Researcher

• Fixed Term, Fulltime Vacancy
• Asia Division
• Sydney Office preferred / Option to work remotely

The Asia Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a Researcher who will focus on improving human rights in Australia. The Asia Division works to advance human rights in Asia and conducts a wide range of work, including investigation, report writing, advocacy and media work.

This is a one-year, fixed-term position with a strong possibility of extension, dependent on funding. The Researcher will preferably be based in Sydney and will report to the Australia Director, based in Sydney.  

The successful applicant must be flexible and able to respond quickly to crises and conflicts as they may occur, in coordination with other Asia Division staff. The Researcher must have strong research and documentation skills and be capable of producing excellent written material under tight deadlines.  A background in working on human rights concerns in Australia is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, well-organized, able to work quickly and well under pressure both independently and as a member of a team and demonstrate a commitment to international human rights.

The successful candidate may have the option to work remotely but will be expected to work from the Sydney office on some occasions. We aim to be as flexible and supportive as possible in both the recruitment for and onboarding of this position.

Responsibilities:

1. Research, monitor and document human rights abuses by collecting and analyzing information from a wide variety of sources including governments, local media, NGOs, victims, witnesses, journalists, diplomats, security forces and others in the field;
2. Write and publicize reports, briefing papers, letters, news releases, op-eds, and submissions to international bodies based on the findings; collect supporting documents and materials such as photographs and videos;
3. Assist in the development and implementation of local, regional, and international strategies to change abusive laws, policies, and practices;
4. Respond promptly to queries from the media, public, and colleagues in the human rights community and take initiative to project concerns in public debate;
5. Place abuses within the broader political, social and economic contexts and present human rights concerns to government officials, opinion leaders, inter-governmental agencies, and the media;
6. Assist the Australia Director and HRW’s Development and Global Initiative Department in conducting fundraising;
7. Work closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local human rights organizations to ensure that HRW’s work complements and enhances their own work;
8. Liaise effectively with HRW staff located in multiple locations throughout the world to ensure effective coordination and delivery of activities;
9. Be prepared and willing to work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events;
10. Travel domestically and overseas, as required, to conduct fact-finding missions;
11. Deliver outputs in a timely manner and be consistent with the agreed strategy and priorities of the Program; and
12. Perform other tasks, as may be required.

Qualifications:

Education: An advanced (graduate) degree or equivalent work experience in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or related studies is required.

Experience: A minimum of three years of relevant experience in human rights research is required.

Related Skills and Knowledge

1. Ability to identify, research, analyze and effectively communicate important human rights developments in Australia is required.
2. Ability and sensitivity to conduct interviews with a wide range of people, including victims and witnesses, are required. Demonstrated awareness and sensitivity to the needs and concerns of individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and orientations is required.
3. Ability to efficiently distil information so as to focus time and effort on human rights issues of greatest importance or issues that are most capable of being influenced is required.
4. Ability to identify and advise on strategies to conduct research and advocacy is required.
5. Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human rights law is required.
6. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required.
7. Strong initiative and follow-through, the capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent writing and editing skills, and a dynamic public speaking ability are required.
8. Strong interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.
9. Ability to multi-task effectively, including having good planning and organizing skills and ability to work under pressure are required.
10. Demonstrated ability to think strategically about the global and local media environments and how to use the media and electronic media to further advocacy goals is required.

Other: Candidates must possess valid work authorization for Australia; HRW is unable to sponsor work permits for this role.

Salary and Benefits: 

Human Rights Watch offers competitive salary and comprehensive employer-paid benefits.