The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has caused immense suffering, with countless individuals displaced, harmed, and killed over the years. Tensions heightened on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, leading to Israeli retaliation and worsening the conflict. This escalation has created a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with 2.8 million people, including 1.2 million children, in need of assistance amidst airstrikes and bombings.

This moment demands our collective attention, solidarity, and action. As the global community bears witness to the unfolding tragedy, it is crucial to extend support where needed most. This can be done, for example, through donating to established and well-coordinated organisations that work on the frontlines to provide aid and relief. Below we have compiled a list of 14 well-established and trusted charities that help civilians in Palestine.

#1 UN Crisis Relief – Occupied Palestinian Territory Humanitarian Fund

The Occupied Palestinian Territory Humanitarian Fund, offers one of the quickest and most effective ways to provide urgent relief on the ground. The Fund consistently collects contributions, enabling it to swiftly aid a diverse range of partners in addressing the high priority humanitarian activities. Managed by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on behalf of the Humanitarian Coordinator, your donation plays a crucial role in alleviating the immediate needs of those affected by crises in the region.

Donate here: UN Crisis Relief Donation

#2 United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

As the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA focuses on ensuring safe pregnancies and fulfilling the potential of young people. Expressing deep concern for women and girls in Gaza, of whom 50,000 are pregnant, UNFPA addresses the critical need for reproductive health supplies and services during the conflict. For every dollar contributed, 92 cents directly fund program and service delivery, while a modest 8 cents cover administrative costs—a testament to the organisation’s efficiency and impact.

Those wishing to support UNFPA’s efforts can contribute directly through their donation page.

#3 International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) 

Guided by the Geneva Convention of 1949, ICRC is a humanitarian organisation aiding those affected by global conflicts. Partnering with the Red Cross and Red Crescent chapters, ICRC facilitates neutral humanitarian work in Israel and Palestine. Having maintained a presence in Israel and the occupied territories since 1967, ICRC, as a neutral and independent humanitarian entity, conducts essential work by visiting detainees in Israeli and Palestinian places of detention. Beyond this, the organisation actively contributes to enhancing access to vital services such as water and electricity in Gaza, while simultaneously supporting livelihood projects throughout the occupied territories.

To contribute to ICRC’s impactful initiatives and support its humanitarian mission, donations can be made through its dedicated donation page.

#4 UNICEF (United Nations Children Educational Fund)

Founded to help children in the aftermath of World War II by the UN Relief Rehabilitation Administration, UNICEF has evolved into a global leader in social welfare. Their commitment to humanitarianism is demonstrated through the continuous delivery of medical supplies, fuel, water, and financial support to conflict-affected children and their families. UNICEF has been at the forefront of responding to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, distributing emergency family kits, medicines, and medical supplies to those in need. UNICEF received a 92% score from Charity Navigator and received four out of four possible stars.

Contributions can be made through the UNICEF website.

#5 Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF, Doctors Without Borders)

Internationally acclaimed for its proficiency in medical humanitarian aid, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), or Doctors Without Borders, specialises in delivering immediate and impartial medical care to individuals confronted by conflicts and crises. The organisation’s humanitarian commitment is evident through its emphasis on addressing the most critical medical needs in challenging and high-risk environments. MSF has been actively operating in Gaza and the West Bank for two decades, focusing on regions where the health systems face significant challenges. MSF also extends its support to Israeli hospitals handling a substantial number of casualties. Recognized for its excellence, Doctors Without Borders received an impressive 98% score from the Charity Navigator evaluator, which affirms MSF’s efficacy as a highly impactful organisation.

For those keen on supporting MSF’s crucial medical interventions, donations can be made directly through their official website.

#6 Oxfam International 

Oxfam, a global organisation, works towards addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality. They implement various programs to bring about positive and sustainable change in affected communities. Operating on the ground in Gaza, Oxfam provides essential humanitarian aid, including clean water, food, and hygiene items to address immediate crisis impacts. Additionally, efforts are underway to repair critical water and wastewater systems damaged in recent bombings. Responding to the challenges of a 14-year Israeli blockade that has rendered Gaza “unlivable” per the UN, Oxfam’s interventions are crucial.

Support their ongoing efforts through donations, contributing to meaningful change in the region.

#7 Anera (The American Near East Refugee Aid)

Anera, with a history dating back to 1968, is a dedicated charity responding to critical needs in the Middle East. They focus on providing both emergency relief and long-term solutions to humanitarian crises in Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan. In response to the current situation, they have distributed over 4 million meals, 19,850 hygiene kits, and 607,963 medical kits to Palestinian refugees.

Contributions can be made directly through the Anera website or the Palestine Emergency Fund.

#8 Direct Relief

Direct Relief, founded in the aftermath of World War II, specialises in providing targeted medical aid following major emergencies, such as the current war between Israel and Hamas. They collaborate with global agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to bring medical aid into conflict zones and financially support regional partners on the ground.

Individuals can contribute to Direct Relief’s ongoing efforts through their official website.

#9 Save the Children 

Save the Children is a global organisation committed to securing the rights of children—ensuring their survival, protection, development, and participation. With a particular emphasis on conflict zones, the organisation tailors its programs to address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of children. Since their founding after World War I, the organisation has provided aid for every major humanitarian crisis, helping 118 million children in 116 countries. Actively involved since 1953, Save the Children has been supporting Palestinian children affected by ongoing conflict. Right now, their teams are working on distributing essential supplies such as water, food, toiletries, and household essentials. Additionally, efforts include providing fuel and water infrastructure for hospitals, delivering mental health and psychosocial support services for children and caregivers, setting up temporary learning spaces, repairing damaged schools, and identifying the most at-risk children for child protection services.

Donations can be made through the Save the Children website.

#10 World Vision

World Vision, founded in 1950, is a Christian international non-governmental organisation committed to improving the lives of children and those in need globally. They respond to humanitarian crises by supporting vital needs in local communities. Operating in Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank since 1975, World Vision has created an extensive community-based presence. In 2023, they assisted more than 136,000 people in 150 villages across the West Bank, providing rapid emergency supplies to families who have lost their homes, creating safe spaces for community members to support each other by restoring spaces destroyed by conflict, as well as offering psychological services.

You can donate to World Vision via their website, or donate directly to the Middle East Crisis Response. You can also support the charity by sponsoring a child.

#11 Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS)

PRCS is the Palestinian affiliate of the Red Crescent movement, providing healthcare services, emergency medical response, and humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict in Palestine. As part of the Red Crescent movement, PRCS operates under the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality, instilling trust in its humanitarian mission.

To contribute, visit: PRCS Donation Page

#12 Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund – PCRF

PCRF is a non-political humanitarian relief organisation with 30 years of providing tens of thousands of children with free medical care and supplying necessities to those most in need. PCRF’s impactful initiatives include the establishment of two paediatric cancer departments in Palestine, a new Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), and a paediatric cardiology department in Ramallah, among other critical projects aimed at sustainably strengthening the region’s healthcare system. The foundation relies on grassroots efforts, supported by a global network of thousands of volunteers, to fulfil its humanitarian mission.

To contribute to their efforts, you can donate at PCRF Donation

#13 MECA – Middle East Children’s Alliance

As a non-profit organisation dedicated to the well-being and rights of children in the Middle East, MECA supports numerous community projects for Palestinian children and refugees from Syria. Since its inception in 1988, MECA has delivered $31 million in food and medical aid to Palestine, Iraq, and Lebanon. Amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the MECA team and its partners are actively engaged in providing emergency assistance to families displaced from their homes, seeking refuge with relatives. MECA is also involved in procuring emergency medical supplies for hospitals and clinics in the affected areas.

Support MECA in its mission by visiting the MECA Website

#14 Alliance for Middle East Peace (ALLMEP)

ALLMEP stands as a coalition of over 160 organisations, uniting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and Israelis in the pursuit of cooperation, justice, equality, shared society, mutual understanding, and lasting peace within their communities. Established in 2006 and headquartered in Washington, DC, ALLMEP envisions a Middle East where its community of Palestinian and Israeli peacebuilders takes the lead, guiding their societies toward and beyond sustainable peace. Operated by a diverse team of both Palestinians and Israelis, the Alliance for Middle East Peace is dedicated to assisting families affected by the ongoing conflict on either side. At present, they are actively mobilising emergency funds for NGOs to provide aid to those facing the hardships of the conflict.

Donate to support ALLMEP’s peacebuilding efforts: Donate here

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From the United Nations to non-governmental organizations like CARE International and Physicians for Human Rights, numerous institutions offer early-level programs and positions tailored to young professionals who are eager to make a difference. In the list below we outline 17 International Organizations that offer early career opportunities to recent graduates. Please note that entry requirements may change over time. Always check the official websites to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

#1 UN Young Professionals Programme

For those seeking to enter the UN system, the Young Professionals Programme is a great opportunity. Catered for early-career professionals, the programme provides entry-level positions within the United Nations and is accessible to individuals from countries considered unrepresented or underrepresented at the UN. Annually, the Office of the Secretariat releases a list of participating countries. Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited university, be under 32 years of age, and possess fluency in either French or English. Successful candidates also need to pass a qualifying examination.

To learn more, see the UN YPP website.

#2 United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

If you are an early-career professional, committed to sustainable development, passionate about democratic governance and peacebuilding, or interested in climate and disaster resilience, UNDP might be a place for you. This department of the United Nations offers numerous entry-level opportunities, as well as a Young Professional Officer (JPO) and Specialist Development Programme (SDP) –  young talent programmes. Experience requirements for entry-level positions range from 0 to 3 years depending on the education requirements. While not all positions require a Master’s degree, most necessitate a degree in international development, international affairs, social work, or a related field, unless the opportunity is specific to a job skill such as communications or human resources. Fluency in another language is often a requirement.

Read about the programme here.

#3 European Union (EU)

The European Union (EU), a political and economic union of 27 member states located primarily in Europe facilitates cooperation and coordination among its members in various areas, including trade, security and governance. The EU offers various programs for early-career professionals. Two notable programs are: Blue Book Traineeship: This program offers recent graduates the opportunity to intern in EU institutions and gain first-hand experience in their field of interest. The traineeship typically lasts for about five months. Junior Professional in Delegation (JPD) Program: Aimed at young professionals, this program offers placements in EU delegations worldwide. It provides an opportunity to work on EU development projects and gain insights into diplomatic and international cooperation activities. These programs are excellent entry points for those interested in contributing to the EU’s multifaceted initiatives.

For more information and application details, visit the Blue Book Traineeship and JPD Program websites.

#4 Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)

OSCE provides diverse opportunities for early-career professionals to engage in diplomatic, security, and cooperative efforts on the European stage. The OSCE, as an international organisation, operates across the realms of politics, military, economics, environment, human development, and other critical security and development issues. Spanning 57 participating member states from Europe, North America, and Asia, its primary focus lies in Southeastern Europe, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. For young professionals, the OSCE extends numerous entry-level opportunities, particularly in human security, communications, program development, and program monitoring. While some positions are on a contractual basis, the majority require a bachelor’s degree coupled with work experience or a Master’s degree with up to two years of relevant experience. Certain roles may require specific expertise in professions such as policing, travel coordination, or media. Accessibility to most positions is based on nationality, either to member states or specific countries. Fluency in additional languages is often a prerequisite. Job openings are regularly posted on the OSCE website through their dedicated employment portal.

Explore the OSCE Junior Professional Officer Programme

#5 International Organization for Migration (IOM)

As an intergovernmental organisation, IOM collaborates with governmental, inter-governmental, and non-governmental entities to address migration-related issues in countries and communities worldwide. The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) program is an opportunity to gain first-hand insights into international development and acquire practical experience in the realm of migration. JPO assignments can be fulfilled in IOM country offices worldwide or at the organisation’s headquarters in Geneva. The program serves a dual purpose: it provides international organisations with skilled personnel for two years, while also allowing young, qualified professionals to get valuable work experience enhancing their job prospects. Typically ranging between 28 and 35 years of age, JPOs are recruited as professional staff members at the P-2 level by their respective governments, which act as sponsors for their positions within the Organization.

Learn more about the JPO Program at the IOM Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Program

#6 European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA)

FRA is an independent centre of reference and excellence for promoting and protecting fundamental human rights in the EU. The traineeship scheme at FRA targets recent university graduates, aiming to provide them with practical experience and understanding of the agency’s role in upholding fundamental rights across the EU. It offers opportunities to work in a diverse environment, promoting mutual understanding and European values. Trainees are encouraged to apply their knowledge and skills acquired during their studies, introducing them to the professional world while contributing to the agency’s mission of ensuring fundamental rights for all in the EU. To be eligible for a traineeship, you must have completed your most recent studies no more than three years before the deadline for applications.

For more information, consult the FRA Traineeship page.

#7 World Health Organization (WHO)

The WHO provides internships and the Young Professionals Program for those interested in global health and development. The Young Professionals Program assigns individuals to regular WHO positions, offering immersion in technical work, career support, networking, mentoring, and tailored learning opportunities. The program aims to increase representation from Least Developed Countries, developing capacity through a structured curriculum.

Information about the programme is available on the WHO YPP website.

#8 African Development Bank (AfDB)

The African Development Bank (AfDB) aims to support sustainable economic development and social progress in African countries. Comprising the AfDB, the African Development Fund (ADF), and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF), the AfDB Group focuses on five strategic priorities: feeding Africa, electrifying and powering Africa, industrializing Africa, integrating Africa, and enhancing the quality of life for the continent’s people.AfDB’s Young Professionals Program and Internship Program cater to individuals passionate about driving development in Africa. Aspiring professionals interested in contributing to Africa’s development can explore the Young Professionals Program and Internship opportunities at the AfDB. These programs provide a platform for individuals committed to positive global change.

For detailed information and current opportunities, visit the AfDB YPP page.

#9 Amnesty International

Amnesty International, with its global and vocal presence in human rights advocacy, offers internships, entry-level positions, and volunteer opportunities. The organisation regularly employs human rights professionals in various capacities, such as campaigners, researchers, communication officers, or coordinators. Amnesty International’s job board categorises vacancies into Global Fundraising and Engagement, Global Operations, International Law and Policy, People and Services, and Research. Entry-level positions typically require a minimum of one or two years of professional experience.

Check the Amnesty International Careers page for the latest opportunities.

#10 Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch, known for its impactful human rights-related work, offers fellowship programs, internships, and entry-level positions. The organisation broadly categorises vacancies as Professional/Managerial, Early Career, Fellowship, and Internship/Volunteering. Entry-level positions typically require 1 to 2 years of related experience. Human Rights Watch also offers fellowship programs each year, providing hands-on experience and training for new human rights professionals.

Explore opportunities on the Human Rights Watch Jobs page.

#11 International Service for Human Rights (ISHR)

ISHR’s Human Rights Defender Advocacy Program, internships, and fellowships are designed for early-career professionals dedicated to human rights causes. ISHR offers programs that provide hands-on experience and advocacy opportunities for individuals passionate about human rights. Whether through internships, fellowships, or specific programs, ISHR’s initiatives aim to empower early-career professionals in the field of human rights.

Explore opportunities on the ISHR Human Rights Defender Advocacy Program page.

#12 CARE International

CARE International, working globally to save lives and achieve social justice, offers opportunities in human rights and humanitarian work. With a focus on defeating poverty and achieving social justice, CARE International provides a platform for individuals committed to positive global change.

Explore opportunities on the CARE International Job Search page for positions in human rights and humanitarian work.

#13 Physicians for Human Rights (PHR)

Physicians for Human Rights (PHR), operating for over 30 years, employs science and medicine to expose mass atrocities and severe human rights abuses. Recognized with a Nobel Peace Prize for its role in banning landmines, PHR believes health professionals possess unique skills to advocate against such violations. Through a network of forensic and public health experts, PHR documents atrocities, safeguards persecuted health workers and facilities, prevents torture, and holds perpetrators accountable. Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) has been at the forefront of leveraging science and medicine for over 30 years to document and draw attention to mass atrocities and severe human rights violations.

PHR offers a range of opportunities, including internships, fellowships, and entry-level positions, for individuals with a background in health and human rights. To explore these opportunities, visit the PHR Jobs page.

#14 United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)

The United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation offers the Junior Professional Officer program for individuals who have recently graduated from college and for young professionals who wish to begin working in civil service. Participants receive contracts for 2 to 3 years to work at the headquarters of the United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation or in a regional office. To be considered for a position, individuals must be under 32 years of age and have at least a bachelor’s degree in education, culture, science, social and human sciences or communications. Fluency in English or French and being a resident of a donor country is also required.

Visit the Junior Professional Officer website.

The United Nations Economic, Social and Cultural Organisation offers the Young Professionals Program to allow individuals from non-United Nations member states and under-represented member states to gain entry-level employment in civil service. Every year, the UN publishes a list of qualifying countries. Applicants must be at most 32 years of age and hold a graduate-level degree in management, education, culture, science, social and human sciences or communication. Fluency in English or French is required. Individuals who have previous work experience and who are also fluent in Spanish, Russian, Arabic or Chinese will have an advantage.

Visit the Young Professionals Program website.

#15 United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees offers the Junior Professional Officer Program for individuals interested in working in civil service at the United Nations refugee agency. To be considered for a position, individuals must be between 25 and 35 years of age and have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a field that relates to the specific opening for which they are applying. Those with a master’s degree must also have 2 years of relevant work experience. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree must have 4 years of related work experience. Fluency in English is required. Applicants who are also fluent in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish are preferred. Candidates must also be from one of the countries that donate to the agency.

Read more on the UNHCR JPO website.

#16 United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF)

The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund offers the Junior Professional Officers program for young people who are interested in working in a non-profit. Initially, individuals in the program receive 1-to-2-year contracts with the chance for renewal. About half of all participants advance to other positions with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund. Most applicants accepted are between 28 and 35 years of age and have advanced university degrees. To be considered for a position, individuals must be from one of the fund’s donor countries.

See the UNICEF Junior Professional Officer website.

