CIVICUS is inviting applications for a Human Rights Internship that offers meaningful exposure to international advocacy, civic space monitoring, and global civil society engagement. This opportunity is designed for early-career professionals who are committed to advancing human rights and strengthening civic freedoms worldwide.
About CIVICUS
CIVICUS exists to defend people power wherever it is under threat. As a global alliance of more than 15,000 civil society organisations and activists across 189 countries, we work collectively to monitor violations of civic freedoms, expose those responsible, and support civil society to be more accountable, innovative, and impactful. A core part of our mission is amplifying the voices of communities that are excluded or marginalised, particularly in the Global South.
About this opportunity
The Human Rights Intern will play a supportive but impactful role in advancing CIVICUS’ advocacy priorities at the international level. Working closely with the UN Advisor and the UN Advocacy and Network Officer, the intern will contribute to engagement with UN human rights mechanisms, assist CIVICUS members and partners in advocacy spaces, and support research and communications related to civic freedoms and human rights.
This internship offers a unique opportunity to understand how international human rights advocacy operates in practice, while developing professional skills in research, coordination, communication, and stakeholder engagement.
Application deadline: 13 February 2026
Expected start date: 1 March 2026
What you will gain
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Practical experience engaging with the United Nations Human Rights Council and other international human rights mechanisms
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Direct exposure to civil society advocacy processes and global policy discussions
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Opportunities to work with human rights defenders, activists, and organisations from diverse regions and cultural contexts
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Mentorship and guidance from experienced advocacy professionals
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A deeper understanding of civic space issues, civil and political rights, and international human rights frameworks
Key areas of responsibility
UN advocacy and member support
You will support CIVICUS’ ongoing engagement with UN human rights mechanisms by assisting in the preparation and coordination of advocacy activities. This includes contributing to advocacy plans, drafting statements and speaking points, and supporting strategic engagement with diplomats, UN officials, and civil society partners.
You will also help ensure that CIVICUS members, partners, and human rights defenders are effectively supported during advocacy missions. This includes providing logistical assistance, coordinating schedules, and helping participants navigate international advocacy spaces in a safe and effective way.
Events coordination and communications
The internship includes hands-on involvement in the organisation of advocacy events, briefings, and meetings. You will assist with logistical planning, coordination with participants, and on-the-day support to ensure events run smoothly.
In collaboration with the communications team, you will also contribute to the development and dissemination of communication materials. This may include supporting social media messaging, event promotion, and internal communications related to CIVICUS advocacy work.
Research and administrative support
You will contribute to research on human rights and civic space issues by assisting with the drafting of background notes, briefs, summaries, and other written outputs. This research will support CIVICUS’ advocacy positions and public communications.
In addition, you will support administrative tasks related to office coordination and file management, helping to ensure that information, documentation, and resources are well organised and accessible.
Other responsibilities
As part of a dynamic and collaborative team, you may be asked to support additional tasks related to the scope of the role. This flexibility reflects the fast-moving nature of human rights advocacy and provides further learning opportunities.
Who should apply
This opportunity is best suited to candidates who are motivated, organised, and eager to build experience in international human rights advocacy.
Education and experience
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A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in international relations, law, politics, or a related social science discipline
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At least six months of relevant experience in international policy, advocacy, human rights, or a related field
Skills and competencies
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Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to draft clear and concise materials
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Solid IT skills, including confidence using MS Office tools
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A good understanding of international relations, global politics, and policymaking processes
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Familiarity with civil society organisations and human rights ecosystems
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Ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment and engage respectfully with diverse stakeholders
How to apply
The closing deadline for applications is 13 February 2026 at 11:59pm SAST.
The successful candidate is expected to start on 1 March 2026.
To apply, candidates should submit:
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A full CV outlining educational and professional experience
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A cover note (maximum one page) explaining their motivation for applying
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Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks after the closing date. All applicants will be informed once the position has been filled.
CIVICUS reserves the right to withdraw this opportunity at any time.
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