ISHR Internships and Fellowships 2026: Paid Internship, $700 Monthly Stipend, Eligibility and How to Apply
Overview
The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) offers internships and fellowships for students, recent graduates and early-career professionals who want practical experience in human rights, international advocacy, research and policy. ISHR works to strengthen human rights protection and to support human rights defenders, including through engagement with international and regional human rights mechanisms.
Since 2021 ISHR has offered paid internships and fellowships only. Directly hired interns receive CHF/USD 700 per month. Duration and applicable currency may depend on the individual placement.
What you get
Depending on the role and team, work can include human rights research, advocacy, policy analysis, international law, communications, campaigns, documentation, research and writing, monitoring human rights developments and organizational projects. Participants gain exposure to international human rights mechanisms and to how civil society organizations engage with governments, international institutions and human rights defenders. The experience can support later careers with international NGOs, the United Nations, governments, research institutions, law organizations or advocacy groups.
Who can apply
The programme is relevant to people with backgrounds such as international relations, international law, human rights, law, political science, public policy, international development, sociology and other social sciences. Requirements differ for each internship or fellowship. Strong research, writing, communication and analytical abilities are valued, and these can be shown through university research, student organizations, volunteering, publications or advocacy projects rather than only through full-time employment.
How to apply
Applicants should prepare an up-to-date CV and, if requested, a cover letter that explains their interest in human rights and how their experience relates to the specific position, then submit them following the instructions for the current vacancy. Deadlines vary by vacancy.