Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented candidate to join its Europe and Central Asia (ECA) Division as an Associate – Apply Before 1 June 2025

Job Opportunity: Associate, Europe and Central Asia Division
Location: New York, New York, United States
Application Deadline: June 1, 2025

About Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch (HRW) is a global human rights organization dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals worldwide. Known for its rigorous investigations, insightful reporting, and impactful advocacy campaigns, HRW works to change policies and practices that violate human rights. Through strategic reporting and campaigns, HRW has successfully influenced governments, international institutions, and corporations to uphold human rights standards.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented candidate to join its Europe and Central Asia (ECA) Division as an Associate. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to HRW’s mission of advancing human rights throughout Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Turkey. The ECA Division is engaged in critical work, including investigation, report writing, advocacy, and media outreach, and this role will provide invaluable administrative and operational support to the team. The position will be based in HRW’s New York office, and the selected candidate will work closely with the Deputy Director of the ECA Division.

Position Overview

As the Associate for the Europe and Central Asia Division, the selected candidate will provide day-to-day administrative support to staff across multiple countries and contribute to the effective coordination of HRW’s regional human rights efforts. The role will require flexibility and initiative, as you will be expected to manage various tasks that support the smooth functioning of the team. You will interact with colleagues located in different regions, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration. This position is ideal for candidates with an interest in international human rights, administrative support, and global teamwork.

This is a full-time, in-office position based in New York, where the selected candidate will be required to work in the office at least three days a week. The role offers a unique opportunity to engage with critical human rights issues while developing organizational and coordination skills in a globally renowned nonprofit organization.

Key Responsibilities

1. Administrative Support: Provide essential administrative support to ECA Division staff, including scheduling meetings, making travel arrangements, processing expense reports, and preparing materials for meetings. You will also assist with maintaining internal and external communication channels, ensuring that all tasks are executed on time and with attention to detail.
2. Travel and Documentation: Assist with the procurement of visas and travel documents for ECA staff and partners. You will also be responsible for maintaining extensive filing systems, managing contact databases, and ensuring that all relevant documents are archived and accessible.
3. Research and Content Preparation: Assist with drafting, proofreading, formatting, and coding a wide range of materials, including reports, news releases, op-eds, policy briefs, publications, and social media content. This will involve conducting desk research, news monitoring, and advocacy mapping, ensuring that all content is prepared accurately and efficiently.
4. Event and Meeting Coordination: Help plan and execute roundtables, special events, and advisory committee meetings. You will assist in the preparation of agendas, logistical coordination, and communication with external stakeholders.
5. Communication and Coordination: Act as a liaison between HRW offices, global staff, and external partners. This role requires effective communication and collaboration, particularly with the other ECA Associate based in Europe, to ensure the efficient handover of tasks and coordination of time-sensitive matters across time zones.
6. Support for Interns and New Staff: Assist with the recruitment, onboarding, and mentoring of interns. Additionally, you will support the recruitment process for division staff, providing administrative assistance with interviews, applications, and staffing needs.
7. Translation Support: Manage the transmission of documents to and from translators, ensuring that translations are completed in a timely manner. In some cases, you may be required to carry out translations as well.

Qualifications

• Education: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in human rights, international relations, social science, or a related field is required.
• Experience: A minimum of one year of relevant work experience, including administrative or office support, is required.
• Skills:
  • Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities to handle multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and manage time-sensitive workflows.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required. Additionally, proficiency in Russian (both oral and written) is a must for this role.
  • International Human Rights Knowledge: A genuine interest in and understanding of international human rights issues, particularly those affecting Europe and Central Asia, is essential.
  • Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail in managing documents, communications, and day-to-day administrative tasks.
  • Teamwork and Independence: Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse, global team. You should be comfortable with minimal supervision but also able to contribute effectively to team efforts.
  • Proficiency in MS Office: The candidate must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Other Requirements:
  • Applicants must possess valid US work authorization, as HRW is unable to secure work permits for this role.
  • Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment is crucial.

Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is between $60,001 and $64,328 USD, based on experience and qualifications. Human Rights Watch offers a comprehensive benefits package, including employer-paid health insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply by June 1, 2025, through HRW’s online application portal. Please submit a resume/CV and cover letter detailing your qualifications, experience, and interest in the position. Only complete applications will be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Due to the volume of applications, inquiries regarding the status of applications will not be answered.

If you experience any technical difficulties during the application process or need disability-related accommodations, please contact [email protected]. However, applications sent via email will not be accepted.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.