#17 World Food Program (WFP)

The World Food Program offers the Junior Professional Officer Program to allow young professionals the opportunity to gain work experience in civil service. Candidates must be less than 32 to 35 years of age, depending on what country they are from. A master’s degree in a relevant field and 3 to 4 years of professional work experience are also required. Applicants must also be fluent in English, Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish. A noteworthy outcome is that a significant number of JPO staff who serve with IOM continue their engagement with the organisation beyond the completion of their JPO assignment.

For more information consult the WFP Junior Professional Officer page.

The post 17 International Organizations Offering Early-Career Opportunities appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Women’s rights have improved over the years, but continued progress is not guaranteed. In a time of escalating conflicts, rising authoritarianism and devastating climate change impacts, women face many issues related to education, work, healthcare, legal rights, violence and much more. By understanding these issues, the world can work together to achieve gender equality, stronger human rights protections and safety for all people. In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the most important issues affecting women and girls today.

#1. Unequal pay

For centuries, society has undervalued the work women perform. Women are even paid less than men for the same work. According to the International Labour Organization, there has been some progress, but gender wage gaps still exist and are widening in certain jobs. Gaps can’t be blamed on educational differences, which means that in most countries, men still earn more than women. Factors include gendered job segregation (women tend to dominate jobs with lower salaries) and unjust pay practices. According to data from Moody’s Analytics, the gender pay gap could be costing the economy as much as $7 trillion.

#2. Racial injustice

All women face discrimination, but women belonging to ethnic minorities face compounded inequalities. According to expert groups like the UN, race and gender intersect in employment, housing, poverty and more. As an example, while no group of women makes the same wage as non-Hispanic white men in the United States, the gender wage gap is significantly wider for most women of color. Over a 40-year career, Hispanic women lose over $1 million in earnings, while Native women lose $986,000 and Black women lose $964,000.

#3. Gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to acts that cause (or are likely to cause) physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women. According to experts, over ⅓ of women and girls experience some kind of violence during their lifetimes. The risk increases during conflicts, natural disasters and other emergencies. Intimate partner violence is the most common form of GBV. Around 1 in 4 women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner. While anyone can experience GBV, young people, older women, refugees, ethnic minorities and LGBTQ+ people are most vulnerable.

#4. Inadequate healthcare

Healthcare access is a human right, but women face unique stigmas and discrimination. According to the World Economic Forum, there are persistent gaps in research and treatment for things affecting women, such as maternal healthcare. This leads to worse health outcomes for conditions that should be treatable and preventable. Women are also undervalued in the healthcare profession. According to reporting from NPR, women hold just 25% of senior leadership roles despite making up 70% of the global healthcare workforce. The pandemic also increased burnout rates for women healthcare workers, added to their workloads and exacerbated gender biases.

#5. Threats to reproductive rights

According to the Center for Reproductive Rights, 40% of women live under restrictive laws, which represents over 750 million women of reproductive age. 6% of women live in countries where abortions are prohibited completely. Access to contraception increased from 900 million in 2000 to almost 1.1 billion in 2021, but barriers like misinformation about contraception, fear of side effects and access remain. According to the UN Populations Fund, around 257 million women who don’t want to become pregnant still aren’t using safe and modern contraception.

#6. Lack of education

All children deserve access to education, but girls have historically faced more discrimination. Progress has been made, but according to UNICEF, 129 million girls are still not in school. Reasons include poverty, gender-based violence, early marriage and a lack of safety, hygiene and sanitation resources. Low-income countries have the widest gaps, according to the World Bank. While the world average of girls enrolled in primary school is 88%, it’s 78% in low-income countries.

#7. Food insecurity

Women face more food insecurity than men, Research from the World Food Programme identifies a few reasons why. The first is that women are more likely to live in extreme poverty. Globally, women earn just 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. Women also face unequal treatment during times of crisis and are more vulnerable to malnutrition during pregnancy. All these factors contribute to a lack of food security, which in turn negatively impacts other areas of a woman’s life.

#8. Climate change

Research consistently shows that women are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. One reason is that women depend on natural resources, so during times of famine or other disasters, women face the added burden of trying to obtain food. In lower-income countries, women also make up a large percentage of the agriculture industry, which is hardest hit by climate change. Women also face increased risks of violence and sexual exploitation during climate-related emergencies.

#9. Unequal political representation

Society can’t achieve gender equality until there’s equal political representation. According to a survey conducted by Plan International, women still feel “consistently excluded” from politics. Half of the survey participants lived in communities where they felt like it wasn’t okay for girls and young women to be involved in politics. 19% said they had been actively discouraged from getting involved. The UN estimates that it will take 130 years for the world to reach gender equality in the highest positions of power.

#10. Discriminatory social institutions

Social institutions are the laws (formal and informal), norms and standards that determine how society functions. Unfortunately, gender inequality is embedded into just about every country’s social institutions in one way or another. According to the OECD, many countries have instituted legal reforms that untangle gender discrimination from their institutions, but 40% of women and girls still live in countries with “high or very high” discrimination. Social norms have progressed the best, but economic empowerment got worse between 2014 and 2022. Until discriminatory practices are eliminated, gender inequality will persist.

#11. Human trafficking

All genders can be victims of human trafficking, but women and girls are especially vulnerable. According to research from 2017, girls and women made up 71% of all victims of trafficking. They also make up 96% of the victims trafficked for sexual exploitation. Causes of gendered trafficking include poverty, a lack of employment opportunities for women, limited access to education and gender-based violence. Conflict also makes women more vulnerable.

#12. Limited freedom of movement

Freedom of movement is an individual’s right to live, travel and move within a country or between different countries. According to Human Rights Watch, many countries in the Middle East and North Africa still have laws requiring women to get permission from a male guardian before traveling abroad or even traveling within their own country. This violates a woman’s right to travel and increases her risk for exploitation and abuse. Activists had been fighting for more rights for years, and while some progress has been made, restrictive laws remain.

#13. Threats during migration

Migration – forced and voluntary – can be risky. Women face more threats than men due to discrimination, gender-based violence and sexual exploitation. According to the International Organization for Migration, more women are migrating independently, especially from the Caribbean and Central America. While moving can provide opportunities, it’s also dangerous. Displacement, which can be caused by conflict and climate change, is especially dangerous for women who are traveling alone, pregnant, heads of households, disabled, or older.

#14. Discrimination based on disability

Human Rights Watch estimates there are around 300 million women with mental and physical disabilities. In low and middle-income countries, women represent 75% of people with disabilities. Women are more likely than men to become disabled and face increased discrimination due to the intersection of their gender and disability. According to research, women with disabilities are more than 2.5 times more likely to experience sexual abuse by an intimate partner than women who don’t have disabilities.

#15. Poor mental health

The state of mental health can be difficult to measure, but according to data, more women are diagnosed with mental health conditions. In a 2017 report from the UK, women are three times more likely than men to experience common mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Young women are also more likely to experience anxiety-related conditions than any other population. This disparity could be due to stigma, as men may feel less comfortable seeking help. In the United States, while more men die by suicide, more women attempt to take their own lives.

#16. The digital divide

Access to technology increases a person’s opportunities for employment, education, public resources, and more. Women don’t get equal access. According to UNICEF, up to 90% of girls and young women in low-income countries can’t access the internet, compared to 78% of boys and young men. Girls also have weaker digital skills and less access to mobile phones. This inequality disadvantages women and costs the global economy billions of dollars in GDP every year, according to the World Economic Forum.

#17. Online harassment

Online harassment is hard to measure, but there’s little doubt it disproportionately affects women and girls. According to one study from Europe, women are 27 times more likely to experience online harassment than men. Online harassment has a terrorizing effect which damages a person’s mental health, discourages them from spending time online and frightens them away from other public spaces. Online harassment can also translate into real-life violence.

#18. Unpaid labor

Women aren’t only paid less than men in most places; they also take on more unpaid labor. Globally, women take on three times more unpaid work than men, while women in low and middle-income countries do more unpaid labor than their peers in high-income countries. Unpaid labor includes tasks like household chores and caring for family members. In Japan, women lose around $761 billion a year through unpaid tasks, while men take on less than a third of what women do. Consequences aren’t limited to the economy. According to research, the added burden of unpaid labor is associated with worse mental health in women.

#19. Inadequate maternal healthcare

Pregnancy and childbirth are inherently risky, but maternal healthcare is inadequate for many people. According to the WHO, almost 800 women died in 2020 from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. A striking 95% of these maternal deaths occurred in low and middle-income countries. 75% of deaths result from issues like severe bleeding, high blood pressure, infections and complications from delivery. These conditions are preventable and manageable with the proper care.

#20. Period poverty

Periods are a fact of life for many people, but about 500 million women and girls don’t have the supplies they need, according to the OHCHR. “Period poverty” is defined as a lack of access to products, hygienic spaces, education and other resources. Along with feeling ashamed or embarrassed, a girl may experience violations of her human rights when her period comes. Early marriage, sexual violence, unintended pregnancy and disrupted education are some of the more serious effects.

The post Top 20 Issues Women Are Facing Today appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

“NGO” stands for “nongovernmental organization.” The United Nations Charter, written in 1945, was the first document to include the term. While vague, the text established NGOs as nonprofit groups independent from governments. Today, the term NGO has an even more flexible meaning, but nongovernmental organizations play a vital role in today’s world. They’re dedicated to causes like fighting poverty, achieving gender equality, preserving natural habitats and much more. In this article, we’ll describe 15 of the biggest NGOs in the UK, which is home to some of the world’s oldest and largest charities.

#1. Amnesty International

Headquartered in London, Amnesty International is a global nongovernmental advocacy organization. It was founded in 1961 to support political prisoners, but it has since expanded to promote awareness of all human rights. Areas of focus include armed conflict, child rights, the death penalty, torture and police brutality. The NGO works through research, advocacy and lobbying, and campaigns and action. As an international organization, Amnesty International works in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe and Central Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa. Information on current campaigns, donations, volunteer opportunities and careers can be found on the website.

#2. Anti-Slavery International

Founded in 1839, Anti-Slavery International (then called the Anti-Slavery Society) was the project of abolitionists committed to ending slavery worldwide. While the Transatlantic slave trade is over, modern slavery remains a persistent problem. Anti-Slavery International works to free everyone from slavery by raising awareness, acting as an ally to survivors and those at risk of slavery, and working on laws, policies and practices that keep everyone safe from slavery. Its 5-year priority areas include ending child and youth slavery, responsible business, migration and trafficking, and slavery and the environment. The NGO focuses on capacity building, collaboration, learning and influencing. You can find more information on impact, accountability and ways to take action on the website.

#3. British Heart Foundation

The British Heart Foundation is a cardiovascular research charity. It funds around £100 million in research every year, making it the largest independent funder of research in this field. Its goal is to reduce deaths caused by heart and circulatory diseases by more than half. By 2030, the NGO hopes to see advances across diseases, including better prevention and better, longer lives for those with existing conditions. To learn more about the foundation’s work, visit its website for resources on donations, careers and other ways to take action.

NGOs address issues like poverty, gender inequality, climate change and more. Here are 15 examples of the social issues facing the UK.

#4. British Red Cross

The British Red Cross Society is the UK’s branch of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. In the UK, the NGO offers mobility support, cost of living support, refugee services, UK emergencies and international services. It also conducts research, advocacy and education. The Red Cross also operates charity shops and an online store. Visit the NGO’s website to learn more about donations, fundraising, volunteering and jobs.

#5. ChildHope

Established in 1989, ChildHope works toward a world where children are free from abuse and injustice. Priorities include street-connected children, child labor, modern slavery, early marriage, gender equality and so on. Its projects focus on improving math education, harnessing community action to fight against trafficking, and providing water sanitation and hygiene. The NGO’s approach is based in local partnerships and collaboration. To learn more about ChildHope’s work, leadership and finances, visit the website.

#6. Equal Rights Trust

Established in 2007, The Equal Rights Trust fights discrimination and promotes equality as a basic human right and principle of social justice. In 2008, the NGO worked with 128 experts from over 40 countries to launch the Declaration of Principles on Equality. Since then, the NGO has conducted research and established projects that support civil society movements. According to its website, the Equal Rights Trust is the only international organization focused exclusively on the right to equality. It has identified four gaps in protection, implementation, application and practice that must be addressed. You can find information on donations, partners and opportunities on the NGO’s website, as well as reports and a copy of the Declaration of Principles on Equality.

Check out our article on 10 online courses on fighting inequality and discrimination.

#7. Macmillan Cancer Support

In 1911, after his father died of cancer, Douglas Macmillan founded the Society for the Prevention and Relief of Cancer. The organization has changed its name a few times – it became Macmillan Cancer Support in 2006 – but its mission has remained consistent. It provides practical, emotional, physical and financial support, raises money, runs advocacy campaigns, performs research and much more. In 2022, the NGO reached around 2 million people living with cancer and raised more than £221. The website offers reports, resources and information on jobs.

#8. National Alliance of Women’s Organisatons

The National Alliance of Women’s Organisatons (NAWO) was founded in 1989. It’s an umbrella organization under which 100 organizations and individuals work to ensure women’s access to their human rights. Membership includes specialist organizations, faith groups, health centers, arts organizations and more. The group uses a Four Nations approach, performs research on the best strategies, builds alliances and works with young women to develop a Young Women’s Alliance. Information on the group’s members, campaigns and reports can be found on the website.

#9. Oxfam UK

Established in 1942, Oxfam is a British-founded confederation of 21 independent charities focused on ending global poverty. Priority areas include climate change, women’s rights, water, food and emergencies. Oxfam UK was also home to many charity shops, though many have closed following a sexual abuse scandal. The shops have traditionally offered a variety of goods like clothing and books. Its current campaigns focus on climate justice, a call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, and equality. Information on donations, Oxfam’s work and impact can be found on the charity’s website.

Check out our article in 5 essays about poverty.

#10. Save the Children

Established in 1919, the UK-founded Save the Children Fund works to improve the lives of children around the world. It operates around the world on priorities like education, health, hunger, children’s rights and emergencies. Through its programs and over 600,000 supporters, it’s helped 45 million kids across the 115 countries it works in. The organization also has general consultative status in the United Nations Economic and Social Council. You can visit the website to learn more about the NGO’s impact, finances and donation opportunities.

#11. SolarAid

Founded in 2006, SolarAid is a London-based international charity working to fight poverty and climate change. Through its social enterprise, SunnyMoney, it provides access to solar lights in Zambia and Malawi. The charity also has partner organizations in Uganda and Senegal. Because of this approach, the money is reinvested back into SolarAid’s work and the local economy. Agents reach rural communities with safe, affordable, and clean solar lights, which can replace candles and kerosene lamps. SolarAid has distributed 2.3 million worldwide, reached 12 million people with light and averted 2.4M tonnes of C02 from the atmosphere. Learn more about the charity’s impact, partnerships and careers on the website.

#12. The Aegis Trust

The Aegis Trust campaigns to prevent genocides around the world. It’s based at the UK’s National Holocaust Centre but has its largest presence in Rwanda, where it established the Kigali Genocide Memorial. In the UK, the trust provides the secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Genocide Prevention. Other activities include research, evidence-based policy and advocacy, genocide remembrance, education and more. Its website offers educational resources and ways to get involved.

#13. The Refugee Council

The UK-based Refugee Council works with asylum seekers and refugees. Every year, the NGO works with over 13,000 women, men and children seeking safety in the UK. Its services include crisis advice, mental health counseling and practical support. The Refugee Council also advocates on behalf of asylum seekers and refugees. Its research examines emerging issues, provides evidence for change and works with decision-makers to influence policy. Supporters can participate in campaigns, donate money, organize fundraisers and so on. The charity’s website also offers information for those seeking assistance.

#14. WaterAid

Established in 1981, WaterAid is a UK-based international nonprofit working to make clean water, good toilets and good hygiene accessible to everyone. With supporters and partners, the NGO has reached almost 30 million people with clean water, 30 million with decent toilets, and over 20 million with good hygiene. Water, sanitation and hygiene affect – and are affected by – issues like climate change and gender inequality, so WaterAid also works on climate justice and empowering women and girls. Visit WaterAid’s website to learn more about how to get involved.

#15. The World Wide Fund for Nature

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), which is a Swiss-based environmental charity, works to preserve nature and reduce the human impact on the environment. For more than 60 years, WWF has worked with communities, governments, companies and individuals to tackle climate change, create a sustainable food system and restore threatened habitats. In the UK, the WWF has the Living Planet Centre, which its website says is one of the greenest buildings in the nation. You can learn more about the charity’s work, impact, leadership and careers on its website.

Interested in learning more about environmental issues? Here’s our article on 20 of the most important ones.

The post The Biggest 15 NGOs in the UK appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

NGOs (nongovernmental organizations) serve millions – if not billions – of people each year. These organizations, which are independent of governments, work on ending poverty, protecting kids, improving food security, providing healthcare, achieving gender equality and much more. Many NGOs are international. Australia, which is home to over 26 million people, has many NGOs based in or conducting activities within its borders. Here are 15 of the biggest examples:

 #1. Action on Poverty

Founded in 1968 by an Australian actress and Marist priest, Action on Poverty reaches millions through its programs, global network and local organizations. It currently works in 14 countries addressing climate resilience, food and water security, governance and social accountability, gender equality, livelihoods and economic empowerment, and health. The NGO connects philanthropists, corporations, other non-profits and innovators with developing communities and local NGOs. The organization is fully accredited with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Evaluations on various projects can be found on the NGO’s website, alongside information on donations, volunteer opportunities and careers.

What is poverty? Read our article to learn what poverty is, its causes, and how you can take action.

#2. Amnesty International Australia

Amnesty International, which is based in the UK, has organizations around the world, including in Australia. The NGO was founded in 1961 and has grown into one of the world’s largest advocacy organizations. It has several campaigns addressing areas like refugee rights, climate justice, child rights, the death penalty and much more. Amnesty’s “Write For Rights” campaign, which is the NGO’s flagship letter-writing campaign, has been in operation for over two decades.

