Human Rights Intern at United Nations

Human Rights Intern at United Nations – United Nations Kenya Job Details

About the Role

The Human Rights Intern at United Nations position is a full-time, unpaid internship based in Nairobi with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) East Africa Multi-Country Office. This role provides fresh graduates with direct exposure to UN operations and international human rights work across the East Africa region. You will work within a Secretariat department focused on strengthening human rights mechanisms, advancing equality, countering discrimination, and protecting rights in conflict-affected areas.

OHCHR operates across multiple mandates: enhancing accountability and the rule of law, integrating human rights into development policies, widening democratic participation, and providing early warning in situations of conflict and insecurity. The Human Rights Intern at United Nations will support these objectives while developing professional competencies in research, advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and policy analysis. This is an ideal entry point for Fresh Graduate jobs in Nairobi seeking hands-on experience in the international human rights sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse human rights developments and trends across economic, social, and cultural rights in East Africa countries covered by the Multi-Country Office
• Research and draft internal and external notes, briefs, and reports within assigned thematic or country areas
• Prepare daily news updates and situational reports documenting human rights conditions in the region
• Support the dissemination of international human rights standards and OHCHR activities through social media platforms and online channels
• Assist stakeholders in engaging with UN human rights mechanisms, including Special Procedures and Treaty Body processes
• Help integrate human rights perspectives into national and regional development policies, plans, and strategies
• Coordinate logistics for workshops, seminars, and meetings; take minutes and notes during conferences as assigned
• Perform additional duties as directed by the Deputy Head of the Multi-Country Office and thematic focal points

Requirements & Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree programme, or enrolled in a Master’s programme or equivalent, or have already completed a Master’s degree or higher qualification
• Preferred academic background in law, human rights, international relations, public administration, political science, social sciences, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated interest in United Nations work and commitment to the principles of the UN Charter
• Ability to work effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and belief systems
• Willingness to understand and respect differing perspectives and viewpoints
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for drafting reports and engaging with stakeholders
• No prior work experience required; relevant coursework, skills development, or volunteer experience in human rights is an asset
• Ability to commence the internship on the date specified in the acceptance letter

What to Expect

• Work directly with OHCHR East Africa Multi-Country Office staff in Nairobi, reporting to the Deputy Head and thematic support units
• Gain practical experience in human rights monitoring, research, policy analysis, and UN stakeholder coordination in a real-world setting
• Develop professional networks within the international human rights community and the broader UN system
• This Human Rights Intern at United Nations position in Nairobi is open to qualified candidates. Click Apply below to submit your application.