Today, all over the world, there are men, women, and children whose basic human rights are not being honored or sufficiently met. There are families who go to bed hungry, entire communities without a clean source of water, and children being sold into slavery by traffickers trying to make some money.
As unsettling as this reality is, there is some good news! There are countless organizations worldwide working to meet the needs provide a glimmer of hope to those individuals who need it most. These organizations rely on the time and effort of dedicated men and women to keep their work sustainable.
If you have a passion for helping people and human rights issues light a fire in your heart, check out these incredible opportunities to learn, travel, and grow your human rights career, all while making a difference for those in need!
The Maya indigenous populations of Guatemala have been dealing with social exclusion for decades. A problem which began during Guatemala’s 36 year civil war, the Maya continue so be denied the basic rights, such as land ownership, given to other Guatemalans.
This internship provides the opportunity to work with local organizations to support the vulnerable populations of Guatemala by documenting abuse cases and providing community education surrounding these human rights issues.
2. Buenos Aires: Human Rights Professional Placement
If you are looking for an ideal career building internship in the human rights field, this Argentinian internship is right up your alley. This internship will have you working closely with those managing one of Buenos Aires most significant nonprofit organization.
This internship provides individuals with the unique opportunity to learn how to manage a nonprofit organization. Interns will also have their hands in the organization’s community outreach efforts, including equal access to education and healthcare. This internship is both an incredible resume builder and wonderful opportunity to serve those in need.
3. Tanzania: Human Rights and Legal Aid
Women and children are the most vulnerable populations in Tanzania. Historically, women in Tanzania were denied all basic rights given to men. Although today, women technically have the same legal rights as men, old habits die hard and Tanzanian women are often treated poorly by male family members, friends, and neighbors.
For those with a passion for supporting women’s rights, this internship aims at empowering women and changing societal norms. Interns will be working in nonprofit organizations to counsel and support women in need. They will also spend time in a Legal Aid clinic, helping to support and prepare women to present their cases effectively in court.
4. Ecuador: Women’s Rights Advocacy and Domestic Abuse Prevention
Not unlike Tanzania, Ecuador’s female population also suffers from gender inequality. Domestic abuse and violence toward women has become a significant problem in Ecuador.
This internship works to serve and protect women in need. Interns will participate in the day to day running of Ecuador’s first women’s shelter and work to educate the community on domestic violence. For those interested, this internship offers the unique cultural immersion experience of living with a local family. There is no better way to understand the culture and needs of another group of people than to live among them.
5. Cambodia: Communications and Fundraising Manager
For those with a background in business, communications or marketing and a desire to make a difference, put your talents and passions to good use serving the underprivileged children of Cambodia. One of the poorest countries in the world, many in Cambodia go without their basic needs being met.
This internship works closely with a nonprofit organization to provide food, free healthcare, and clean drinking water to children in Cambodia. This position would involve developing and implementing fundraising strategy, raising awareness and recruiting volunteers to continue the organization’s important work.
Not for profit organizations, such as these, are depending on the work of highly motivated and skilled interns to continue serving populations in need. Whether your passions lie with serving children or you have an interest in creating systemic change within the legal system, there organizations and opportunities for everyone. If you are looking for an opportunity to further your human rights career, add to your resume, and participate in meaningful, impactful, and life changing work, check out one of these internships today!
Sandwiched between Thailand and Vietnam, this landlocked Southeast Asian destination is a hidden gem and an often overlooked tourist hotspot. Boasting mountainous terrain, picturesque waterfalls, stunning architecture (think lots of temples and buddhist monasteries) and rich culture, Laos is a beautiful place to spend time during your gap year. It’s also fairly easy to travel to neighbouring countries. 
Another popular destination in Southeast Asia, Thailand is known for its incredible tourist culture, stunning beaches, tasty cuisine and lively ex-pat community. Many backpackers and travellers like to hit vacation spots like Phuket and Chiang Mai to visit historic sites. Western expats often choose Thailand as a home away from home due to the low cost of living compared to their North American or European home-towns. 
As the second-most populous country in the world, India definitely provides a rich travel experience. With its history, culture and traditions, iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, and delicious local cuisine, this South Asian destination has a lot to offer the modern traveller. Along with being a hub for information/technology opportunities, more rural areas in India can offer opportunities to exchange accommodations and meals for work. 
Visit the southernmost tip of the African continent and explore the historic sites of Johannesburg, the beautiful coast of Cape Town, or cosmopolitan Durban Beach. In South Africa, you’ll experience the multi-ethnic community and fusion of variety of cultures (there are 11 officially recognized languages!). Notable sites to visit include Mandela House, The Apartheid Museum, Kruger National Park and The Garden Route along the coast. 
Take a walk through ancient history in Athens, drink in the scenic azure blue waters on the coast and bask in the beauty of Santorini’s white-washed buildings. Greece is a European tourist gem, and is eager to welcome tourists to help give the economy a boost. If you’re looking for a beautiful but affordable place to visit during your gap year, make sure Greece is on the list! 
Trekking Mount Everest and other snowy peaks of the Himalayas aren’t the only draws towards this South Asian destination. Nepal also offers a wide range of unique cultural experience in both small charming villages and renowned cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara. For an extra dose of intrigue, visit Lokara–the birthplace of the famous Buddha. 
With over 17,000 islands, this popular vacation destination attracts all types of tourists– from new graduates looking for an adventure and individuals looking for a spiritual retreat. Bali is one of this nation’s most well-known bucket-list places to see, not to mention Indonesia reportedly has some of the best scuba-diving in the world! 
This old-world Latin American country is full of stunning colonial architecture, a diverse indigenous culture, drool-worthy local cuisine–all against a backdrop of picturesque volcanic peaks. If you’re a beginner or novice traveller, be sure to do some research and travel with a group to increase your confidence. Better yet, enroll in a volunteer or internship program to get an authentic, immersive experience into Guatemalan life with the guidance of local hosts!
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