Human Rights First Internship: A Pathway to Championing Justice

Human Rights First has dedicated nearly half a century to defending human rights and promoting justice, both within the United States and on a global scale. Through its multifaceted programs, the organization empowers individuals to actively combat oppression, advocate for policies that protect asylum seekers, and challenge systemic abuses that undermine democracy and individual freedoms.

In a world increasingly threatened by authoritarianism and policies driven by fear and division, the work of Human Rights First is more critical than ever. The organization offers internships that provide invaluable experience and contribute to meaningful change.

Making a Tangible Impact

Human Rights First internships offer a unique opportunity to move beyond the theoretical study of human rights issues and engage in real-world action. Interns work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment, gaining unparalleled experience while contributing to critical human rights efforts. As one former Immigrant Justice Corps Fellow attests, the experience at Human Rights First was "fundamental in establishing my career as an asylum lawyer."

Internship Opportunities

Human Rights First offers internship programs in the fall, spring, and summer. The organization welcomes both in-person and remote applicants. For in-person internships, the office is located in Washington, DC, and interns are responsible for their own accommodations and transportation to the office.

Eligibility and Skills

Internship requirements vary depending on the specific department or program. However, some general qualities are highly valued:

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Demonstrated interest and enthusiasm for policy and advocacy related to human rights issues.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, and Outlook).
For certain teams, such as Video or Graphic Design, specific skills like Photoshop or video editing may be required.

Human Rights First recognizes that many applicants may be applying for their first internship and encourages them to focus on crafting thoughtful and well-written essays for each application question. When providing references, it is recommended to choose supervisors, professors, or colleagues rather than friends or family members.

Non-Legal Internship: Refugee Representation (Spring 2026)

The Los Angeles office of Human Rights First is seeking motivated non-legal interns for the Spring 2026 semester to provide general support to the Refugee Representation program.

Requirements:

Currently enrolled graduate or undergraduate student.
Strong interest in and commitment to human rights.
Fluency in Spanish.
Excellent organization and communication skills.
Access to a computer and internet connection (as the position may be performed remotely).

People of color, women, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBT community are strongly encouraged to apply.

How Interns Make a Difference

Non-legal interns play a crucial role in the Refugee Representation program, which provides legal assistance to asylum seekers who cannot afford an attorney and need help with their claims for asylum or other humanitarian-based immigration relief. By supporting the program, interns directly contribute to Human Rights First's mission of promoting respect for human rights and the rule of law in the United States.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Intern responsibilities may include:

Assisting staff members in meeting with clients.
Conducting screening and intake interviews with potential clients.
Drafting case summaries.
Drafting and editing documents, including declarations and other legal advocacy materials for asylum seekers.
Updating and maintaining databases.
Monitoring news and conducting country condition research for analysis and reporting.
Providing interpretation services (if fluent in a relevant second language).
Preparing and filing forms for clients, including asylum applications, family reunification petitions, and applications for permanent residency.
Attending legal trainings, advocacy groups, and discussion panels.
Assisting with researching and maintaining lists for social services referrals.

Desired Skills and Experience

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
Excellent computer and online research skills, including familiarity with word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Dedicated interest and passion for immigration advocacy and protecting the rights of migrants.
Experience working with vulnerable populations and survivors of trauma.
Ability to work collaboratively with staff, clients, and community organizations.
Motivation to work independently/remotely.
Initiative and enthusiasm.
Spanish fluency (reading and writing) is required; fluency in other languages is a plus.

Internship Details (Spring 2026)

Education: Undergraduate, graduate, and/or recent graduate.
Compensation: Unpaid.
Start Date: January 20, 2026.
End Date: April 24, 2026.
Time Commitment: 10-29 hours/week.
Submission Deadline: November 21, 2026.
Application Instructions: Submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample, all in PDF format.

A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Human Rights First is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment that welcomes a range of perspectives. The organization believes that a diverse staff makes it stronger and more effective.

Volunteer Lawyer Opportunities

Through Human Rights First's Refugee Representation program, volunteer lawyers have the unique opportunity to change the lives of refugees by helping them win asylum in the United States. Clients have often fled political, religious, ethnic, and gender-based persecution in countries plagued by human rights violations. They cannot afford counsel and desperately need representation.

Bilingual volunteers are especially helpful in assisting with screening phone calls and intake interviews, as well as translating foreign language documents into English.

The Role of Interns in Refugee Representation

Interns play a vital role in Human Rights First's Refugee Representation program by:

Conducting client intakes.
Performing extensive research regarding human rights conditions in countries around the world.
Helping analyze potential clients' asylum claims.

Many clients have endured torture and other brutal forms of persecution, and may have physical and psychological scars.

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