#3. Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC)

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) began in 2001. Once a student-run and community-funded food bank, ASRC has grown into an independent, community-led organization. It’s now the largest human rights organization supporting people seeking asylum in Australia. Its 40 programs address food and material aid, healthcare, support services, legal aid, education and training, and more. Thanks to community support, staff and volunteers, the Centre helps around 7,000 people each year. As an independent organization, ASRC does not accept government funds.

#4. Australian Human Rights Commission

The Australian Human Rights Commission is a bit different from the other organizations on this list because it was established by an act of Federal Parliament. Despite this, it is an independent, third-party organization. As Australia’s National Human Rights Institution, its work includes investigating and conciliating discrimination and human rights complaints, providing guidelines to employers, advocating to the government and others for human rights, and providing legal advice. They also promote human rights through training and education, events and discussion, media outreach, digital resources and social media communication.

#5. Australian Red Cross

The Australian Red Cross is part of a worldwide humanitarian aid network that reaches millions of people each year through National Societies. The Australian Branch of the British Red Cross Society was founded in 1914 after WWI began. Australia was recognized as its own national society in 1927. The organization mobilizes during natural disasters, war and other emergencies. The website offers resources for students, parents, educators, businesses and journalists, as well as information on how to become an Australian Red Cross member, how to donate, and how to volunteer.

You may also like: Global Health and Humanitarianism (Online Course)

#6. Australia for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTAR)

Australia for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTAR) describes itself as a “trusted Ally and Thought Leader” that offers information on First Nations rights and works for First Nations rights and justice. Since 1927, the organization has campaigned on key issues for First Nations people and communities, such as truth-telling, cultural heritage, justice, racism, voice and more. The NGO’s ultimate goal is creating a just Australia where the rights of First Peoples are “recognized, respected and enjoyed.” ANTAR is a non-partisan, independent non-profit affiliated with a national network of state and territory groups.

#7. CARE Australia

CARE Australia is an international humanitarian aid NGO focused on ending global poverty and addressing the needs of women and girls. It’s been operating for over 70 years across 94 countries. In 2019-2019, CARE Australia helped over 2.7 million people across 25 countries and responded to 14 emergencies across 21 countries. Because women and girls are among the most vulnerable groups in the world, CARE works to empower them through healthcare, education, employment and so on. The organization prioritizes good governance, disability inclusion, climate change resilience, and lessons and impact.

#8. Caritas Australia

Caritas Australia is an aid agency of the Australian Catholic Church. It focuses on eradicating poverty and injustice. The NGO is a member of Caritas Internationalis, which is one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world. Through locally-led programs, the NGO responds to emergencies, provides education, implements sustainable development, advocates for fair policies and addresses water sanitation issues. Its website offers resources and toolkits for schools, parishes, individuals, corporations, philanthropists and others. The NGO’s work is based on courage, compassion, stewardship and partnership.

#9. ChildFund Australia

ChildFund Australia is an independent international development NGO focused on children and young people. It’s part of the ChildFund Alliance, which is a global network of 11 organizations assisting almost 36 million kids and families in 70 countries. Its programs address child safety, education, public health, food security, empowerment and much more. ChildFund Australia is a member of the Australian Council for International Development, a signatory to the ACFID Code of Conduct and the ACFID Fundraising Charter, and a member of Accountable Now, which is a platform committed to transparency and impact. The organization used to employ child sponsorship as a strategy but is now transitioning to different methods.

Interested in learning more about NGOs that protect children’s rights? Here’s our article on 11 organizations offering children’s rights jobs.

#10. Human Rights Law Centre

The Human Rights Law Centre is an independent organization dedicated to human rights. Using strategic legal action, advocacy and policy solutions, the NGO works to end inequalities and injustice in Australia. Its impact areas include protecting democratic freedoms, partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, promoting the rights of asylum-seekers and refugees, and strengthening the legal and institutional protection of human rights. The Centre takes on a few cases each year, which are developed with other organizations according to the Centre’s strategic priorities. You can find resources on the website, such as reports and explainers, as well as information about donations, careers and volunteer opportunities.

You may also like: International Human Rights Law (Online Course)

#11. Oaktree

Oaktree is a youth-run organization focused on empowering kids to make an impact in their communities and the world. The NGO does this by providing resources, connecting youth-led organizations, advocating and campaigning for sustainable development and children’s rights, and providing skill-building opportunities for kids. Through the Oaktree Youth Solidarity Fund, Oaktree partners with youth-led organizations from across the Asia-Pacific region. Every year, Oaktree selects members based on the project they want to run. Members are given flexible grants and become part of the OYSF Network. In 2022, the fund launched with five partners who met through the year to share skills and support one another. Oaktree is a member of the Australian Council for International Development.

#12. Oxfam Australia

Oxfam Australia is part of Oxfam International, one of the world’s largest anti-poverty organizations. With partners, allies, communities and supporters, Oxfam Australia uses a human rights-based approach to development. Its priority areas include climate change, gender equality, economic inequality, humanitarian aid, safety and First Peoples justice. In 2021-2022, Oxfam Australia helped over 14 million people in crisis, raised more than $1.3 million through Trailwalker, and raised more than $30,000 at the NGO’s annual Comedy Gala. Oxfam Australia’s website offers impact reports and information on donations, volunteering and careers.

#13. Partners in Aid

Established in 1962, Partners in Aid provides support for communities in countries like India, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Once focused on shipping livestock, the organization has since expanded to community health and economic development. Today, Partners in Aid partners with the All Bengal Women’s Union and Social Education and Development Society in India; the Singanpad Association in the Philippines; and Y Gro in Sri Lanka. The website offers detailed reports on the NGO’s projects, as well as resources and information on membership, donations, careers and volunteering.

#14. Refugee Migrant Children Centre (RMCC)

The Refugee Migrant Children Centre supports school-aged kids from refugee and migrant backgrounds as they begin a life in Australia. RMCC partners with schools that have large numbers of kids from migrant and refugee backgrounds. They host after-school programs, which makes it convenient for kids to attend and strengthens communities. Programs are specialized and co-designed with the kids and families RMCC serves. Examples include after-school mentoring programs for secondary-school and primary-school students, school holiday programs, a supporting prep program, and educational material aid. RMCC also runs programs online and works with support services and local councils. You can find more information about donations, volunteer opportunities, and careers on the NGO’s website.

Australia is facing many social issues. Here are 15 of the most important examples.

#15. Transform Aid International

Transform Aid International is an anti-poverty Christian organization partnering with other Christian organizations around the world. It works with 36 in-country project partners in 20 countries through Baptist World Aid, which is supported by Australians. The NGO’s goal is to build leadership and capacity at a grassroots level. Partners and alliances include ACFID, Integral Alliance and the Australian government. You can find policies, documents, career, and board member information on the NGO’s website.

The post The 15 Biggest NGOs in Australia appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, the significance of understanding and addressing pressing social issues cannot be overstated. To navigate this complex terrain, we have curated a list of 40 courses that delve into crucial topics shaping the world in 2024. From climate change to migration, each course offers comprehensive insights, empowering learners to contribute meaningfully to positive societal change.

#1 Climate Change

The impacts of climate change are far-reaching. They affect our health, livelihoods, economic systems, and overall well-being. Vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected, disease patterns are altered, people are forced to leave uninhabitable areas, food shortages are on the rise and conflicts erupt. Those most affected contribute the least to climate change. With 2023 being the hottest year on record, 2024 could become even worse. The need for bold and fast collective action is evident. The courses below look at different dimensions of climate change from the science behind it to the ways to take action.

#2 Racism

Racism involves the systemic discrimination, prejudice, and unequal treatment of individuals or groups based on their race or ethnicity within society. It extends beyond individual attitudes and encompasses institutional and structural practices that perpetuate inequality.  Examples include biased hiring practices, discriminatory housing policies, laws that favor one group over the other. According to a survey with people of African descent that was conducted by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency , 45% of respondents experienced racism in the past 5 years. People who are victims of racism often experience limited access to social, economic, and political opportunities. Racism is bad for every society and it often leads to unjust arrests, harassment and violence. The courses below explore different aspects of racism, from its history and root causes, to identifying racism and ways to take action against it.

#3 Poverty 

Poverty is a social issue that significantly affects individuals, families, and communities. It often arises from systemic and structural factors within society and is exacerbated by global crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic, wars and climate change. Poverty often has severe impacts on all areas of life including access to education, healthcare, employment and housing. According to estimates by the UN, 670 million people are facing extreme poverty today. The courses below look at different aspects of poverty in a national, regional and international context. You will learn about the root causes and key factors, hardships people living in poverty are experiencing, and the tools and strategies you can use to take action.

#4 Healthcare

The way healthcare is organized, funded, and distributed within a society has profound implications for the overall health of its population. Marginalized communities often experience healthcare disparities and face barriers to accessing essential medical care. According to the World Health Organization, half of the world lacks access to essential health services. Disadvantaged neighborhoods lack adequate healthcare infrastructure. High healthcare costs exacerbate poverty. The courses below look at healthcare issues from a variety of perspectives including health inequalities and healthcare advocacy.

#5 Migration / Refugee Rights

According to UNHCR, the global refugee population reached 36.4 million at mid-2023, an increase of 3 per cent from the end of 2022. Moreover, 117 million people were forcibly displaced or stateless in 2023. 52% of all refugees originated from Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine. Addressing the social aspects of migration involves providing support for refugees and displaced populations, addressing their basic needs, and promoting social stability. In their new homes, migrants often face discrimination, xenophobia, and unequal treatment, requiring efforts to address underlying social prejudices. The courses below tackle various aspects of migration, from global facts and figures to specific case studies.

#6 Child Rights

Child rights revolve around the recognition and protection of the fundamental rights and well-being of children within a society. Ensuring the rights of children is not only a moral imperative but also crucial for building a just, equitable, and sustainable society. More than 1 billion children are estimated to experience physical, sexual or emotional violence every year. In places where human rights are neglected or oppressed, children often suffer the most. They are especially vulnerable to hazards during times of crises. The courses below are free to audit, you can choose to obtain a verified certificate for an extra fee.

#7 Gender Equality

Gender equality seeks to eliminate discrimination, biases, and stereotypes. It seeks to promote fairness and equal opportunities for everyone. Despite more efforts in recent years, many inequalities persist. In fact, progress has been marginal since 2015. Women are still getting paid less than men for the same work, they are frequently subjected to intimate partner violence and are deprived of their bodily autonomy. The first step to change is education. Below are several courses that focus on a broad or more specific aspect of gender equality and the ways how we can create change.

#8 Social Justice

Social justice refers to the fair and just distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society. It involves recognizing and addressing the inequalities and injustices that exist based on factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, disability, and other characteristics. The goal of social justice is to create a society where all individuals have equal access to opportunities, rights, and resources. Social justice is multifaceted and intersectional. Because of that, the courses below look at how social justice connects with issues such as feminism, communities, love and energy.

#9 Mental Health 

Mental Health has profound implications for individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole. According to the NHS, in 2023, about 1 in 5 children and young people aged 8 to 25 years had a probable mental disorder. Covid-19 and its consequences further exacerbated the situation. Learning more about mental health, its signs and symptoms, is crucial to address it. The courses below look at different aspects of mental health from well-being and resilience, to mindfulness and positive thinking.

#10 Clean Water

We all depend on clean water. Without it we get severely ill or die. With the effects of climate change, water is getting more scarce and less available in many regions of the world. According to World Vision more than 770 million people lack access to safe water. Access alone isn’t enough. Women and girls spend 200 million hours per day carrying water. Moreover, almost 500 million people are forced to defecate in the open and 1.69 billion don’t have access to adequate sanitation. The courses below look at various aspects of water access, laws and distribution, from urban water systems to current environmental policies.

Note: If you would like to obtain a certificate in more than one course, you might want want to consider a Coursera plus subscription. Make sure the courses you want to take are included. You can check here. As of January 2024 the subscription is available at a discount.

The post 40 Top-Rated Social Issues Courses to Study in 2024 appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Prejudice fuels the unfair and unequal treatment of people around the world, and while we may hope we don’t hold prejudiced views, it’s common to see others differently based on their ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion and so on. Acknowledging this fact – and working to reduce prejudice – is the best way forward. In this article, we’ll explore what prejudice is, how it works and what it looks like.

Prejudice refers to negative feelings, attitudes and beliefs toward individuals and groups based on preconceived notions about ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, age, religion and much more.

What is prejudice?

The word “prejudice” has origins in Latin for “before” and “judgment.” It describes unfavorable feelings toward individuals or groups based on preconceived notions of their ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, age, disability, religion and other characteristics. While every individual is distinct, prejudice lumps all members of a group or classification together.

There are a few theories about why prejudice exists and how it works: social identity theory, realistic conflict theory, scapegoating theory, authoritarian personality theory and culture theory.

Social identity theory

According to social identity theory, people always organize themselves into groups they belong to and groups they don’t belong to. This categorization boosts a person’s self-esteem. Finding community with a group is not wrong, but many people end up looking down on those they deem outside their groups. They may exhibit prejudice.

Realistic conflict theory

This theory focuses on limited resources and what happens when people compete for them. When resources are few and far between, people engage in more conflict. This increases negative feelings and attitudes between competing groups. The theory applies even when a lack of resources is conceptual. As an example, while social status and political power are intangible, people tend to believe there’s only so much to go around.

Scapegoating theory

When individuals or communities experience challenges, they may direct blame to an innocent party. This is known as “scapegoating.” As an example, when it comes to unemployment, immigrants are often scapegoated in the United States. “They’re taking our jobs!” is a common phrase linked to prejudice. Scapegoats tend to be already marginalized and stereotyped groups.

Authoritarian personality theory

This theory wonders if certain people are predisposed to authoritarianism. They tend to be more trusting and respectful of authority figures, and more likely to not question that authority. They exhibit strict, inflexible views of the world and strongly dislike uncertainty or nuance. Because this personality type is so black-and-white, they could be more susceptible to prejudice, as well, since prejudicial views are also clear-cut. They’re also more vulnerable to prejudicial propaganda created by authority figures.

Culture theory 

The culture theory of prejudice theorizes that prejudice is deeply rooted in society. It passes from generation to generation, sustaining itself through stereotypes, institutional discrimination and community beliefs. If someone is surrounded by friends and family who exhibit prejudicial views, they’re more likely to develop and express similar views. What’s considered “normal” or “acceptable” varies from group to group, but the desire to belong encourages people to believe or behave in similar ways.

Many people are unaware of the prejudiced views they hold. Here are ten examples of unconscious bias.

What five facts should everyone know about prejudice?

Prejudice is complicated because people are complicated, but there are certain facts that can help you understand how these feelings work.

#1. Prejudice may serve a biological purpose

There’s lots of research about how prejudices like racism and sexism are taught, and while that’s true, the mechanisms of prejudice may be hard-wired in the human brain. As a blog on The Conversation explains, prejudice may have evolved because, in the past, it helped us avoid danger. How? At its core, prejudice is about quickly associating something – like a visual cue or a sound – with a certain meaning. As an example, our ancestors had to deal with predators on a regular basis, so certain cues always signaled danger. If we were met with something unfamiliar, it was safer to assume the new thing was dangerous. Unfortunately, our brain doesn’t always make correct judgments, which leads to prejudices related to ethnicity, gender, and other characteristics.

#2. You can unlearn prejudice

While the tendency to be prejudiced may be the result of evolution, it doesn’t mean we’re all doomed to think prejudiced thoughts forever. The first step is being aware of our biases and prejudices. Next, research shows prejudices can be reduced when people from different groups interact with each other. Contact reveals the inaccuracy of certain beliefs, while relationships motivate people to more closely examine and eliminate their prejudices. Prejudice can also be reduced when caught early in childhood. While kids are not born with prejudices, they quickly learn based on the views of their parents and close family members, the media and other environmental influences. Teaching kids about tolerance, acceptance and diversity can help reduce prejudices before they become deeply rooted.

#3. Certain groups face more prejudice than others

People can develop prejudices based on just about any characteristic, but certain groups are targeted more often than others. According to the United Nations, people of African Descent are among the most discriminated-against groups around the world. Many also hold prejudices against migrants, refugees, women, people living in poverty, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and ethnic minorities. The reasons vary, but historical oppression plays a big role in which groups receive the most prejudiced treatment. If a group has been the subject of prejudiced beliefs and stereotypes for a long time, they tend to keep being targeted.

Prejudice often leads to racism. To learn more about where racism came from, check out this article.

#4. Prejudice and discrimination are technically different

Prejudice and discrimination are often used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same. Prejudice refers to a person’s feelings and attitudes toward a certain group, while discrimination refers to tangible actions based on those beliefs. Someone can hold prejudiced beliefs and never act on them, although it’s unusual for a belief to not manifest in some way. Discrimination can also be structural or institutional, while prejudice lives inside people’s heads. As soon as those thoughts are expressed outwardly, however, that’s when they become discrimination.

#5. Prejudice and discrimination affect health

Researchers have examined the connections between prejudice, discrimination and health for decades. When people are not treated equally based on prejudiced views about them, it affects their ability to receive services such as a good education, housing and employment. These are important health determinants. Prejudice can also affect the quality of healthcare a person can access. If a health provider holds prejudiced views, it’s likely to affect how they talk to a patient, what treatments they offer and how seriously they take any health concerns. According to the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership, healthcare discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community has become “particularly visible” in recent years. This has led to people delaying or avoiding medical treatment for fear of discrimination.

What are examples of prejudice?

Prejudice affects many individuals and groups, but what are some of the most prevalent examples? Here are seven:

#1. Racial prejudice

Racial prejudice manifests as negative feelings and attitudes towards people based on their ethnicity or perceived ethnicity. It commonly targets ethnic minorities, which manifests as structural or institutional discrimination, but people can hold racial prejudices against any race/ethnicity.

#2. Gender prejudice

Gender prejudice is prejudice based on someone’s gender or perceived gender. Because women and girls are still treated unequally throughout the world, gender prejudice typically targets them.

Interested in learning more about gender prejudice? Check out our article on the subject.

