International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) Internship Programme

The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) offers paid internships and fellowships that provide hands-on experience working within an international human rights NGO. Interns contribute directly to ISHR’s mission of supporting human rights defenders, strengthening human rights systems, building global coalitions, and responding to systemic human rights challenges.

Since 2021, ISHR is committed to offering paid internships only.

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About the Internship Programme

ISHR internships combine meaningful responsibility with professional development. Interns are fully integrated into the organisation and actively participate in ongoing projects and advocacy work.

Interns benefit from:

• Full participation in staff meetings and programme activities

• Exposure to the work of an international human rights NGO

• Opportunities to interact with human rights defenders, diplomats, UN officials, and NGO professionals

• Practical training in areas such as:

  • Monitoring UN human rights mechanisms

  • Drafting advocacy and policy documents

  • Research, reporting, and communications

• Supervision and mentorship from experienced ISHR managers

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Internship Structure

ISHR offers two internship cycles each year:

• Cycle 1: 1 February – 31 July

• Cycle 2: 1 September – 28/29 February

All internships are advertised publicly.
ISHR does not accept spontaneous applications.

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Current Internship Opportunity

Position: Full-time Advocacy Programme Intern (in person)
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Internship Period: 02 March 2026 – 31 July 2026
Application Deadline: 26 January 2026 (midnight, Geneva time)

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Compensation & Legal Requirements

• Internships are paid, with a stipend provided either by ISHR or a third party

• For Geneva-based internships, a tripartite internship agreement (between ISHR, the intern, and a teaching institution or third party) is required in accordance with Canton of Geneva labour law

• This requirement does not apply to internships based in New York

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Commitment to Diversity and Equal Opportunity

ISHR is strongly committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discriminatory recruitment practices.

Applications are welcomed from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, colour, nationality, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, sex characteristics, socio-economic background, or any other status protected by law.

ISHR particularly encourages applications from historically and systematically marginalised groups, including women, persons of colour, LGBTIQ+ persons, and persons with disabilities.

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How to Apply

Internship vacancies are announced on the ISHR website. Interested candidates should apply directly through the advertised application process by the stated deadline.

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