US Programs Intern
PREFERRED LOCATION(S)
Los Angeles, CA (United States)
New York, NY (United States)
New York, NY (United States)
POSITION TYPE
Internship/Volunteer
TERM
Summer 2017
DEADLINE
March 31, 2017 11:59PM ET
Description :
The US Program of Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking undergraduate interns for the summer of 2017. The internship will primarily focus on the research related to US human rights problems, especially those related to criminal justice and sexual assault. This internship will allow the intern to learn more about bail and sentencing reform, private probation companies, criminalization of drug possession, racial disparities in the criminal justice system, and the mishandling of sexual assault cases. Internship will begin in May 2017 and end in August 2017, though dates are flexible. Ideally the intern will be available full time.
Internships are unpaid. Students are often able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships often 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.
Internships are unpaid. Students are often able to arrange academic credit, as HRW internships often 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.
Responsibilities
- Conducting basic legal and social science research
- Using available resources to conduct such research, including reviewing media, policy papers and academic reports
- Monitoring legislation and US polices related to criminal justice
- Identifying and understanding key issues
- Assisting with data analysis, where appropriate
- Compiling case histories and researching relevant state and federal policies
- Presenting information in a compelling manner
- Taking part in some basic advocacy activities such as drafting and/or submitting official requests (including Freedom of Information Act requests) to courthouses, departments, and agencies and contacting public officials, where appropriate
Qualifications
Enrollment in an accredited undergraduate program for the duration of the internship term
- Strong interest in US domestic human and civil rights issues, particularly related to criminal justice and sexual assault policy
- Demonstrated commitment to human rights
- Computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office, internet applications) and experience completing social science research
- Relevant coursework is highly desirable and knowledge of Spanish is a plus.
Applicants who are offered an internship, but who are not US permanent residents, US citizens, or in possession of a valid student visa, must apply for a J-1 visa through a sponsoring organization. This process can take several weeks and applicants will have to incur their own costs.
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