#3. Homophobia and transphobia

Homophobia refers to prejudiced views against gay people. While homophobia targets people based on their sexuality, transphobia targets people based on gender identity. Transphobia is a specific prejudice against transgender people. Homophobia and transphobia can also affect anyone who doesn’t appear to fall within the gender binary, regardless of their actual sexual or gender identity.

#4. Xenophobia

Xenophobia is prejudice against people based on their nationality. It often targets immigrants and refugees, but anyone perceived as a “foreigner” can be affected. Xenophobia is related to racial prejudice, but while racial prejudice can affect people from the same country, xenophobia focuses on nationality, culture and origin.

#5. Classism

Classism is a form of prejudice focused on someone’s socioeconomic status. It affects people experiencing poverty the most. When elevated to discrimination, classism reduces a person’s access to essentials like healthcare, housing, employment, education and more.

#6. Religious prejudice

Religious prejudice refers to negative feelings and attitudes towards people based on their religious beliefs. Prejudice can also affect people based on the fact they follow no religion.

#7. Ageism

Ageism is prejudice based on a person’s age. It can affect people because they’re perceived as either “too old” or “too young.” It’s common in workplace settings, but it’s present in healthcare and social interactions, too.

The post Prejudice 101: Definition, Facts, Examples appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School Global Institute for Human Rights Certificate Program, May 28-31, 2024 – Registration is now open.

The Global Institute of Human Rights Certificate Program is an immersive, live virtual online course of study aimed at undergraduate students, graduate students, and new career professionals passionate about a career in human rights advocacy, or just looking to enhance their understanding and awareness of the laws, norms, policies, movements, and strategies critical towards addressing the world’s most pressing human rights challenges. This opportunity is unique compared to traditional academic studies of human rights, as the focus of this program is to bring working human rights advocates from around the world to the table, allowing them to share their experiences with the next generation of human rights advocates.

Learn more

Program highlights include:

• Theory Blended with the Examination of Developing Trends in Human Rights
• Unique Chance to Directly Learn from Leaders and Experienced Practitioners in the Field
• Opportunity to Discover How Human Rights Intersects with Other Careers
• Sessions designed to offer a Gateway to Becoming an Effective Leader & Advocate for Human Rights
• Opportunity to Network with Peers & Fellow Advocates from Across the Globe

Taking place May 28 through 31, the 2024 Global Institute for Human Rights Certificate Program will be a four-day, live, virtual (online) experience that aims to provide a firm understanding of a range of issues, including, but not limited to: LGBTQ+ rights; refugee and migrant rights; women, peace, and security; environmental and climate justice; artificial intelligence for good; and access to justice and technology.

All participants who complete the program will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.

Enroll now

The post Register now: Global Institute of Human Rights Certificate Program appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

For decades, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have played a huge role in humanitarian aid and international affairs. They address issues such as poverty, health inequality, gender inequality, natural disasters and much more. While it’s difficult to know exactly how many NGOs there are, there could be millions actively working today. In this article, we’ll list the 15 biggest NGOs based in the USA. “Biggest” has a variety of meanings, but for our list, we’re considering their financials and overall influence. Some NGOs on the list have smaller revenues than others, but their social, political and cultural influence warrants their inclusion.

#1. Feeding America

In the late 1960s, while visiting a local meal program, a mother suggested there should be a place where people could pick up stored food. Her idea ushered in the creation of food banks. Feeding America is part of a nationwide network of food banks, pantries and meal programs. The US-based organization has several programs, including mobile pantries, drive-thru pantries, summer meal programs, a kid’s cafe and a school pantry program. The network boasts 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries that serve 1 in 7 Americans. According to the Forbes 2022 ranking of the 100 largest U.S. Charities, Feeding America’s total revenue is around $4.2 billion.

#2. United Way Worldwide

United Way Worldwide is an international network of over 1,800 local nonprofit fundraising affiliates. According to its website, its goal is to promote equitable communities, improve education, strengthen economic mobility and make communities healthier. It’s been operating for over 135 years. While it’s based in the United States, United Way Worldwide works in 37 countries and territories. It has around 11.5 million volunteers, 6.8 donors and 45,000 corporate partners. On the Forbes ranking, United Way Worldwide’s revenue was around $3.8 billion.

#3. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

St. Jude is a pediatric research and treatment facility based in Memphis, Tennessee. Entertainer Danny Thomas founded the hospital in 1962. Since its founding, St. Jude has focused on children’s diseases, in particular cancer. It also has treatment programs for infectious diseases, immunodeficiency diseases, blood disorders and sickle cell disease. Patients are not charged for their treatment. St. Jude’s total revenue was just over $2.4 billion according to Forbes’ ranking.

#4. The Salvation Army

While The Salvation Army is based in England, it has a large presence in the United States. It is an international charitable organization and a Protestant Christian church. According to its website, its mission is to “preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.” The organization runs charity shops, homeless shelters, service programs for the elderly, disaster relief programs and food pantries. On the Forbes 2022 ranking, it had a total revenue of $5.8 billion.

Interested in working at an NGO? Here’s our article on NGO jobs. 

#5. Direct Relief

Direct Relief is a humanitarian aid organization operating in every state in the United States and over 80 countries. It addresses issues like health equity, poverty and disaster relief. It’s been active since 1948. According to its website, Direct Relief is the largest charitable medicine program in the U.S. Its nonprofit health centers and clinics provide services to more than 30 million U.S. residents. Thanks to Direct Relief, people have increased access to prescription medicine, emergency medical supplies, IUDs and specialty medications for diseases like cancer and hepatitis. According to the Forbes 2022 ranking, Direct Relief had a total revenue of $2.2 billion.

#6. Good360

For 40 years, Good360’s goal has been to close “close the need gap.” It helps nonprofits get the goods they need, so their budgets can go toward programs and services. The organization, which is based in Virginia, USA, has over 100,000 nonprofit members and 400+ corporate donors. In 2022, Good360 distributed more than $2.5 billion in needed goods, which include mattresses, clothing, protective gear, drinking water and much more. On the Forbes charity ranking for the same year, the organization’s total revenue was $1.69 billion.

#7. Goodwill Industries International

Goodwill was founded in 1902 in Boston, Massachusetts. The organization collects donated household goods and clothing for sale. A portion of the money is then used for Goodwill’s education and workforce-related services. It partners with corporations like Indeed, Walmart, Bank of America and Coursera. In 2022, Goodwill served over 2.1 million people globally and helped almost 129,000 people train for jobs in banking, IT, healthcare and more. Its total revenue was $7.4 billion according to the Forbes ranking.

#8. YMCA of the USA

Often known as “the Y,” the YMCA of the USA is a nonprofit guided by Christian principles. The organization, which was founded in London in 1844, has grown to serve more than 64 million people in 120 countries. Its goal is to strengthen communities and create opportunities for everyone. It works in youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Programs include camps, swim classes, meal programs, sports leagues and so on. In 2022, the YMCA’s total revenue was $7.4 billion, according to the Forbes ranking.

Check out our article on 15 of the biggest NGOs in the world.

#9. Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is a US-based Christian nonprofit founded in 1976. It operates out of the state of Georgia but is active in more than 70 countries around the world. With families, communities, volunteers and partners, Habitat for Humanity works to increase access to housing. Its advocacy focuses on policy reform, while it’s also famous for building houses. Its other activities include older adults’ home repair, disaster response and neighborhood revitalization. According to the Forbes 2022 ranking, its total revenue was $2.1 billion.

#10. AmeriCares

For over 40 years, AmeriCares has focused on health equity. It works in health crises, medicine security and health services. While based in the United States, the organization provides dozens of countries with medicine, health services and medical supplies. Its goal is to improve the health of everyone it serves because health is a human right. According to its annual report from 2022, the organization responded to 36 emergencies, delivered 172 tons of medicine and supplies to Ukraine, and reached 3 million people with medicine.

#11. Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch (HRW) is a New York-based organization that researches and advocates for human rights. It has around 550 people from 70+ countries working as country experts, journalists, lawyers and other professionals who protect refugees, children and civilians during war. HRW investigates human rights abuses, exposes culprits through reports and social media, and meets with governments, corporations, the UN and others to advocate for change and justice. Since its establishment in 1978, HRW has been a part of some major victories for human rights, including the banning of landmines worldwide.

#12. Human Rights Campaign

Established in 1980, the Human Rights Campaign is the largest LGBTQ+ political lobbying organization in the United States. According to its website, it has over 3 million members and supporters worldwide and reaches 9 million people across its digital platforms. Program areas include children and families; public education and research; health and aging; transgender justice; workplace equality; and HIV and health equity. According to the organization’s 2022 990 form, the Human Rights Campaign had just over 20 million in net assets.

#13. Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood is a US-based reproductive healthcare nonprofit founded in 1916. It has grown into a national network of around 600 health centers operated by affiliates. It also works with more than 100 local organizations in Africa and Latin America to improve access to healthcare and education. It provides a range of services such as birth control, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, and screenings for cervical and other types of cancer. Some Planned Parenthood health centers can also provide abortions. In 2021-2022, the organization saw 2.13 patients, provided 2.3 million birth control services and performed over 470,000 pap tests and breast exams.

Why should people consider working for an NGO? Here’s our article of 15 reasons.

#14. American Red Cross

The American Red Cross, which was founded in 1881, is a health-focused humanitarian nonprofit that provides disaster relief, disaster preparedness education and emergency assistance. It offers overnight shelters, training services, blood drives and more. While the Red Cross offers services to everyone, it also has specific programs and services for military members, veterans and their families. According to the 2022 annual report, the organization served over 2 million meals and snacks with partners, reached over 1.8 million kids through home fire preparedness programs, and supported 36 countries with disaster response.

#15. International Rescue Committee

Established in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) focuses on people affected by conflict and disaster. The nonprofit provides healthcare, education, and other services that help empower communities and individuals. According to the IRC’s website, the organization reached over 32.9 million people in 2022. Their impact included supporting over 3,000 health facilities, enrolling over 800,000 kids and youth in learning programs, and providing over 8 million primary health care consultations. While IRC is based in New York, USA, it works in over 50 countries.

The post The Biggest 15 NGOs in the USA appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Crises like war, climate change, disease outbreaks and extreme poverty affect people of all ages, but children are uniquely disenfranchised. According to groups like the United Nations, children make up more than 50% of those living in extreme poverty. This makes them more vulnerable to poor health, violence, and exploitation. Governments also often neglect to establish legal protections for children, which makes it much harder for kids and families to obtain assistance and justice. Charities around the world help fill the gaps with humanitarian aid and economic empowerment, while many also provide platforms for young people to speak for themselves. In this article, we’ll go over 15 trusted charities focused on helping children.

#1. Save the Children

In 1919, Eglantyne Jebb witnessed children dying of hunger and disease after the end of WWI. She created the Save the Children fund to raise money. Today, the organization has grown into an international umbrella group with members in 120+ countries. Five core values drive the nonprofit’s work: accountability, integrity, ambition, collaboration and creativity. Programs vary across countries, but Save the Children’s priority areas include hunger and famine, the climate crisis, education, health and poverty in America. The organization has earned many accolades over the years, such as a 2023 top-rated award from the Great Nonprofits Top-Rated Awards and an A- from CharityWatch.

#2. Oxfam

Founded in England, Oxfam is a leading organization fighting poverty and injustice. It works with a global network of local organizations to deliver clean water, food, money and education to communities affected by climate change, disease, war and other urgent issues. While Oxfam doesn’t focus exclusively on children, its work on poverty, gender equality, economic justice and climate action are vital to the rights and safety of kids. CharityNavigator gives Oxfam America a 99% score, which makes it a four-star charity, the highest rating given by Charity Navigator. CharityWatch gave Oxfam a B+ in 2021.

#3. UNICEF

UNICEF (officially called the United Nations Children’s Fund) is an agency of the UN and charity providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children. It works in over 190 countries and territories on areas such as child survival, education, emergencies, gender, child protection and much more. It was founded in 1946 and relies on contributions from private donors and governments. On Charity Navigator, UNICEF USA has a 92% and four-star rating. CharityWatch gave UNICEF USA an A grade in 2021.

#4. Plan International

Plan International, which works in over 80 countries, is a developmental and humanitarian nonprofit working to advance children’s rights and gender equality. Founded in 1937, it works to empower children, make changes in practice and policy, work with kids and communities on crisis response, and support children from birth to adulthood. It has programs focused on education, protection from violence, youth empowerment, sexual and reproductive rights, early childhood development, skills and works, and emergencies. Plan International USA has a 100% score and four stars on Charity Navigator, while Plan International Inc. has an 86%.

Interested in learning more about child rights and protection? Here’s our list of 7 online courses.

#5. Right to Play

For more than two decades, this international organization has worked to help kids stay in school, graduate, stay safe and heal from the traumas of war and abuse. Founded in 1994, Right To Play now reaches millions of kids in 15 countries through programs focused on games, sports, creative play and free play. Right to Play’s goal is to empower 100 million kids by 2030. Through the power of play, the organization wants to empower girls, build peaceful communities, protect boys from violence, prevent HIV and do better in school. Right to Play has a 100% score and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator.

#6. Child Rights International Network

Child Rights International Network describes itself as a “creative human rights organization with a focus on children’s rights.” It seeks to challenge the status quo regarding children and young people’s place in society by advocating for rights – not charity – to shift how governments and culture treat young people. It uses research, art, policy and advocacy to articulate its mission. Its priorities include access to justice, age assessment, bodily integrity, children’s rights in the digital age, sexual violence and more.

#7. Amnesty International

Established in 1961, Amnesty International is one of the world’s largest advocacy NGOs. It may have as many as ten million members and supporters around the world. Through advocacy campaigns, including its famous letter-writing campaign, Amnesty International raises awareness of human rights abuses and petitions governments to take action. Its priority areas include armed conflict, climate change, discrimination, torture, police brutality and child rights. Amnesty International monitors human rights violations against children and hosts a free online child rights education course. Charity Navigator gives Amnesty International a 99% and four-star rating.

According to UNICEF, child labor affects around 1 in 10 children. Here’s our article on Child Labor 101.

#8. International Literacy Association

The International Literacy Association (ILA) is a professional membership organization with more than 300,000 literary educators, researchers and educators from 128 countries. The group advocates for children’s rights to read, as well as excellent literacy instruction and equitable access to education, resources and opportunities. ILA performs its work through publishing research, creating resources for educators, providing professional development and supporting teachers and other literacy professionals. Charity Navigator gives ILA a 100% and four-star score.

#9. Children’s Defense Fund

The Children’s Defense Fund has strong roots in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Marian Wright Edelman, the first Black woman admitted to the Mississippi Bar, founded the Children’s Defense Fund in 1973 to call on the government to improve its policies and programs for children. Today, the Fund operates a range of programs such as Freedom Schools and Beat the Odds. The organization’s goal is to work directly with kids and youth to help empower them. Its priorities include health, poverty, early childhood, youth justice and racial justice. The Children’s Defense Fund has a 99%, four-star rating from Charity Navigator. CharityWatch gave the charity an A grade in 2020.

#10. Children’s Rights Alliance

Established in 1995, the Ireland-based Children’s Rights Alliance has created a network of over 100 members working to improve children’s rights in Ireland. With 17 other organizations, the Alliance makes up the Community and Voluntary Pillar of Social Partnership. The group is also a member of the Eurochild network and the Children’s Mental Health Coalition/Mental Health Reform. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child guides the charity’s principles. Current projects include children’s access to justice, reform for child refugees, child poverty and early childhood development.

#11. Global Fund for Children

The Global Fund for Children was founded in 1993 by Maya Ajmera, who was inspired after learning a group of children were living, attending school and begging on a train platform in India. The charity takes the approach that innovative, community-based organizations can use small amounts of money to make long-term impacts on children and youth. The Fund finds organizations, funds programs, advises and guides partners, and builds national and regional networks. Charity Navigator gave the Global Fund for Children a 99%, four-star score.

#12. World Vision

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian aid, development and advocacy organization. It operates in over 100 countries with over 33,000 staff members, making it one of the world’s largest NGOs. It doesn’t focus exclusively on children, but child rights and protection is one of its target areas. It also works on education, economic development, health and nutrition, and clean water and sanitation. World Vision has a 94%, four-star score from Charity Navigator. Charity Watch gave the organization an A grade in 2022.

#13. Defence for Children

Defence for Children International (DCI) is a child rights, membership-based grassroots movement. Founded in 1979, the organization believes children should have full human rights and dignity. Its priorities include children affected by armed conflict, children on the move, violence against children and children deprived of liberty. It also pays special attention to gender equality and child participation. Because the DCI has a unique structure, its National Sections operate as grassroots organizations that identify and create programs that directly correspond to what kids in their countries need. The charity also partners with entities like the European Union and the United Nations Economic and Social Council.

Women’s empowerment is closely linked to children’s rights. Here’s our article on women’s empowerment jobs.

#14. Children International

Children International began in 1936 as a Christian mission providing food baskets and medical care in Israel. The organization has since expanded around the world, including countries in Asia, South America, Africa, and North and Central America. Its programs focus on health, education, empowerment and employment. Through its work, the organization helps more than 200,000 children and their families break out of poverty. Its recognitions include a 100% from Charity Navigator and an A- from Charity Watch.

#15. Malala Fund

Malala and Ziauddin Yousafzai founded the Malala Fund in 2013. The charity’s goal is to ensure all girls receive their right to 12 years of safe, free and good-quality education. The Fund invests in education advocates and community activists working to improve access to education in places where that right is threatened. Target regions include Turkey, India, Nigeria, Brazil, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Malala Fund also works in advocacy and research. Charity Navigator gave the Malala Fund a 100%, four-star rating.

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We are recruiting our next Junior Professional Officers to the OSCE in Vienna!

