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Human Rights Internship Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

U.S Comm for Refuge

Communications Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Monitor news coverage and social media trends related to refugees, immigrants, and human rights. * Interns will be supported by Communications staff in producing, at minimum, the following examples ...

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Human Rights Internship information

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How much do human rights internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights internship in Washington is $18.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Human Rights Internship vs Human Rights Associate?

AspectHuman Rights InternshipHuman Rights Associate
Required CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates, some internships may require coursework in human rights or related fieldsBachelor's degree often required; some roles prefer or require additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentTemporary, entry-level, often in NGOs, international organizations, or advocacy groupsFull-time, professional setting with more responsibilities, often in similar organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by NGOs, UN agencies, and advocacy groups for training and developmentUsed by organizations for ongoing projects, policy work, and advocacy efforts

In summary, a Human Rights Internship is an entry-level, temporary position ideal for students or recent graduates gaining initial experience. A Human Rights Associate is a more permanent, professional role requiring some experience or education, with greater responsibilities in human rights work.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a Human Rights Internship?

As a Human Rights Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects such as conducting research on human rights issues, drafting reports or policy briefs, assisting with advocacy campaigns, and supporting event planning or outreach efforts. Interns often work closely with experienced staff and may also help monitor developments in human rights law or policy. This role typically involves collaboration with team members from diverse backgrounds, offering opportunities to learn about legal, social, and international perspectives. Interns gain valuable experience in both independent work and group projects, helping to develop critical thinking and communication skills.

What is a Human Rights Internship?

A Human Rights Internship is a temporary position, often aimed at students or recent graduates, that provides hands-on experience in organizations focused on promoting and protecting human rights. Interns may assist with research, advocacy, event planning, or communications related to issues such as social justice, legal rights, or humanitarian efforts. These internships help individuals gain practical skills, build professional networks, and deepen their understanding of human rights work. They can take place at non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, or international bodies. Most positions are unpaid or offer modest stipends, but they are valuable stepping stones for careers in law, public policy, or international relations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Human Rights Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Human Rights Intern, you need foundational knowledge of international human rights laws, research skills, and often enrollment in or completion of a related degree such as political science or international relations. Familiarity with research databases, Microsoft Office Suite, and sometimes data analysis or case management systems is beneficial. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and advocate for vulnerable populations. These capabilities are crucial for contributing to impactful projects, supporting advocacy efforts, and navigating complex global human rights issues.
What are the most commonly searched types of Human Rights jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Human Rights jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Internship jobs in Washington? For Human Rights Internship jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Internship jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Internship jobs in Washington are:
Human Rights Internship jobs near you
Human Rights Accountability Legal Intern - Fall 2026

Human Rights Accountability Legal Intern - Fall 2026

Human Rights First

Washington, DC

Internship

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Human Rights Accountability Legal Intern - Fall 2026

The Accountability Legal Intern will assist with research and analysis aimed at strengthening our team’s ability to effectively advocate for targeted sanctions against human rights abusers and corrupt officials around the world using Magnitsky-style sanctions programs from the U.S., UK, EU, Canada, and Australia. In particular, the intern will be asked to perform legal and policy background research and maintain databases to improve our understanding of the applicability, use, and effects of different sanctions programs. The intern will also be asked to perform research and writing related to specific instances of serious human rights abuse and/or corruption as we work to identify individuals for consideration as possible designees under various government sanctions programs, including the Global Magnitsky sanctions program and similar programs from other jurisdictions. In addition, the intern will be asked to conduct research and draft materials to support Congressional advocacy efforts related to this and other related work to promote and protect Magnitsky sanctions and other accountability tools and institutions, such as the International Criminal Court. The intern will gain professional experience in legal analysis, persuasive writing, and engagement with a diverse range of partners. The intern may also be involved in our efforts to protect accountability institutions and human rights activists from attack by the Trump administration and other actors.
Interns must be located in the United States.
How will the intern make a difference in the Human Rights space through this internship?
The intern’s work will make Human Rights First and its partners more effective advocates in seeking accountability for human rights abuses and corruption, by helping make the strongest case possible for sanctions in specific instances and by improving our overall understanding of the impact and implementation of these tools. The intern’s work will also support Human Rights First’s efforts to protect accountability tools and institutions from attacks and misuse.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Support attorneys in policy, legal, and data research projects to inform our efforts and those of our coalition partners related to human rights and anti-corruption sanctions and advocacy.
  • Monitor and report on events occurring around the world that are relevant to our work.
  • Work with attorneys reviewing Magnitsky case files to provide information and answer questions.
  • Conduct research to gather information and assist in preparing files for Global Magnitsky recommendations for the U.S. and other major Magnitsky jurisdiction governments involving serious human rights abuse or corruption.
  • Track, via internal databases, different government, NGO coalition, and HRF metrics.
  • Assist with coordinating NGO training sessions on targeted sanctions.
  • Assist with advocacy to government entities and the public regarding the Global Magnitsky sanctions program and other related Magnitsky-style programs (drafting blogs, op-eds, factsheets, other publications).
  • Opportunity for additional responsibilities based on performance.

Desired Skills and Experience

  • Strong research and writing skills.
  • Significant knowledge of the human rights context in at least one region of the world, and/or significant knowledge of human rights issues facing vulnerable and marginalized groups.
  • Ability to apply legal standards to the facts of specific cases.
  • Knowledge of human rights and/or anti-corruption concepts, methods, statutes, and instruments desirable.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Foreign language skills desirable.
Education: Law student (J.D. or LLM) preferred.
Compensation: Unpaid
Submission Deadline: July 24, 2026
Start Date: September 8, 2026
End Date: December 11, 2026
Time Commitment: 10-12 hours/week
Application Instructions: Please include a cover letter, resume, and two writing samples (ideally related to human rights or corruption).


Human Rights First is committed to recruiting, retaining, and developing staff from a diversity of backgrounds, including members of racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ people, people with disabilities, people of all socioeconomic backgrounds, people of all nationalities, and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. We believe that a diverse staff and an inclusive work environment that welcomes a range of perspectives make us stronger and more effective.

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