Internships at the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) offer a unique opportunity for aspiring human rights professionals to gain paid, hands-on experience within a leading international non-governmental organisation (NGO). These human rights internships are designed for individuals who want to actively contribute to the protection of human rights defenders, the strengthening of international human rights systems, and the advancement of global advocacy efforts. The ISHR internships combine practical learning, professional development, and direct exposure to international human rights work, making them highly competitive and impactful opportunities for early-career professionals.

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Introduction and Background to ISHR Internships

The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) is a well-established international NGO that works to support human rights defenders, build and lead human rights coalitions, and respond to significant and systemic human rights concerns worldwide. Through its internship and fellowship programmes, ISHR provides emerging professionals with an opportunity to engage directly in its mission while developing practical skills relevant to international human rights advocacy.

Since 2021, ISHR has made a strong institutional commitment to offering paid internships only, ensuring that access to human rights career pathways is more inclusive and equitable. ISHR interns are not observers; they are fully integrated into the organisation’s daily work, participating in meaningful projects that contribute directly to ISHR’s programmes and advocacy efforts at the United Nations and beyond.

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Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply for ISHR Internships

The ISHR internship programme is open to qualified candidates from all countries, reflecting the organisation’s strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal employment opportunity.

While specific academic disciplines are not rigidly prescribed, applicants are generally expected to have an academic background or strong interest in:

• Human rights

• International relations

• Law

• Political science

• Social sciences

• Or closely related fields

Key eligibility considerations include:

• A demonstrated interest in international human rights issues

• Ability to work in a professional, multicultural NGO environment

• Willingness to commit to a full-time internship period

• Capacity to engage in research, advocacy, and administrative tasks related to human rights work

ISHR does not accept spontaneous applications. All candidates must apply through officially advertised vacancy announcements.

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Commitment to Diversity and Equal Opportunity

ISHR is firmly committed to equal employment opportunity and fair recruitment practices. Applications are encouraged from all qualified individuals regardless of:

• Race or colour

• National origin

• Age or religion

• Disability status

• Sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics

• Pregnancy, socio-economic status, or any other characteristic protected by law

ISHR particularly welcomes applications from systematically and historically discriminated groups, including women, persons of colour, LGBTIQ+ persons, and persons with disabilities. Diversity is viewed as a strength and a core value of the organisation.

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Program Details: Structure, Duration, and Location

ISHR offers two internship rounds per year:

• First round:

  • Starts: 1 February

  • Ends: 31 July

• Second round:

  • Starts: 1 September

  • Ends: 28/29 February

All internships are paid, with interns receiving a stipend either directly from ISHR or from a third-party sponsor.

For internships based in Geneva, Switzerland, a tripartite internship agreement must be signed between the intern, ISHR, and the teaching institution or third-party sponsor, in line with Canton of Geneva labour law. This requirement does not apply to internships based in New York.

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Internship Position Available for 2026

One of the advertised roles for the 2026 intake is:

Full-time Advocacy Programme Internship (In-Person)

• Location: Geneva, Switzerland

• Internship period: 02 March 2026 – 31 July 2026

• Application deadline: 26 January 2026 (midnight Geneva time)

This internship offers direct exposure to international advocacy work and engagement with United Nations human rights mechanisms.

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Training, Learning, and Professional Opportunities

The ISHR internship programme places strong emphasis on learning and professional growth. Interns benefit from:

• Full inclusion in staff meetings, gaining insight into how an international human rights NGO operates

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

• Practical training sessions, where appropriate, on:

  • Monitoring UN human rights mechanisms

  • Drafting advocacy and policy documents

  • Preparing reports and submissions

  • Using communications and advocacy technologies

• Close supervision by one or two experienced managers, ensuring guidance, mentorship, and constructive feedback throughout the internship

These experiences equip interns with transferable skills that are highly valuable for careers in international organisations, NGOs, diplomacy, and public policy.

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How to Apply: Application Process

The application process for ISHR internships is straightforward but competitive:

1. Monitor ISHR’s official website for advertised internship vacancies

2. Select the internship role that matches your interests and availability

3. Prepare and submit your application through the official application link provided in the vacancy announcement

4. Ensure all application materials are submitted before the stated deadline

ISHR strictly does not accept unsolicited or spontaneous applications, so candidates should only apply when positions are formally advertised.

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Important Dates and Deadlines

• Internship start date: 02 March 2026

• Internship end date: 31 July 2026

• Application deadline: 26 January 2026 (midnight Geneva time)

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

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Apply Here: Official Application Portal

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Why Choose ISHR Internships

The International Service for Human Rights paid internships offer an exceptional opportunity to gain real-world experience in international human rights advocacy while working within a respected global NGO. With paid placements, structured training, strong mentorship, and a firm commitment to diversity and inclusion, ISHR internshipsare ideal for individuals seeking meaningful, career-building opportunities in the human rights sector. For those passionate about justice, equality, and global human rights systems, the ISHR internship programme is a powerful step toward a professional future in international advocacy.