If you are a skilled graduate with enthusiasm and curiosity to join the OSCE, the Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme might be the right choice for you and the beginning of an exciting international career journey. The overall goal of the JPO Programme is to provide our JPOs with an overview of the Organisation, its programmatic approach and regulatory framework and to offer hands-on experience with OSCE projects and activities in the Secretariat and in our Field Missions. The programme offers young professionals an opportunity to build a professional career in the multilateral international cooperation and equip them with skills and abilities necessary to work in a multicultural environment. The JPO Programme is a great opportunity to get a foothold in the international civil service sector. During their 24 months assignment, JPOs will work at two different duty stations and can potentially focus on two different subject areas. First, there will be a twelve-months period at the Secretariat (March 2024 until March 2025) followed by another twelve-months period in one of the OSCE field operations (April 2025 until April 2026).

During this round the Junior Professional Offer Programme is targeting candidates for positions in a wide range of thematic areas. Candidates must indicate their preference for a maximum of three thematic areas of interest in order of preference in their application. For more information about the thematic areas available, please see Terms of Reference.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

Typical Tasks and Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting thematic research, or surveys and analyses, and assisting in drafting research papers, policy reports or concept papers for the department/office of assignment;
• Preparing policy work and background material for events, meetings or trips; assisting in the organization of meetings and events, communicating and networking with different partners and stakeholders;
• Assisting in the preparation of written materials such as briefing papers, memos, talking points, speeches, newsletters, and presentations on specific issues related to the department of assignment;
• Providing logistic and administrative support in the implementation, development and monitoring of projects;
• Attending and providing support to various OSCE meetings, such as regular meetings of the OSCE decision-making and OSCE-related bodies;
• Performing legal research and analysis and providing legal support for the preparation of legal opinions, studies, reports or correspondence, contracts, etc.;
• Gaining insight into and participating in audit/evaluation related assignments;
• Supporting the organization of events, meetings, regional workshops, round-tables and conferences including administering participants, communicating with participants/speakers, preparing and distributing materials and assisting with visa applications and hotel arrangements and online arrangements;
• Providing support to OSCE learning activities; developing visuals and promotional materials;
• Supporting with developing and publishing engaging content for the OSCE social media channels and the OSCE website; website updates, the production of booklets and leaflets and communication related events and outreach activities; organization and facilitation of webinars.

Qualifications:

• Candidates should be under the age of 32 on the deadline of this vacancy notice;
• As the national nominating authority for OSCE, a requirement is that you are a Norwegian citizen;
• Completed first-level university degree in a field of study relevant to OSCE’s mandate. This may include degrees in: Political Science, International Relations, Human Rights, Law, politico-military aspects of security, Criminal Justice, Peace and Conflict studies, Educational/Social sciences, Public Policy, Business Administration, Human Resources, Economics, Environmental studies, Information Technology, Media studies, Gender studies;
• Previous work experience in a relevant field would be an asset;
• Professional fluency in English, both oral and written, and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely is mandatory; knowledge of other OSCE official languages would be an asset;
• Awareness of the importance of integrating a diversity perspective into tasks and activities;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people of different national and cultural backgrounds whilst maintaining impartiality and objectivity;
• Demonstrated open-mindedness, flexibility, high motivation and readiness to take on challenges;
• Computer literacy with practical experience with Microsoft applications.

The main competencies of a NORCAP Expert: 

• Building working relationships
• Planning and organising
• Adaptability
• Resilience

What we offer

• Rewarding work for a renowned global organisation
• Access to a network of humanitarian, peace, and development professionals
• Join NORCAP’s team of experts and be considered for future assignments elsewhere
• A dedicated Staff Care Unit

How to apply

• When submitting your application, kindly register in English your full employment history and education. Please include your full name as written in your passport. Uploaded CVs alone will not be reviewed.
• NORCAP values diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion or disability.
• NORCAP reserves the right to conduct a full background check on shortlisted candidates
• Approved Health Certificate will be required prior to contract commencement and assignment
• Feedback will be given to all applicants within four weeks after the closing of this advertisement.
• Apply before 26th November 2023,11.59PM CET

NORDEM is NORCAP`s programme on human rights, democracy and peace. NORDEM has a longstanding partnership with the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Norwegian experts have been seconded to support the Secretariat in Vienna and the various OSCE institutions and field missions.

APPLY HERE

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Charity groups have existed for centuries. Early organizations often addressed poverty or needs related to war. Many consider The Anti-Slavery Society, founded in 1839, to be the first international NGO. The term “NGO”, however, didn’t emerge until 1945. Chapter 10, Article 71 of the United Nations Charter defines “non-governmental organizations” as organizations with a consultative role with the UN. Today, the term “NGO” is a bit broader and includes organizations like Amnesty International and Doctors Without Borders. NGOs have spread extensively across the world, numbering in the millions. Interested in working for an NGO? Here’s our quick guide to NGO jobs.

What types of jobs are available at NGOs?

Because of the many types of NGOs, NGO professionals work in just about every field. NGOs need researchers, project managers, finance officers and more. Here are eight job descriptions:

Research manager

Research managers coordinate and manage an NGO’s research projects. Many types of NGOs depend on research, so the content can include business, health, torture, LGBTQ+ rights, and more. Research managers work with a team to develop and monitor methodologies and processes. They also analyze the collected research, create reports and present findings. Most research managers need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like statistics, economics or psychology. Advanced degrees are often preferred alongside previous research experience.

NGO project manager

Project managers at NGOs are responsible for overseeing project development and execution, guiding a team, submitting activity reports, budgeting and monitoring the project processes. Because managers are deeply involved in a project from start to finish, it’s a big job. They need excellent leadership and communication skills, including the ability to delegate responsibilities, motivate a team and communicate with an NGO’s stakeholders. A candidate should have at least a bachelor’s degree, though many organizations prefer advanced degrees. Previous work experience – specifically in leadership – also increases a candidate’s chances.

Want to learn about more NGO job types? Here’s our list of 20 job types, their associated salaries, qualifications and tasks.

Finance officer

Finance officers oversee an NGO’s financial operations. Responsibilities include maintaining financial records, creating reports, preparing budgets and making financial recommendations. Officers work in close communication with other departments in the organization, ensuring that program funds are used appropriately and that all reporting is done on time. At least a bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration or a related field is necessary, although again, many NGOs want candidates with advanced degrees.

Communications officer

Communications officers are essential to an NGO’s branding, campaigning, PR and fundraising strategy. Their work can include developing long-term strategies for an organization, developing business plans, researching and creating communications materials like websites, annual reports and brochures. Communications officers also act as spokespeople for the NGO’s media events. Good candidates will have at least a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or a related field, as well as experience in a communications role.

Fundraisers

Fundraisers work on the financial side of an NGO. Their job is to generate funds. Activities can include promoting monthly donations, developing fundraising campaigns and organizing other events. Most fundraisers have at least a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business or a related field, although many NGOs like candidates with master’s degrees in nonprofit management or something similar. Good fundraisers have skills like excellent organization, problem-solving, budget management, and excellent communication.

If you’re interested in fundraising, check out our list of 10 master’s programs in fundraising and related areas.

Grant writer

Because most NGOs depend on grants for their operations, grant writers are essential. As a type of fundraiser, they’re responsible for identifying grants the organization is eligible for, writing proposals, balancing budgets and completing other tasks related to the grant. Most grant writers need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like communications, while some NGOs prefer candidates with master’s degrees. A few years of grant-writing experience, excellent research skills, excellent communication skills and a deep understanding of the NGO world are also important.

Policy analyst

Policy analysts study the impact of laws and regulations on certain groups, organizations and society in general. Many organizations hire policy analysts to collect data on certain laws, develop policy recommendations and track legislation. As an example, an advocacy group focused on ending poverty will hire analysts to study how certain policies affect poverty rates and what policies can reduce poverty. Some policy analyst positions may only require a bachelor’s degree, but many NGOs want candidates with a master’s degree in a field like economics, political science or public policy. Work and research experience is also valuable.

Educator

Education is a human right, so many NGOs implement education-focused programs and initiatives into their work. Education professionals can work as managers, consultants, program directors, curriculum writers, policy analysts and so on. They may focus on traditional education (reading, writing, math, science, etc) or human rights education. Entry-level educator jobs typically require a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in education), but a master’s degree is usually required for higher-level positions. Tasks may include developing and coordinating education programs, working in the field, creating curriculum and working directly with students.

NGOs like Plan International and Amnesty International offer careers in education. Here’s our list of 11 organizations.

Why are NGO jobs important?

NGOs play an important role in society on a local, national and international scale. While governments have a primary responsibility to help their citizens, they often fail for one reason or another. NGOs, depending on their goals, advance human rights, provide humanitarian relief and promote sustainable development. They work on issues like disaster relief, hunger, water and sanitation, gender inequality, climate change, children’s rights, education and much more. Their activities can focus on both short-term and long-term needs. Because of globalization, the NGO world is growing and needs qualified, trustworthy people to fill a variety of jobs.

Check out our article on why NGOs are important.

We know NGOs matter, but what do NGO workers get out of the job? While the work can be challenging – and even dangerous – there are many benefits. The first is the sheer volume of available careers. This article only scratches the surface of what NGOs offer, which work in every field. These jobs also provide professionals with countless skill-building and travel opportunities. NGO work can also make you eligible for student loan forgiveness and help you get into certain post-graduate programs. Working for an NGO can also be incredibly meaningful, and research consistently shows that “meaningfulness” is more important to most people than any other aspect of a job. If you find a job that feels meaningful, you’re more likely to feel content and motivated.

Where do NGO professionals work?

NGO professionals work all over the world in local, national, and international NGOs. Because NGOs serve such varied purposes, almost anyone with a college degree can find a role that fits their background. Professionals work in office settings and the field. Here are five of the world’s largest NGOs:

Oxfam International

This anti-poverty organization was established in 1942. It focuses on gender equality, water and sanitation, climate justice and disaster relief. It operates in over 90 countries, including Yemen and Syria. Oxfam also runs charity shops, most of which are based in the United Kingdom.

Amnesty International

With a presence in over 150 countries, Amnesty International is one of the world’s largest NGOs. It promotes human rights through regular advocacy campaigns. While it has a focus on ending the death penalty and torture, it works on ending every human rights abuse. Its priority areas include children’s rights, discrimination, armed conflict and international justice.

International Rescue Committee

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) was first founded in response to refugees leaving Germany following the rise of the Nazi Party. It now helps refugees affected by conflict, humanitarian disasters, climate change and other crises that cause displacement. IRC focuses on safety, economic well-being, empowerment, education, and the rights of women and girls.

Doctors Without Borders

Also known as Médecins Sans Frontières, Doctors Without Borders is a medical NGO. It addresses the consequences of conflict, natural disasters, disease outbreaks and more by addressing maternal health, malnutrition, HIV/AIDS and much more. At the time of writing, the NGO worked in over 70 countries.

Plan International

With a presence in over 75 countries, Plan International is a global humanitarian and development NGO. It focuses on children’s rights, education, sexual and reproductive health, youth empowerment and gender equality. It’s been in operation since 1937.

How do you become an NGO professional?

NGO work is extremely diverse, so there’s no one path to an NGO career. To increase your available options, however, here are the steps we recommend:

Get a degree (preferably a master’s) 

You will need at least a bachelor’s degree for entry-level NGO jobs, though most prefer (or require) master’s degrees or even doctorates. This is especially true if you want to advance in your career. NGO work is very competitive, so it’s not uncommon for organizations to filter out candidates who don’t meet all the requirements. The right degree depends on what kind of NGO work you want to do. As an example, if you want to work in project management, a degree in business administration works well. If you want to work in law, you’ll need a law degree. Take the NGO or nonprofit-specific classes offered within your specialty.

Gain work experience

NGOs prioritize candidates with work experience. That includes paid work, internships and volunteering, and fellowships. These experiences give you a close look at how NGOs operate, what makes them successful and sustainable and what skills are necessary. When hiring for jobs, NGOs want to know candidates have at least a general idea of what to expect, while they favor candidates who’ve already demonstrated skills like leadership, communication and problem-solving. As we already said, NGO jobs are competitive, so if you can’t find a job early on, remember most NGOs need volunteers. While you aren’t guaranteed a job based on volunteer work, it helps.

Look for jobs on NGO job boards

To find the jobs that best fit your experiences and interests, consider searching on job boards dedicated to NGO work. Examples include Idealist, Reliefweb, and Impactpool. Human Rights Careers also features jobs.

How much do NGO professionals get paid?

There’s a wide range of salaries for NGO professionals. According to data from Indeed, the national average for a fundraising specialist in the US is $51,488, while program managers make around $67,128. High-level jobs, like NGO directors and experienced consultants, can earn six figures. What you can expect to earn depends on factors such as the specific job, your experience level, your location and the size of the NGO. What similar NGOs pay for similar work also factors into your salary.

The post NGO Jobs: Our Short Guide appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Since 1950, December 10 has been recognized globally as Human Rights Day. It’s in honor of when the UN adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on December 10, 1948. All across the world, nonprofits, governments, and individuals hold special events to celebrate the UDHR and human rights activism, while also raising awareness of important human rights issues and trends. How can you celebrate Human Rights Day? Here are 15 ideas:

#1. Volunteer at a local human rights organization

Every community has organizations working on human rights and social justice. A few examples include food banks, free medical clinics, refugee services, homeless shelters, and more. Most of these organizations need volunteers. While you may not be able to volunteer on December 10th, volunteering at least once around this time is a great way to honor Human Rights Day. If possible, consider volunteering on a more regular basis, even if it’s just once a month or a few times a year.

#2. Donate to a human rights cause

Nonprofits operate with tight budgets, while there’s no shortage of people on crowdfunding websites asking for help with medical bills, funerals, and more. If you have some extra cash, consider donating in recognition of Human Rights Day. It doesn’t need to be much. While nonprofits love large gifts, it’s the more consistent, smaller funds that keep their work sustainable. You can vet a nonprofit’s reputation on sites like Charity Navigator and GuideStar. If you want to give directly to an individual or family through a crowdfunding website, read the terms of service carefully. Places like GoFundMe take a percentage of each donation for operating costs.

#3. Attend a local (or online) Human Rights Day event

Nonprofits, government agencies, libraries, and other places often host Human Rights Day events. If you want to attend in person, check your local area for workshops, readings, lectures, conferences, and other activities. You can also find events hosted online, which is more convenient for many people. If you can’t find (or can’t attend) an event on Human Rights Day itself, look for other human rights and social justice activities you can attend at a later date.

#4. Host a human rights book club

If you’re part of a book club, consider asking your group to read a book about human rights for December! There are countless fiction and non-fiction books covering topics like racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, children’s rights, refugee rights, and much more. Take some time to write thoughtful discussion questions. You can also create a list of ideas on how to participate in the promotion and protection of human rights, whether that’s through donating money, volunteering, or more actively engaging in existing human rights activities and programs around town.

Not sure what book to suggest? Here’s our list of 13 inspiring books on human rights.

#5. Host a human rights movie night

A movie night is an engaging, low-commitment way to get people together for Human Rights Day. It’s also a good activity because nonprofits, businesses, religious organizations, and individuals can all host. Whether your event features 100 people or just a few close friends, a human rights movie night is a great way to learn more about human rights, build solidarity, and discuss how your community can make a difference in the world. Every movie night needs snacks! If your event will have lots of people, you can reach out to local restaurants to see if they’ll offer discounts. They’re more likely to accommodate nonprofits.

Need ideas for a movie? Here’s our list of 13 social justice movies.

#6. Write a short blog or social media post about Human Rights Day

If you like to write or are active on social media, you can celebrate Human Rights Day by writing a short blog or post. You can write about what human rights mean to you personally or share an issue you’re passionate about. You can share the post with a few close family and friends, or make the post public. If you enjoy writing or are active on social media, Human Rights Day can be a good opportunity to share a post or a short blog. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate; it could be a simple reflection on what human rights mean to you, or a mention of an issue you care about. Sharing it with family, friends or publicly allows you to express your thoughts and perhaps get others thinking about human rights too. It’s a small but meaningful way to acknowledge the day and the values it stands for.

#7. Organize a fundraiser

You can make a small donation to a human rights cause on your own, but if you want to encourage your community to donate, consider organizing a fundraiser! If you work for a nonprofit, you’re most likely somewhat familiar with fundraising events, but it’s something just about anyone can do with a little research. Websites like Facebook even let individual users set up fundraisers that benefit their favorite nonprofits. If you decide to organize a larger-scale event with entertainment, food, silent auctions, and other more interactive elements, you’ll need to plan. Even if you can’t host a fundraiser for this year’s Human Rights Day, it could be something you organize for next year!

How do nonprofits organize donor events? Here’s our 10-step guide.

#8. Bring Human Rights Day into the classroom

If you’re a student or teacher interested in Human Rights Day, consider recognizing the holiday in your classroom. Places like the United Nations offer lots of potential resources, while you can also host a movie or discussion in class. For more student participation, ask them to research a current human rights issue and present it to the class on or around December 10th. If you’re the parent of a student, contact your child’s school to see if the school is already planning something or if there are ways you can get involved.

#9. Host a library reading for kids

Kids need to learn about human rights, but it should be done in an engaging, inspiring, and kid-friendly way. Luckily, there are lots of human rights books written with kids in mind. The library is a great place to hold a human rights story hour where parents can bring their kids. Story hours can also include interactive activities, songs, crafting, and more. Best of all, library readings are free, so every child is welcome. If possible, libraries can also ask the author of the book to do a reading themselves!

Here’s a list of human rights books for kids from Amnesty International.

#10. Join “Write for Rights”

Every Human Rights Day, Amnesty International holds its famous “Write For Rights” campaign. It is the organization’s largest annual letter-writing campaign. With the toolkit, which is offered on the AI website, participants write letters on behalf of those whose rights are being violated. Hundreds of thousands of people write letters every year. You can join local letter-writing parties (which are tracked on the event map), write as an individual, or host private events.

#11. Organize a ceremony for human rights advocates

Every community has human rights advocates working on issues like gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, houselessness, racial justice, and more. Human Rights Day is a great time to honor their hard work, sacrifices, and achievements. The celebration also lets advocates describe their work and what the rest of the community can do to help. Nonprofits, businesses, and other organizations are great hosts for ceremonies like this. If you don’t have experience planning events, ask around your community for help.

