Looking for a chance to shape South Africa’s future and prove yourself in the field of human rights? The Foundation for Human Rights is opening its Internship Programme 2026, a full‑time, one‑year role that lets you dive into real projects and make a visible impact.
What the Internship Looks Like
This is a hands‑on internship where you’ll join the Programme team and help push forward initiatives that protect and promote human rights across the country. You’ll work on both administrative tasks and programme implementation, ensuring smooth delivery and contributing fresh ideas to ongoing projects.
Who Should Apply?
Eligibility
- Hold a postgraduate degree in Social Sciences, Law, International Relations or a closely related field.
- Have a solid grasp of social justice concepts and how to use human‑rights‑based approaches in development work.
- Be able to work independently and thrive in a team setting.
- Communicate clearly in both written and spoken English.
Experience (Nice to Have)
Prior involvement in social‑justice or human‑rights activism will strengthen your application, but it isn’t a requirement. Many first‑time applicants learn on the job.
What You’ll Gain
- Hands‑on experience with programmes that matter to real communities.
- Insight into how NGOs design, roll out and evaluate projects.
- Networking with professionals who are passionate about dignity and equality.
- A chance to see how policy, law and grassroots work intersect.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Prepare a CV that highlights your academic background, any related work or volunteer experience and relevant skills.
- Write a motivation letter explaining why you want to join FHR and what you hope to learn.
- Gather details of three contactable references who can vouch for your character and work ethic.
- Send an email to interns2026@fhr.org.za with the subject line Intern Application 2026.
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
Many applicants feel anxious about standing out. From experience, most successful candidates:
- Write a concise, focused motivation letter that tells a story about their passion for human rights.
- Use bullet points in their CV to highlight achievements and responsibilities.
- Proofread for typos – a clean, error‑free document shows professionalism.
- Ask a former supervisor or professor to give a strong reference that mentions specific skills.
Don’t worry if this is your first time applying – the Foundation values fresh perspectives and a willingness to learn.
Important Dates and Final Notes
- Application deadline: 10 April 2026
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Applicants must have the legal right to work in South Africa.
The Foundation for Human Rights is an equal‑opportunity employer that actively encourages applications from women and individuals from marginalised communities. If you’re ready to contribute to meaningful change, this internship could be your next step.
Apply today and become part of a team that champions human dignity and equality across South Africa.
