Human Rights Watch

Position: Press Associate
Organization: Human Rights Watch (HRW)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Type: Full-time, Fixed Location (Hybrid: 2–3 days/week in office)
Application Deadline: 2 September 2025
Salary: USD 35,000 per annum

About the Role

Human Rights Watch (HRW), a leading international human rights organization, is seeking a Press Associate to join its Communications Division. This position is based in Nairobi and will provide vital editorial and administrative support to HRW’s global Press Team, which operates within the larger Media Department.

The Press Associate will play a critical role in the production and distribution of high-impact communications content, including news releases, op-eds, reports, and web materials. The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues across time zones in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, and will report to the Associate Director of Communications, based in Washington, D.C.

Human Rights Watch .

Key Responsibilities

Editorial and Production Support

  • Copy edit a wide variety of HRW publications in accordance with the AP Stylebook.
  • Format and distribute press materials, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to HRW branding and messaging.
  • Track editorial workflows and publishing calendars, maintaining internal schedules and pipelines.
  • Liaise with translators and support multilingual distribution as needed.

Press and Media Coordination

  • Respond to incoming media inquiries and facilitate communication between journalists and HRW staff.
  • Support the creation of daily media roundups and analysis.
  • Maintain up-to-date media contact databases and distribution lists.
    • Support desk research and contribute to select multimedia and advocacy campaigns.
    • Assist other teams, where necessary, to ensure consistent output and information flow.
      • Assist in organizing press conferences, media briefings, and external events.

      Administrative Duties

      • Handle internal communications between HRW offices and global staff.
      • Maintain records of financial transactions, translation invoices, and team budgets.
      • Provide logistical support for staff travel, internal meetings, and vendor coordination.

      Research and Project Assistance

Qualifications

  • Prior experience in office administration or nonprofit communications is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies:

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and other digital tools for content tracking and workflow management.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail, deadlines, and version control.
  • Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required.
  • Multilingual abilities are a plus, particularly in Arabic, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, or German.
  • An understanding of international media landscapes and news cycles is advantageous.
  • Demonstrated commitment to human rights or international advocacy is a strong asset.

Working Conditions and Location

The successful candidate will be based in Nairobi, with a requirement to work from the HRW office 2–3 days per week. HRW provides a hybrid work environment, valuing flexibility while maintaining regular team collaboration.

This position offers the chance to work within a global organization, liaising with colleagues across time zones, and contributing to urgent, high-profile communications work that supports HRW’s investigations and advocacy efforts.

Remuneration and Benefits

  • Annual Salary: USD 35,000 (local market rate, subject to taxation as per Kenyan law)
  • Benefits: Comprehensive employer-paid benefits package (details to be provided upon offer)

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply by 2 September 2025 through the HRW Careers Portal Here

Application Requirements:

  • CV or resume
  • Letter of interest detailing relevant experience and motivation for applying

Note: Only complete applications submitted via the online portal will be reviewed. No email applications or phone calls will be accepted.

Applicants requiring assistance or a disability-related accommodation to submit their application may contact:
recruitment@hrw.org

Equal Opportunity Employer

Human Rights Watch actively encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds including gender, race, ethnicity, disability, and socioeconomic status. HRW is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment that reflects its values and mission.

About Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch is one of the world’s leading human rights organizations, known for its in-depth investigationsstrategic advocacy, and effective public campaigns. With staff in over 90 countries, HRW’s work influences policy and holds governments and institutions accountable for abuses. Its Media and Communications Division plays a crucial role in translating research findings into powerful public messaging that informs, engages, and drives change globally.

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