#12. Curate an art exhibit

Art is one of the most powerful tools for human rights. Galleries, art stores, museums, libraries, and other places where it makes sense to display art are great spots for exhibits. There are lots of artists and art pieces depicting various aspects of human rights. Organizers can search for (and get permission) to use art from artists around the world or commission art from members of the local community. You can curate a specific theme (such as human rights and children) or use the exhibit to raise awareness of human rights in general.

#13. Organize a workshop on self-advocacy

Self-advocacy workshops often center on empowering people with disabilities, but they can help anyone understand their rights and how to best advocate for themselves. Discrimination targets people based on their age, race, gender, sexuality, and more. A self-advocacy workshop, which can include role-playing activities, lectures, discussions, and so on, helps people understand the law and their human rights. They also help build communication skills, emotional resilience, and more.

#14. Organize a Human Rights Day festival

Festivals bring community members of all ages together in a fun, interactive way! To ensure the festival is well-attended, it’s a good idea to hold it on the weekend, even if Human Rights Day itself is on a weekday. Ideas for vendors and activities include food carts, live theater and music, activism workshops, book reading, games for kids, art exhibits, and more. Organizing a festival is hard work, so you’ll want to start planning far in advance. Sponsors are also important, so seek out partners who believe in human rights and want to participate in their promotion.

#15. Hold a vigil

Human Rights Day can be encouraging and celebratory, but it also provides opportunities for reflection and remembrance. Lots of people have had their human rights violated. December 10th is a good day to honor them. Vigils, which are often held late in the afternoon or into the night, can recognize specific people or events. They can also honor all victims and survivors of human rights abuses. If you want to hold a public vigil, be aware of any legal requirements or risks to the safety of participants. If you decide to keep the vigil private for safety or organizational reasons, that’s acceptable, too. Vigils often include singing, prayers, short speeches, and moments of silence.

The post 15 Ideas to Celebrate Human Rights Day appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The United Kingdom consists of four geographic parts: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Island. It’s home to nearly 68 million people, while its capital city – London – is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world. What are the social issues facing the UK today? Here are 15 examples:

#1. Cost-of-living crisis

The UK has been in a cost-of-living crisis since 2021. There are a few causes, such as the global rise in inflation, COVID-19, the war in Ukraine, and Brexit. The high price of everyday goods, like groceries, electricity, and clothing, has the most impact on low-income families and individuals. High bills also impact the future of young people. According to a survey of 18-24-year-olds, ⅔ had lowered their career expectations, saying they could only focus on short-term survival. While the rate of price increases appears to be falling, it will likely take many people a long time to recover.

#2. Food insecurity

In its 2023 World Report on the UK, Human Rights Watch listed the “right to food” as an area of concern. The UK’s largest food bank network distributed 2.1 million emergency food parcels, which represents an 81% increase since 2017. Single-parent households, Black families, and people in social housing are the most likely to struggle with food security. People with disabilities and people receiving social security are also four times more likely to face food insecurity. High costs are a big reason why food security is becoming a more serious issue.

#3. Children experiencing poverty

Around 14.5 million people in the UK live in poverty. 4.3 million are children. According to data, the income of the households earning the least is set to fall yet again. Black and minority ethnic children will be affected the most. 46% of this group live in poverty compared to 26% of white British children. A report on northern schools found a link between education and poverty. Kids born into the poorest fifth of families in the UK were 13 times more likely to experience poor educational outcomes and poor health by 17 years old. A lack of funding is a big reason why. Northern schools get less money compared to Southern schools. While it’s not the only issue to address when it comes to child poverty, adequate education is crucial.

#4. Homelessness

It’s difficult to get accurate information on the number of people experiencing homelessness, but according to CNN, the number of households in temporary commendation reached its highest level since 1998. Temporary accommodations include hostels and rooms in a shared house. To address this issue, experts say the government needs to build homes. While they put the ideal number at around 380,000 homes, only 192,000 homes were built in 2022. The causes of homelessness, like high rents and a lack of affordable housing, also need to be addressed.

#5. Women’s rights

The UK faces many of the same issues as other countries struggling to achieve gender equality: a gender pay gap, job segregation, and cultural sexism. Unfortunately, not everyone believes the UK needs to do more work. According to one survey, 39% of participants believed that men were expected to do “too much” to support gender equality, while 43% believed society was now discriminating against men. Young people, especially boys, face an onslaught of misogynist content online, which affects their views on women and gender equality. On the other hand, 51% of survey participants said there were actions they could do to promote gender equality, while 47% expressed optimism about achieving equality within their lifetime.

#6. Trans rights

The UK has frequently ranked high on lists of the best and safest places for the LGBTQ+ community, but its views on trans rights have caused significant harm. The British press has driven much of the public’s contempt for trans people, while legal protections are not adequate. In Scotland, Parliament passed a Gender Recognition Reform bill, which made it easier for trans people to legally change their gender. The UK vetoed the bill, which had never happened before in Scottish history. These are just a few explanations for why the UK dropped from 10th to 14th place in ILGA’s 2020 European ranking.

#7. Climate change

The UK is one of the world’s top 20 greenhouse gas emitters. While the public supports stronger regulations and emission reductions, the country is not on track to meet its goals. It still depends heavily on electricity generated from gas. In 2022, the country recorded its hottest temperatures on record: 104 Fahrenheit/40 Celsius. Despite the climate emergency, there are concerns that Britain’s prime minister, Rishi Sunak, is planning to “backtrack” on the UK’s climate goals.

#8. Education

The quality of someone’s education has a huge impact on their future. In the UK, hundreds of thousands of kids don’t even have a safe school building. According to a report, around 700,000 kids attend school at “unsafe or aging” buildings in need of major repairs. If not addressed, issues like asbestos and sewage leaks pose serious risks to kids. Education quality is also threatened if students are frequently suspended. Post-pandemic, more than 3,000 students are sent home every day. Many of these kids come from low-income backgrounds, while children with special needs are four times more likely to lose learning due to suspensions.

#9. Healthcare

For years, the publicly-funded National Health Service (NHS) was a source of pride for the UK. Now, the system is weakening. Wait times for treatments and emergency care are getting out of control. According to CNN, half of the people waiting for “elective care,” which can include cardiac surgery and cancer treatment, had waited up to 18 weeks. 400,000 had waited for over a year. Healthcare workers are feeling the strain, too. In early 2023, tens of thousands of nurses and ambulance workers staged the largest walkout in the NHS’ history. Falling wages, staff shortages, and lack of funds are just three of the major issues. Experts worry about the sustainability of the NHS while private health insurance is increasing to fill in the gaps.

#10. Racial discrimination

Certain parts of the UK are very racially diverse – especially London – but discrimination remains a problem. According to the UN, racism is “structural, institutional and systemic.” People of African descent face especially severe discrimination and violations of their rights. There’s been progress regarding reconciliation, but more needs to be done. The COVID-19 pandemic also triggered racist attitudes and attacks toward British Chinese people and Southeastern Asians.

#11. Police brutality

There’s little doubt that countries like the United States have a police brutality issue, but the UK has similar problems. In a blog from the University of Birmingham, an associate professor of law and criminal justice points out how “warrior culture,” which encourages police to turn to aggression and violence, is present in the UK. One report from the charity group Inquest found that Black people are seven times more likely to die after police restraint. In early 2023, more than 1,500 police officers were accused of violence against women and girls. Because police brutality is often covered up or not reported for fear of retaliation, the scale of the problem is likely much worse.

#12. Mental health

Mental health conditions are very common in the UK. Stigma remains a barrier to getting care. According to one survey, around 9 out of 10 people with mental health issues say that discrimination and stigma negatively impact their lives. Mental health problems also cost the country a lot of money. One report found that mental health costs the UK at least £117.9 billion every year. Most of that cost comes from lost productivity and what’s accumulated by unpaid informal caregivers providing mental health support to their communities.

#13. Asylum and migration

According to Guardian reporting, the UK ranks 17th among EU countries for number of asylum applications. In terms of protecting the rights of asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants, its record isn’t the best. The Nationality and Borders Act, which became law in 2022, criminalizes those seeking asylum through “irregular means.” The government’s goal is to stop people crossing the Channel in small boats. No safer alternatives have been offered. Groups like the UN Refugee Council and civil society groups have condemned the law.

#14. Weakening of human rights protections

According to Human Rights Watch, the UK has suffered several human rights issues in recent years. The UK director went so far as to call 2022 the “most significant assault on human rights protections in the UK in decades.” Examples include violations of the rights of asylum seekers, voter disenfranchisement, and new restrictions on the right to peaceful protest. The government also brought up repealing the Human Rights Act, claiming it was being abused and that replacing it would strengthen UK sovereignty. Experts warn repealing the Act would severely weaken human rights protections. At the time of writing, the UK had not repealed or replaced the Human Rights Act, but the possibility remains a concern.

#15. Digital safety and privacy

The internet can be a dangerous place, especially for young people. The UK is attempting to increase protections with the Online Safety Bill, which passed on September 19, 2023. The legislation regulates how large tech firms design, operate, and moderate social media platforms. However, privacy activists worry about the bill’s impacts on freedom of expression, privacy rights, and end-to-end encryption, which keeps data secure from companies and governments. The UK government has also faced backlash for using surveillance technology that could log and store the web histories of millions. If the technology is implemented nationally, it increases law enforcement’s intrusive reach. Digital safety and privacy is a complex issue as the two aspects – safety and privacy – often battle one another.

The post 15 Examples of Social Issues in the UK appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Over 26 million people live in Australia, which is the smallest continent on the planet. It’s home to some of the world’s most beautiful ecosystems, like the Great Barrier Reef, the Blue Mountains, and the Daintree Rainforest. It was also colonized by the British, which used it as a penal colony from the late 18th century until the mid-19th century. Today, it is a sovereign country with its own social issues. Here are 15 examples:

#1. Poverty

In 2022, a report on poverty found that 1 in 8 people, including 1 in 6 children, were living in poverty. Australia is one of the world’s richest countries, but over 3 million people struggle to pay basic bills. Income support would make a big difference. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, an economic support program lifted 645,000 people (245,000 of those people were children) above the poverty line. These supports were temporary, but if they became permanent, Australia could reduce poverty very effectively.

#2. Rights of asylum seekers and refugees

When asylum seekers and refugees come to Australia without a valid visa, they’re held in immigration detention until they get a visa or are removed from Australia. There is no limit to how long someone can be detained, so thousands of asylum seekers and some recognized refugees are held in centers around the country. Australia also uses an offshore processing system. Under this system, asylum seekers and refugees are taken to camps in places like Nauru and Papua New Guinea. Families and individuals live in inadequate conditions, sometimes for years. Human Rights Watch has called Australia’s offshore system “abusive and costly.” Since 2013, at least 12 refugees and asylum seekers have died in Australia’s offshore processing system. Six took their own lives.

#3. Indigenous rights

When it comes to Indigenous rights, Australia’s history is full of abuse and discrimination. From the mid-1800s to the 1970s, government policies took children from their families in a period known as “The Stolen Generations.” The legacy of racism and discrimination continues today. Despite making up just 3.8% of the population, Indigenous Australians are “overrepresented” in the criminal justice system. In 2021, at least 11 Indigenous people died in custody due to abuse and/or medical neglect. Indigenous people are also more likely to receive poor education and die young. Australia has the opportunity to protect Indigenous rights with referendums like the “Voice to Parliament,” which would enshrine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the constitution and create an advisory body.

#4. Disability rights

The Disability Discrimination Act, which passed in 1992, makes it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their disability. It covers areas like employment, education, public services, and more. Temporary and permanent disabilities are also covered. According to a research paper, however, Australia’s interpretation of the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities prevents reform and allows human rights violations to thrive. Examples of violations include forced medical interventions and indefinite detention. Children and people in prisons face some of the worst abuse and discrimination.

#5. LGBTQ+ rights

Australia has many laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights and protections, but the system is far from perfect. According to reporting from The Guardian, anti-discrimination laws across the country are “patchy.” There are broad exemptions, especially for religious groups, which can open the door to discrimination and bigotry. Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia don’t even have laws that protect LGBTQ+ people from vilification. There are also no federal laws that outlaw vilification based on gender or sexuality. To protect the LGBTQ+ community, Australia needs to strengthen its existing laws and expand protections.

#6. Gender equality

Generally, Australia is a safe and welcoming place for most women, but it still hasn’t achieved gender equality. According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, women in Australia are paid 17.5% less than men doing the same work. The causes include gender stereotypes and low pay for jobs historically performed by women, like social work. Differences in education and work experience, a lack of female leadership, discrimination, and a lack of accommodations for families are other causes.

#7. Violence against women

While Australia ranks high on lists of safest countries for women, violence against women is still an issue. According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, 1 in 3 Australian women will experience violence in an intimate relationship. 1 in 5 women have experienced sexual violence since turning 15 years old. Indigenous women face a higher risk. Research shows they’re 12 times more likely to be victims of assault than non-Indigenous women. Violence is often perpetuated by partners or husbands.

#8. Incarceration of children

Currently, Australia’s age of criminal responsibility is just 10 years old, while the international recommendation is 14 years old. Hundreds of kids are imprisoned each year. In one case, a 13-year-old Indigenous Australian boy spent 45 days in solitary confinement, despite being held for minor offenses. In another case, a 13-year-old with developmental disabilities spent 78 days in a cell for 20 hours a day. These cases could violate the boys’ rights to fresh air and exercise. The cases are not uncommon, either. According to data, overcrowding in juvenile prisons means children – mostly Indigenous children- are often moved to adult prisons. Kids in adult prisons face a high risk of sexual abuse, assault, and suicide.

#9. Healthcare access in prison

Australia uses Medicare. It’s a single-payer, universal healthcare program that covers all Australian citizens and residents. Groups like veterans and Indigenous Australians can access special programs, but there’s one demographic that’s excluded: people in prison. Many human rights experts believe this exclusion constitutes a human rights violation. During COVID-19, the state was slow to give prisoners vaccines despite their heightened risk for the disease due to poor ventilation, an inability to social distance, inadequate sanitation and hygiene, and other factors. People in prison also lack adequate mental health services. In 2018, 40% of jail entrants had a mental health condition, while mental health services in prison were “severely underfunded.” Without access to Medicare, it’s much harder for people in prison to get the healthcare they need.

#10. Rights of older people

Australia’s population is aging, which opens the door to systemic discrimination and inadequate care. In 2021, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality And Safety released a report recommending “fundamental reform” of the aged care system. Specific changes included increased accountability for human rights violations, minimum staffing requirements, and increased access to home and community support services. COVID-19 revealed cracks in the system, but it will take significant changes to improve Australia’s aged care services.

#11. Housing affordability

It’s getting more and more expensive to buy and rent housing in Australia. According to a report by PropTrack, which analyzes the real estate market, a household earning an average income would need to spend a third of their income on mortgage repayments for a median-priced home. Increasing home prices and rising mortgage rates are two reasons for housing unaffordability. Tasmania, which has historically had the most affordable homes, is now a place where a typical-income household can only afford 5% of homes sold. Young people and first-time home buyers are some of the hardest hit.

#12. Homelessness

On any given night, around 1 in 200 Australians don’t have a place to sleep. According to data, 1 in 3 houseless Australians are under 18 years old. Young people are especially vulnerable as it’s difficult to get affordable, long-term housing. Domestic violence is the biggest driver of homelessness in Australia, while other causes include unemployment, poverty, and addiction. Most people experiencing homelessness are in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane, which are Australia’s largest cities.

#13. Mental health

According to the Australian government, over 2 in 5 Australians between 16 and 85 years old have experienced a mental disorder at some point in their lives. Anxiety is the most common disorder, followed by depression and substance abuse. While anyone can experience poor mental health, 24% of the Indigenous Australian population reported a mental health or behavioral condition in 2018-2019. Mental illness still faces stigma in Australia, which makes it even harder for people to get the help they need. Reducing stigma, making it easier to access care, and addressing the roots of poor mental health are all necessary steps.

#14. Loss of biodiversity

“Biodiversity” refers to the variety of life on earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It’s essential to a healthy planet. Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique ecosystems and species. Around 82% of animals and 93% of frogs in Australia only exist there. Tragically, the human impact on biodiversity has been catastrophic. Pollution, resource exploitation, and other issues threaten areas like the Great Barrier Reef, which is the world’s largest coral reef system. Currently, Australia has the worst mammal extinction rate in the world. Preserving Australia’s biodiversity is essential to its future.

#15. Wildfires

Australia is known for its brutal wildfire season. Climate change has made it worse. One fire, which burned through Australia’s summer from June 2019 to January 2020, released smoke levels comparable to a major volcanic eruption. According to research, the smoke from these catastrophic fires could have contributed to a rare triple La Nina weather event, which affected other continents. The fires, known as the Black Summer Fires, also destroyed an area equivalent to half of California and killed 33 people. Children and pregnant people are among those most affected by lingering health effects, such as premature labor, low birth weight, impaired lung development, and other ongoing issues. Australia is one of the biggest greenhouse gas emitters in the world, so new, strict regulations on emissions are vital.

If you want to get active on the issues above, consider joining one of the many NGOs in Australia.

The post 15 Examples of Social Issues in Australia appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

A cover letter is a formal document typically submitted alongside a job application or resume. It serves as a complement to your resume and provides an opportunity for you to introduce yourself to a human rights employer, highlight your qualifications and skills, explain your interest in the job, and convey why you are a strong candidate for the position. In contrast to your resume, a cover letter is more narrative and can include information not found in your CV. It allows you to tell a story about your career, explain career gaps, or address specific job requirements. In this article you will learn how you can create your own cover letter.

Let’s first have a look how a typical cover letter is structured:

Date

Your Name
Your Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Your Email Address
Your Phone Number

Recipient's Name
Organization Name
Organization Address
City, State, ZIP Code

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Human Rights Internship position at [Organization Name], as advertised on your website. With my educational background in [Your Relevant Degree], a deep passion for human rights issues, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact in the field, I am eager to contribute to your organization’s mission and objectives.

