Human Rights Intern at CIVICUS (Remote Opportunity)

The Human Rights Intern role at CIVICUS presents a valuable opportunity for early-career professionals eager to engage in global advocacy and civic freedoms work. Through this paid, remote internship, candidates gain hands-on experience supporting international human rights processes while contributing to people-powered movements worldwide.

At the same time, the role provides direct exposure to United Nations advocacy and civil society coordination. As a result, it suits candidates who want practical experience in global policy, civic space protection, and international cooperation.

About CIVICUS

CIVICUS exists to defend people power across the world. As a growing global alliance with more than 15,000 members in 189 countries, the organisation actively monitors violations of civic freedoms and calls out those responsible.

In addition, CIVICUS strengthens civil society by supporting accountability, effectiveness, and innovation. Importantly, the organisation prioritises voices that are often excluded, particularly from the Global South, ensuring that advocacy reflects lived realities.

About the Human Rights Intern Role

This Human Rights Intern position supports the implementation of CIVICUS’ advocacy priorities under the guidance of the UN Advisor and the UN Advocacy and Network Officer. Rather than operating in isolation, the intern works closely with internal teams and external stakeholders.

Furthermore, the role contributes to network engagement, member support, research, communications, and event coordination. Because the internship is linked to the Geneva Office cluster, it offers meaningful insight into UN-focused advocacy while remaining fully remote.

Key Responsibilities and Activities

This human rights internship blends research, advocacy, and coordination. Therefore, candidates should feel comfortable balancing multiple responsibilities while working in an international setting.

UN Advocacy and Member Support

To begin with, the intern assists CIVICUS’ engagement with the UN Human Rights Council and other human rights mechanisms. Additionally, the role involves supporting the development of advocacy plans, written statements, and speaking points.

At the same time, the intern helps CIVICUS members, partners, and human rights defenders during advocacy missions by providing logistical and coordination support.

Event Coordination and Communication

Beyond advocacy, the intern supports the organisation of events, including planning and logistics. Moreover, the role includes assisting the communications team in delivering timely and effective materials that amplify advocacy messages.

Research and Administration

Equally important, the intern contributes to human rights and civic space research by drafting briefs and summaries. In addition, the role involves supporting administrative tasks such as file and office management.

From time to time, the intern may also carry out other duties related to the scope of work.

Education, Skills, and Experience Required

CIVICUS seeks motivated candidates with a strong foundation in international affairs and advocacy.

Essential Qualifications

Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in international relations, law, politics, or a related social science. Moreover, candidates must have at least six months of relevant experience in international policy development, advocacy, or civil society work.

Essential Skills and Knowledge

Successful candidates demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Additionally, they possess strong IT skills, including experience with MS Office.

A good understanding of international relations, policymaking, global politics, and the civil society landscape is also essential. Furthermore, candidates must be able to work collaboratively with stakeholders from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Desirable Experience

While not required, knowledge of French or Spanish is an asset. Likewise, willingness to travel to Geneva or other European locations one or two times during the internship is beneficial.

Internship Details

• Job Title: Human Rights Intern
• Location: Remote
• Salary: USD 1,200 per month (stipend)
• Contract Duration: Initial 3 months, extendable up to 6 months
• Start Date: 1 March 2026

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the CIVICUS careers portal. Because of the high volume of applications, early submission is strongly encouraged.

👉 Apply here: https://civicus.bamboohr.com/careers

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a full CV and a one-page cover letter outlining their motivation for applying.

🗓 Application Deadline:
13 February 2026 at 11:59 pm SAST

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date. All applicants will receive an update once the position has been filled.