Front Line Defenders and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) invite applications for an Internship at the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights to support the work of the Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders and Focal Point on Reprisals in Africa. It is a 12-month position based in Banjul, under the supervision of the ACHPR Secretariat. Candidates should be able to work in both English and French. Candidates who have experience as a Human Rights Defender in Africa will be prioritized.
The intern will gain practical work experience in an international institution, learn about Human Rights Defenders; the mandate of the ACHPR Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders; the specific situation and challenges facing Human Rights Defenders in the region and advocacy at the African Union level. They will be expected to participate in induction, periodic reviews, hearings, meetings, and relevant out-of-hours events.
The successful candidate will be able to draft well and have good analytical skills. They will have knowledge of the ACHPR functioning, and international and human rights law. They must be able to work in both English and French. Additional Africa Union working languages are an asset. Please note that we cannot make exceptions to the language requirement.
They will be able to work on own initiative and as a member of a team. They will have good oral and written communication skills and be computer literate. They will be flexible, have good interpersonal skills, good stress management skills and be cooperative. An ability to multitask and prioritize is a must. Previous work experience with organisations working in the field of human rights is desirable and previous experience working in a regional or international context will be an added advantage.
Basic terms of reference:
- Gather information on the situation of human rights defenders in Africa (with a particular focus on themes of concern identified by the Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders and Focal Point on Reprisals in Africa);
- In coordination with other thematic mechanisms and with geographic desk officers, draft urgent appeals and communications to Governments concerning human rights violations against human rights defenders;
- Support follow-up of cases taken up by the mandate;
- Analyse replies received from Governments and prepare summaries for inclusion in the annual report;
- Assist in the preparation of background materials for official missions by the Special Rapporteur;
- Assist in liaising with non-governmental organizations for the smooth implementation of the mandate, as needed.
Next recruitment is expected to take place in June 2024, please check the link for more information on how to submit your applications. Applications sent via e-mail will not be considered.
Interviews will take place during early July 2024 and will be held online. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the role is filled. The next intern is expected to start in August 2024 for a period of 12 months. Unfortunately due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Front Line Defenders is able to provide a contribution to living costs of USD 1800,00 per month. Front Line Defenders will reimburse the successful candidate the cost of their flights to and from Banjul, as well as reimburse the costs of a health or travel insurance. Please note that you may need additional funds to sustain your stay in Banjul.