Throughout my academic journey at [Your University], I have developed a solid foundation in human rights, international law, and social justice advocacy. My coursework has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations worldwide and the legal frameworks that underpin human rights protection.

My previous experiences have further enhanced my dedication to human rights advocacy. I have had the privilege of volunteering with [Name of Human Rights Organization or Project], where I assisted in researching and documenting human rights violations, organizing awareness campaigns, and collaborating with local communities to promote education and empowerment. These experiences have not only sharpened my research and communication skills but also deepened my commitment to effecting positive change in the realm of human rights.

I am particularly drawn to [Organization Name] because of its exceptional reputation for its work in [specific area of focus, e.g., refugee rights, gender equality, indigenous rights]. Your organization’s dedication to upholding human rights and empowering marginalized communities aligns perfectly with my personal values and career aspirations.

As an intern at [Organization Name], I am eager to contribute my skills and enthusiasm to your projects. I am confident that my strong research abilities, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively will allow me to excel in this role. I am also excited about the opportunity to learn from your experienced team members, gain exposure to real-world human rights issues, and make a meaningful contribution to your ongoing initiatives.

Enclosed is my resume, which provides additional details about my educational background and relevant experiences. I am available at your earliest convenience for an interview to discuss how my skills and passion align with the goals of [Organization Name]. You can reach me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining the dedicated team at [Organization Name] and contributing to your vital work in promoting and protecting human rights worldwide.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Download: Human Rights Cover Letter Template

How to use the human rights cover letter template above

The template above is a good starting point. You can use the text as a basis to formulate your own cover letter. Don’t simply copy and paste and fill in the gaps. Work on your own unique version that sets you apart. Recruiters will notice the difference.

#1 Identify your strongest qualifications and skills

The first step in the process is to identify what information you should put into your cover letter. There are some obvious ones like your master’s degree and previous work experience. However, as an entry level professional you won’t have ten years of experience to draw from. That means you’ll need to explore what other skills/experiences could be relevant. Below are some examples:

I landed my first Amnesty International internship because I had video-editing and photography skills. That’s what the organization needed to cover our vigils for the blogger Raif Badawi. Over time, when I earned the trust of my team, I was able to take on different tasks, that were more in line with my ambitions.

Don’t underestimate what you bring to the table for the organization. Even if you are very young, you have plenty of experiences to draw from. You could be well-versed in the latest social media tools, possibly surpassing the current social media manager’s familiarity (e.g. with TikTok or Mastodon). Your grasp of trends within your age group may align closely with the organization’s target audience, enhancing your ability to connect effectively. Additionally, your fresh perspective and energy could invigorate the team, injecting vitality into a well-established environment. Your potential to introduce unconventional viewpoints may foster positive disruption, and as a relatively “blank slate”, experienced mentors and leaders may find joy in nurturing your development into a thriving professional.

If you are not so sure what other skills could be helpful, consider reading some of our articles:

• 8 Skills to Expand Your Human Rights CV
• 10 Skills You Need as An NGO Development Coordinator
• 10 Skills You Need as Advocacy Officer
• 5 Skills You Might Need in a Human Rights Job

#2 Tailor your experience to the specific job

Tailoring your cover letter to each job application is a strategic move that makes a significant difference in your job search. Unlike generic templates, a tailored cover letters directly addresses the specific requirements of the position, showcasing the relevance of your background and experience, and ultimately setting you apart. Below is an example how you could tailor the same experience “led a volunteer group” to different positions. Please note that you should never “invent” anything that is not true, but you can choose where you put emphasis, what you highlight and what you skip.

#3 A few things to avoid

While there is no universally accepted right way to do cover letters, there are a few things you should avoid in the context of human rights organizations.

• Don’t start with “Dear Sir or Madam”. “Sir” and “Madam” are binary gender-specific terms. Using them may exclude individuals who do not identify strictly as male or female, as well as non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals. If the organization works specifically on such issues, you are better off using a different salutation.
• Don’t include an image. Including a photo can introduce bias into the hiring process. Employers should make hiring decisions based on qualifications, not on a candidate’s physical appearance, race, age, gender, or other personal characteristics. A photo can inadvertently lead to bias, even if unintentional.
• Don’t be overly passionate. Focus on your professional qualifications and how they relate to the position. You won’t get hired just for being passionate and highlighting your passion too much makes you look less experienced.
• Don’t Make It Too Long. Human rights cover letters should be concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy paragraphs or excessive details that may overwhelm the reader. Less than 1 page is enough.
• Don’t Generalize: Be specific in your statements. Don’t make general claims like “I’m passionate about human rights.” Instead, provide examples and evidence of your commitment, such as relevant coursework, internships, or volunteer experiences.
• Don’t Ignore Format and Proofreading: Neglecting proper formatting, grammar, and proofreading can detract from your professionalism. Ensure your cover letter is well-structured and free from errors.
• Don’t Overstate or Exaggerate: Be honest about your qualifications and experiences. Avoid exaggerating or making false claims, as they can be easily verified and may damage your credibility.
• Don’t put your best qualifications at the end. Put them first. In movies it’s great to have the showdown at the end but in cover letters they should come at the beginning. Recruiters are busy people and unlikely to read your entire cover letter at the first glance. You need to make a great impression immediately to be considered for the next round.

How to use AI Tools to improve your human rights cover letter

There is nothing wrong about using AI tools to improve your cover letter. But keep in mind what we mentioned above: Tailor! Be specific! Be authentic! If your cover letter sounds too generic, exaggerates or feels out of touch with your real background, an AI written cover letter will be a disadvantage.

If you choose to use AI, the quality of your prompt matters. You should provide the tool with enough information to return more tailored and unique results otherwise your cover letter will be too boring and generic. Below is an example of a prompt. Flesh it out further. Consider adding some achievements, more nuance and detail.

“Please write a cover letter for the internship position as social media intern at Amnesty International. I have studied the Vienna Master of Arts in Human Rights and wrote my thesis about MOOCs as a tool for Human Rights Education. I have worked in a bar for three years and took dancing classes throughout high school. I also worked at a book store, where I was responsible for accounting and sales. I speak three languages fluently.”

And here are some excerpts of AI responses, that demonstrate how ChatGPT has “translated” the information into a cover letter:

• With my diverse work experiences, and proficiency in multiple languages, I am enthusiastic about contributing my skills […]
• My thesis allowed me to explore innovative approaches to making human rights education accessible to a global audience.
• My work experience has further honed my skills and adaptability. I have spent three years working in a bar, where I developed exceptional interpersonal and communication skills while managing diverse customer interactions. My high school years were dedicated to dancing classes, fostering discipline, teamwork, and creativity.

You might want to tone it down a bit in your cover letter and highlight only what find most relevant. AI tools sometimes exaggerate and you don’t want to display a lack of humility or judgement. Working in a bar for three years will probably not make you an expert in human rights law.

While AI written content is normally grammatically flawless it also lacks soul and surprise. So instead of just entering a prompt and sending off your application, spend time editing it and make it sound more like yourself and be prepared that everything you mention in your cover letter could be subject of a more in-depth conversation in the interview. So if you are not convinced that your dancing classes were fostering discipline, teamwork and creativity, don’t mention it.

Strategies for improving your human rights cover letter

There are a variety of other strategies and tools that you can use when drafting your cover letter. Below are some that I’ve used in my job search frequently.

#1 Mimic the language

Before you write your cover letter, you might want to explore the website of your potential future employer. Familiarize with the terminology and language they use. Take a closer look at the job description as well. Mimicking an organization’s language and terminology helps you align your application with the organization’s culture and values. Organizations often use specific words and phrases that reflect their unique identity, and using these in your cover letter can signal that you’re a good fit culturally.

#2 Improve Readability

In academia and during our studies we are taught to write in a very specific way. Unfortunately, this kind of writing is less effective in other contexts. Your cover letter should be catchy with short sentences and easy to read and understand. Use readability tools to identify sentences that are too long and complicated.

#3 Let others read it

Last but not least, ask friends, family or a former professor to read it. The feedback will help you improve it and you’ll learn something in every feedback loop. If this short guide was helpful and you successfully landed a job, please consider sharing your cover letter with us so we can make it accessible to our readers.

The post Human Rights Cover Letter: Templates, Examples and Tips appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Systemic racism refers to laws, policies, and institutions that give unfair advantages to some racial groups while harming others. In many places, such as the United States, South Africa, Europe, and South Korea, systemic racism remains a persistent issue.

Race doesn’t exist as a biological or genetic fact, but it is a social and political reality. Racism occurs when race is used to justify discrimination and prejudice. Most of the time, this discrimination is directed at people belonging to an ethnic minority or marginalized group. Racism has many forms, but the most pervasive – and most misunderstood – is systemic racism. In this article, we’ll define systemic racism, provide examples, and describe some of the best ways to take action against it.

How is systemic racism defined?

Systemic racism refers to the discriminatory policies and practices baked into society and institutions, including government agencies, the criminal justice system, corporations, and much more. Unlike the racism most people are familiar with, systemic racism does not require an intent to discriminate. That explains why laws and policies that don’t explicitly mention race or ethnicity can still contribute to systemic racism. How is systemic racism different from other forms of racism? To answer this question, we need to define the four main types of racism: individual, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic.

• Individual racism: racist attitudes, beliefs, and actions of individuals, both conscious and unconscious
• Interpersonal racism: racist interactions and expressions between individuals, such as slurs, discrimination, and hateful actions
• Institutional racism: racism within an organization, such as unfair or biased policies and practices based on race
• Systemic racism: racism within all levels of society

Institutional and systemic racism are often used interchangeably. Kwame Ture (then Stokely Carmichael) and Charles V. Hamilton coined the term “institutional racism” in 1967 in their groundbreaking book Black Power: The Politics of Liberation. In this book, the authors define “Black Power” and explore the roots of racism in the United States. They write that institutional racism is harder to identify because it’s more subtle and comes from established and respected societal forces.

What does systemic racism look like?

Systemic racism is a complex, multi-faceted problem, but history provides many clear examples. Here are four to know about:

Segregation in the United States

After the American Civil War ended slavery, the country began a reconstruction project. It was meant to create a society where white and Black people could live together in peace, but it essentially failed. In the wake of this failure, Southern states began creating a system of racial segregation through “Jim Crow” laws. Public services were divided by race, and while the system was supposed to be “separate but equal,” Black citizens nearly always received worse quality schools, hospitals, housing, and more.

A series of laws in the 1960s (the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Fair Housing Act of 1968) officially ended segregation in the United States, but systemic racism still exists today. According to a National Urban League report from 2022, Black Americans get 73.9% of what white Americans get. Their median household income is lower and they benefit less from home ownership. In fact, Black couples are more than twice as likely as white couples to be denied a mortgage or home improvement loan. These are just a few of the many examples of systemic racism in the United States.

Apartheid in South Africa

In 1948, the all-white National Party won the elections in South Africa and established apartheid, a system based on racial segregation. All non-white South Africans, who made up most of the population, were forced to use separate public facilities and live apart from white people. Interracial marriage was criminalized, millions of Black citizens were moved from their homes, and Black people weren’t given any political power or representation.

People rebelled against apartheid for years, and slowly, the international community took notice. By the 1980s, apartheid was failing. In 1994, the government finally caved and the country ended apartheid with a new constitution and leadership. Systemic racism is still a problem. According to the World Inequality Lab, South Africa’s wealth inequality hasn’t changed since apartheid. Black citizens still deal with an inadequate educational system, while many still live in the isolated townships built for Black citizens.

Anti-Roma discrimination in Europe

The Roma people, who are a traditionally-nomadic Indo-Aryan ethnic group, have faced discrimination for centuries. In Europe, they were often enslaved, forced to assimilate, and viewed as criminal, lazy, and deceitful. During WWII, the Nazis persecuted the Roma, stripped them of their citizenship, and eventually imprisoned them in concentration camps. It’s unknown how many were killed, but it could be as many as 500,000.

Systemic discrimination against the Roma in Europe continues. They’re the continent’s largest ethnic minority, and 80% of them live below the poverty line. Because of persistent stereotypes and institutional barriers, it’s harder for Roma people to find work, good housing, good healthcare, and educational opportunities. During the height of Covid-19, Roma people faced heightened risks, as well as a lack of resources. Hate speech against them also increased, as Roma are often blamed for spreading disease.

Minority discrimination in South Korea

South Korea has a strong national identity, which unfortunately has led to many examples of systemic racism against ethnic minorities. In the 2000s, immigration to South Korea increased. This led to an increase in discrimination as well. As a contributor to the Korea Herald explains, skin color matters. While Koreans are at the top of the racial hierarchy, white people are viewed more favorably than people with darker skin, including South Asian and Southeast Asian immigrants, Black people, and Middle Eastern people. The history of the American military in South Korea could help explain this preference for whiteness.

In 2022, Human Rights Watch reported “pervasive” discrimination against racial and ethnic minorities, as well as refugees and foreign migrants. During the early days of COVID-19, foreigners were initially excluded from relief funds. Mixed-race people also face significant discrimination. Because South Korea does not have an anti-discrimination law, systemic racism leaves those affected without legal recourse.

What are the best ways to take action against systemic racism?

By its nature, systemic racism is baked into every level of society, so taking action against it is challenging. It’s not impossible, however. Here are five ways to combat it:

#1. Identify the forms of systemic racism

To take effective action, we must first identify what systemic racism looks like. As experts have explained, systemic racism is more subtle than individual or interpersonal racism. This is often because the issues bleed over from old, overt forms of discrimination, such as racial segregation in the United States and apartheid in South Africa. Laws undid the right for governments and institutions to directly discriminate, but the racist outcomes persist. Once we better understand what practices, laws, and policies are contributing to unequal, race-based outcomes, we can begin to change society.

#2. Donate to organizations fighting racism

Organizations and activists have fought systemic racism for as long as it has existed. Their work includes research, advocacy, aid, training, and much more. Unfortunately, they often struggle to find the funds they need to perform their work effectively. Anyone can participate in anti-racist work by donating their money, time, expertise, and other resources.

#3. Push for changes in laws and policies

Systemic racism survives through laws, policies, and other practices that create unfair outcomes. Because the laws are usually not clearly racist, they’re often ignored. Unequal outcomes are blamed on other factors. Those in power either don’t see the need for change or prefer the status quo where certain groups get more privileges than others. You can take action by drawing attention to these unfair institutions and demanding change. Protests, petitions, letter-writing, boycotts, and other steps can help raise awareness and put pressure on those in power.

#4. Advocate for equity

Undoing discriminatory practices and policies is an essential step, but something new needs to take their place. As places like the United States prove, ending segregation doesn’t miraculously lead to a utopia of equality and fairness. White people were given years of economic, political, and social advantages, leaving Black people and other ethnic minorities far behind. Laws that give everyone the same resources and opportunities ignore this fact and allow inequality to endure. To end systemic racism, society also needs to establish equitable systems that meet people where they are and serve them based on their needs.

#5. Build solidarity

Systemic racism targets a few specific groups, but it ends up hurting everyone. Collective action is essential, which means building solidarity across ethnic and racial lines. Anti-racist organizations and activists understand the importance of solidarity, which is why they often campaign and develop action plans with other groups. To get involved in solidarity work, you can start by educating yourself on the unique ways systemic racism hurts various groups, what activists have done in the years past, and what work is being done now. As the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer said, “Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.”

The post Systemic Racism 101: Definition, Examples, Ways to Take Action appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Human trafficking is the trading of human beings for sexual slavery, commercial sexual exploitation, and forced labor. It affects millions of women, men, children, migrants, LGBTQ+ people, and others. In this article, we’ll provide the most important facts about human trafficking, define the many forms of human trafficking, and discuss the best ways to help. As the drivers of human trafficking – like poverty, armed conflict, and gender inequality – persist, so must the efforts to stop trafficking.

Human trafficking occurs when people are traded for sexual slavery, commercial sexual exploitation, and forced labor. Examples include familial child trafficking, organ trafficking, forced criminality, and “Romeo” sex trafficking. Communities can combat this global issue by tackling its causes.

What should everyone know about human trafficking?

The epidemic of human trafficking has gotten more attention in recent years, but this attention has coincided with another epidemic: misinformation. Inaccurate or misleading information makes it much harder for governments, nonprofits, and individuals to combat human trafficking in their communities and abroad. Here are five facts everyone should know:

#1. Human trafficking takes many forms

While popular media tends to focus on one type of sex trafficking, the reality is more complex and diverse. According to the International Labour Organization, almost 50 million people lived in modern slavery in 2021. 27.6 million were in forced labor while 22 million were in forced marriages. Commercial sexual exploitation is a form of modern slavery, but there are also millions forced to work in agriculture, fishing, construction, manufacturing, mining, and more. Trafficking victims may receive wages, but if the wages are low and working conditions are abusive, it’s still considered trafficking. It’s also still trafficking even if people initially consented to work or sex acts.

#2. Human trafficking happens everywhere, but it’s concentrated in certain places

Human trafficking is a global issue, but it’s more prevalent in certain parts of the world. According to the International Labour Organization, Africa; Asia and the Pacific Region; and Europe and Central Asia have the highest ratios of human trafficking. This picture may not be accurate, however, as the Americas and Arab States don’t collect as much data. A lack of data is a persistent barrier for those combating human trafficking. Without clear information, it’s challenging to assess the problem’s scale.

#3. COVID-19 impacted trafficking

According to the UNODC’s 2022 report on trafficking, which covers 141 countries, the COVID-19 pandemic had “far-reaching implications” for trafficking and the efforts to fight it. For the first time since the UNODC started collecting data, the number of detected victims decreased by 11% compared to 2019. However, this likely means detection efforts suffered due to COVID. There weren’t necessarily fewer victims. As an example, the report suggests that the closure of public spaces likely drove sexual exploitation from more easily detected spaces to “less visible and less safe” areas. The pandemic also had a huge impact on economies and gender equality around the world. Poverty and gender inequality both fuel trafficking.

