, particularly related to criminal justice and immigration policy. Relevant coursework is highly desirable and knowledge of Spanish is a plus. Computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office, internet applications) and experience completing social science research are required. The intern must be a student in an accredited program for the duration of the internship term. Apply here.