#4. Many factors drive human trafficking

While trafficking can affect anyone, certain factors impact a person’s risk. Poverty is one of the most important. When people are desperate, they may sell themselves or even their children to survive. They’re also more likely to accept work that quickly becomes slavery. If there aren’t any legitimate employment opportunities, rates of exploitative work increase. Similar issues emerge during armed conflict, which destabilizes the economy and forces people to flee their homes. Migrants and refugees are among the most targeted groups for traffickers. While these factors affect everyone’s risk, women and girls are subjected to more violent forms of trafficking.

#5. Human trafficking has financial implications

While precise numbers are impossible to track, the human trafficking industry could be worth $150 billion a year. Governments, corporations, and individuals around the world benefit from these profits. According to research, countless products including cotton, bricks, cocoa, bananas, and smartphones can be linked to forced labor, including child labor. In 2020, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute identified 83 foreign and Chinese companies directly or indirectly benefiting from the use of Uyghur workers. Since 2014, the Chinese government has been accused of subjecting Uyghurs, who are an ethnic minority, to persistent human rights abuses such as forced sterilization and forced labor. The use of trafficking to create everyday products makes this an issue everyone should care about.

Learn more human trafficking facts.

What are examples of human trafficking?

Understanding what trafficking looks like is essential to prevention and solution strategies. Experts have identified several forms of trafficking around the world. Here are five of the most common:

#1. Forced labor

According to the International Labour Organization, 27.6 million people are in forced labor. Most are in the private sector, while 6.3 million are in forced commercial sexual exploitation and 3.9 million are in forced labor imposed by the state. Agriculture, domestic work, construction, manufacturing and entertainment are hot spots for forced labor. Psychological abuse, physical violence, and debt bondage keep people from running. Debt bondage is a form of trafficking that burdens people with debts they can’t pay off. Forced labor can affect anyone, but it’s more common for people experiencing poverty, children, people without a good education, and people who can’t find regular work. Migrant workers are also vulnerable and can become trapped in countries where they don’t speak the language or know what their rights are.

#2. Familial child trafficking

Trafficking affects over 1 million children every year. 66% are girls, while 58% of all kids are trafficked for sexual exploitation. According to the International Organization for Migration, family members are involved in almost half of all child trafficking cases. Kids from poor areas are most at risk as their parents may feel they have no choice but to force their children to work. Child marriage is another type of familial child trafficking that, according to UNICEF, affects around 1 in 5 girls around the world. While it’s less common, millions of young boys are married off, too.

#3. Organ trafficking

Thanks to advances in science, it’s possible to transplant organs from one human to another. However, the need has always surpassed supply, which creates a market for illegal organ trafficking. According to research, the illegal trade generates around $1.5 billion every year from 12,000 illegal transplants. Unemployed people, people experiencing homelessness, and migrants are especially vulnerable as they may sell their organs to survive. In other cases, traffickers mislead victims about what’s happening. In Nepal, one district is known as “Kidney Valley” because of how many men have been abducted for their organs or driven by poverty to voluntarily sell. Organ removal surgery is risky, so many people end up unable to work or more vulnerable to severe illness.

#4. Forced criminal activity

When traffickers gain control of a person, they often force them to commit crimes. This takes work off the trafficker’s plate and shields them from liability. They weren’t the ones to commit the crime, after all, it was their victim. Instead of offering help, the justice system often punishes survivors without recognizing the abuse and exploitation that led to a crime. In 2013, a report from Anti-Slavery International found that trafficked young people, many from Vietnam, were being forced to work in cannabis factories. When they were discovered, the victims were prosecuted and deported despite their exploitation. In the UK, other common crimes included pickpocketing, ATM theft, metal theft, and forced begging.

#5. The “Romeo” or “lover boy” sex trafficking method

While the media often portrays sex traffickers as dangerous strangers, most sex trafficking victims know their abusers. In fact, many believe they are in a romantic relationship. Known as the “Romeo” or “lover boy” method, this type of exploitation involves a trafficker grooming and manipulating a victim into an intimate relationship. The relationship may seem normal at first, but soon, the trafficker manipulates their victim into sex exploitation. Threats of blackmail and violence are also used to keep victims trapped. According to the Government of the Netherlands, the internet and social media have given traffickers easier access to victims, especially young ones.

How do we stop human trafficking?

Human trafficking is not a new problem, but it’s a persistent one. Because it’s happening all over the world, it can be hard to find hope. Luckily, the solutions to human trafficking are fairly simple, although not easy. Here’s what needs to be done:

End poverty

Poverty is one of the main causes of trafficking. It makes people more vulnerable to trafficking and creates the conditions that drive people to become traffickers. According to the World Bank, almost 8% of the global population lives on less than $2.15 a day while a staggering 47% live on less than $6.85 a day. These meager wages make it harder to access essential services like education and healthcare. If governments substantially address poverty, rates of trafficking would plummet. Individuals can do their part by advocating for better wages, investing in quality public education, and learning what their community needs.

Address climate change

Like poverty, climate change has a compounding effect on every aspect of life. It endangers people’s health, safety, access to education, and much more. As climate change worsens, people are forced to leave their homes. Traffickers target refugees and migrants, especially women and children. Desperation makes these groups easier to exploit and manipulate, while other factors like language barriers, a lack of education about a different country’s laws, and discrimination make it hard to seek help. To fight human trafficking, individuals can draw attention to the climate crisis, advocate for better protections for climate refugees, and demand accountability from the corporations most responsible for C02 emissions.

Achieve gender equality

According to the World Bank, 2.4 billion women of working age are not getting equal economic opportunities compared to men. This doesn’t just affect individual women; it impacts entire families across multiple generations. Gender inequality affects economics, as well. The International Monetary Fund found that if countries with the greatest gender inequality closed the labor force participation gap, they could increase economic output by an average of 35%. Individuals can help their communities achieve gender equality by supporting women’s leadership, empowering girls through education, valuing traditionally “feminine” work, and fighting against gender bias.

The post Human Trafficking 101: Facts, Examples, Ways to Help appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Social justice lawyers, who are also called human rights lawyers, focus on social justice and human rights like racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, worker rights, immigrant rights, environmental justice, and gender equality.

Social justice refers to fairness and equality within society, which includes housing, work, healthcare, education, criminal justice, and much more. Social justice principles argue for equal access to all opportunities, resources, and privileges within society, regardless of a person’s racial background, gender, age, marital status, religion, and other characteristics. Social justice lawyers focus on achieving justice for their clients and holding those who violate their rights and freedoms accountable. In this article, we’ll discuss what tasks a social justice lawyer performs, what salary they can expect, and what career paths are available.

What does a social justice lawyer do?

Like all lawyers, social justice lawyers perform many tasks, but because they’re motivated by justice and human rights protection, they often take on extra responsibilities. Here’s a brief list of what a social justice lawyer might do:

They represent clients who’ve had their rights violated

Many social justice lawyers work within the court system. When they take on a client’s case, which can involve discrimination or another violation of their client’s rights, the lawyer will file a complaint or lawsuit. They prepare for court by conducting research, prepping their client, interviewing relevant parties, writing arguments, and more. A social justice lawyer must understand how the court system works, meet all deadlines on time, and behave professionally. Their goal is to get their client justice.

They work on impact litigation

When social justice lawyers bring cases to court, they want to achieve justice for a specific client or group, but sometimes, it’s about achieving a larger change, too. Impact litigation (also called strategic litigation) occurs when a lawyer brings a lawsuit in hopes of changing a specific policy or law viewed as discriminatory or otherwise unjust. Class action lawsuits are a common method because they show a law or policy has a widespread negative effect, but individual claims can affect things, too. In the United States, Brown v. Board of Education is one of the most famous examples of impact litigation as it began ending segregation. Social justice lawyers and social justice organizations often take a proactive approach and search for impact litigation cases.

They advocate for just and equal policies

Many social justice lawyers are also advocates, which means they work to influence lawmakers and politicians. Using their expertise, they work to shape and promote legislation and policies that protect the rights of marginalized communities and make society a more fair, equal place. That can include working with legislators who are drafting new laws and engaging in lobbying efforts. Because they know the law so well, social justice lawyers play a key role in shaping the future of human rights law.

They help educate the public

Most people don’t understand the laws and policies that shape their lives, which is why the expertise and experience of social justice lawyers are so important. Lawyers can serve as essential guides and educators. Through books, workshops, classes, and other venues, lawyers explain the rights and freedoms people are entitled to, how legislation and policies protect or don’t protect them, and what people can do to empower themselves and their communities.

They work with activists and social justice organizations

Many social justice lawyers collaborate with activists and social justice organizations. It can be in a formal capacity as an employee or board member, or as a supporter, partner, or volunteer. They have many skills to offer and can help activists and organizations navigate potentially risky legal situations, address the root causes of injustice, and advocate for better laws and policies.

They research and analyze data on social justice issues

The best social justice lawyers stay up-to-date on human rights issues, legislative trends, and the effects of systemic injustices. They may perform original research using access to legal databases, primary documents, academic resources, and more, but they also have the skills necessary to discern meaning from pre-existing research. Some lawyers focus on the research side of things while others work primarily in court with clients.

How much do social justice lawyers make?

Social justice lawyers have a wide salary range, which shows the job’s potential for advancement. According to ZipRecruiter, a human rights lawyer in the United States earns an average of $97,846 in 2023. Salaries went as low as $49,500 and as high as $140,000. Most were between $79,000 and $109,500. Specific salaries depend on factors such as:

Experience

More experienced lawyers earn the highest salaries. When you’re entry-level, you have yet to prove your skills and gain the type of experience that makes you valuable to your organization.

Education

All social justice lawyers need a law degree, but if you have additional education or special credentials, you may access jobs with higher salaries. The law school you attended can also affect how much an organization is willing to pay you; prestigious law school grads tend to land the best jobs after graduation.

Location

Your area’s cost of living and its demand for social justice lawyers affects your salary. If you move to a city with a high cost of living, you’re going to earn more than if you moved to an area with a low cost of living, but everything costs more, too. You’re also likely to earn a higher salary if there’s a high demand for social justice lawyers.

Employer

Social justice lawyers work for employers like nonprofits, government agencies, private law firms, corporations, and more. Large private firms and other well-funded organizations tend to offer higher salaries, while nonprofits have tighter budgets and fewer funds.

Specialization

The more specialized your education and experience, the fewer people you’re competing with when it comes to jobs. Some specializations are also in high demand, which affects your salary. Labor, immigration, energy, and health law are just four examples of specializations in greater demand these days.

What career paths are available to a social justice lawyer?

Social justice is a broad field, so there are many career paths (including outside of law) available to a lawyer. You can work at government agencies, nonprofits, private firms, and other organizations. Here are five examples of career paths:

Immigration lawyer

Immigration lawyers work with individuals and families immigrating from one country to another. They can also represent refugees, asylum-seekers, trafficking victims, and anyone else caught up in the immigration system. A lawyer’s job is to walk clients through all the immigration processes, help with any needed translation and interpretation services, connect clients to social services and employment opportunities, and represent their best interests. Immigration lawyers can advocate for laws that protect immigrants, hold those who exploit immigrants accountable, and make the immigration process smoother and less complex.

Criminal defense lawyer

Criminal defense lawyers defend those accused of committing a crime. Their job is to ensure their client’s rights are protected, regardless of their guilt or innocence. Criminal defense lawyers can work as public defenders or private attorneys. This specialization can be difficult as the public and other attorneys may harbor ill will toward a lawyer who chooses to defend those accused of crimes. Criminal justice lawyers can fight against the abuse and exploitation of those accused (and convicted) of crimes, while also advocating for better legal and social protections.

Family lawyer

Family lawyers specialize in domestic and family-related issues, including divorce, domestic violence, child adoption, child support, custody, and so on. Being a social justice lawyer in this field means addressing issues like gender equality, children’s rights, women’s rights, protection against abuse, and more. When it comes to advocacy, family lawyers can fight for legislation that better protects children, people fleeing domestic violence, and others in vulnerable positions.

Medical malpractice lawyer

Medical malpractice lawyers represent people injured by a medical professional. It can be due to improper treatment, negligence, a misdiagnosis, or other error that resulted in harm. Common examples include errors made during childbirth, anesthesia errors, and pharmaceutical errors. These types of cases can be very expensive, so a lawyer interested in social justice can offer pro bono services for those who can’t afford a costly lawsuit. Medical malpractice lawyers can represent those who have been directly injured, as well as the families of those who have died as a result of their injuries. Lawyers can advocate for better safeguards at medical clinics, more thorough background checks for medical professionals, and steps that address the roots of medical errors, which could include racial and gender bias.

Employment lawyer

Employment lawyers can represent employers or employees, but if you’re interested in social justice, you most likely want to work on behalf of an employee. Cases often involve things like wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, whistleblower protections, sexual harassment, and contract violations. They work to protect rights related to gender, age, disability, marital status, ethnicity, and other characteristics often used to justify discrimination. Lawyers can also advocate for better worker protections, better wages, harsher penalties for union-busting, and more.

The post Social Justice Lawyer 101: Tasks, Salary, Career Paths appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Reproductive justice centers on four core values: the right to personal bodily autonomy, the right to have kids, the right to not have kids, and the right to raise kids in healthy, safe environments.

For centuries, people have fought for the right to not have children, the right to have children, and the right to parent in healthy, safe environments. While it’s often confused with reproductive rights, “reproductive justice” is a more comprehensive framework that addresses the gaps and weaknesses in the reproductive rights movement. In this article, we’ll define reproductive justice, provide examples of reproductive justice, and explore where you learn more about this critical human rights framework.

While reproductive rights tend to focus on legal and political reproductive rights like birth control and abortion, the reproductive justice framework expands to the intersectional issues affecting reproductive autonomy, like race, gender, class, power, and access.

Definitions: what is reproductive justice and how does it differ from reproductive rights?

Reproductive rights and reproductive justice are similar, but their differences are important. Reproductive rights refer to an individual’s legal and political rights to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions without force or interference from governments, institutions, and other individuals. While the Universal Declaration of Human Rights doesn’t explicitly mention reproductive rights, articles like Article 12 (the right to privacy) and Article 25 (which gives motherhood and childhood special care and assistance, as well as the universal right to medical care and necessary social services) cover sexual and reproductive rights. Within international human rights law, reproductive rights like accessing contraception, abortion, healthcare services, and fertility treatments are considered essential human rights.

Reproductive justice is based on the belief that reproductive rights are not enough to protect full reproductive autonomy. In 1994, a group of Black women met in Chicago and coined the term “reproductive justice.” It was a direct response to the failures of the women’s rights movement, which had centered middle-class and wealthy white women and left women of color, trans people, and other marginalized groups behind. The term was also created to emphasize the need for access – not just choice – as well as resources and services like contraception, comprehensive sex education, domestic violence assistance, and adequate wages.

In 1997, SisterSong became a national, multi-ethnic reproductive justice movement. Reproductive justice has four core demands, which we quote from this page:

• The human right to own our bodies and control our future
• The human right to have children
• The human right to not have children, and
• The human right to parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities.

Reproductive justice focuses on analyzing economic, political, and social power systems; centering the most marginalized; and addressing intersecting oppressions related to race, class, gender, sex, and more. While reproductive rights are basic political and legal protections, reproductive justice seeks to create a path to liberation.

What are some examples of reproductive justice?

Reproductive justice is a comprehensive framework, but here are three important examples:

Access to birth control and abortion

Birth control and abortion are linked to the right to decide when to have children or to not have children at all. Birth control methods have existed since ancient times, and by 1900, various forms of birth control were widely used. Margaret Sanger (the United States) and Marie Stopes (England) were leaders in the birth control movement, which sought to make birth control legal and accessible. Unfortunately, some of their motives were based in eugenics. As an example, Sanger promoted birth control as a way to limit the reproduction of poor and “feeble-minded” people. Despite the beliefs of its famous proponents, accessible birth control was – and remains – essential to reproductive justice. Oral contraceptives (the pill) became legal nationwide in the United States in 1965 thanks to Griswold v. Connecticut, which ruled that banning birth control violated a couple’s right to privacy. According to the World Health Organization, 842 million “women of reproductive age group” (which is those between 15-49 years old) are using contraceptive methods globally while 270 million need access to contraception.

Abortion has always been around, but by the end of the 19th century, it was illegal almost everywhere in the world. As the 20th century began, countries started to change their laws. As with birth control, the arguments for abortion were not always focused on human rights, but on overpopulation, poverty, and fetuses with disabilities. Modern arguments for abortion have focused more on bodily autonomy and the health of child-bearing persons. Abortion rights have expanded significantly in the past decades. Restrictions exist, but according to the Center for Reproductive Rights, around 59% of women of reproductive age live in countries that “broadly allow” abortion. Choosing when to have kids, when to not have kids, and when to end a pregnancy are critical to an individual’s autonomy, health, and economic well-being, as well as the well-being of families.

Access to comprehensive sex education

Comprehensive sex education is critical to a young person’s development and health. It doesn’t only cover sexual intercourse; good sex education covers a variety of topics. The American Academy of Pediatrics lists subjects such as:

• Body anatomy
• Body image
• Sexual orientation and gender identity
• Consent
• Sexual abuse
• Contraception
• Sexually-transmitted infections
• Reproductive rights and responsibilities

Curriculums vary across the world, but comprehensive sex education should always use evidence-based, medically-accurate information. Students should also get opportunities for safe discussions about topics they encounter in programs. Studies show that comprehensive sex education promotes healthy sexual behaviors, supports an individual’s social-emotional learning, and helps them form healthy, safe relationships. Because sex education should ideally begin when kids are young, it’s often the first form of reproductive justice they’ll encounter. Everyone deserves the same quality of education. Many lack even the most basic information; according to UNESCO, around ⅔ girls in many countries don’t have the information they need when they begin menstruating. UNESCO also found that around 71% of individuals aged 15-24 were looking for sexual education online. The internet represents a space where reproductive justice activism and comprehensive sex education can make a big difference.

Access to pregnancy-related healthcare

As the UDHR makes clear, child-bearing persons and children are entitled to special care. Healthcare is especially important as pregnancy comes with many health risks. The WHO describes how in 2020, around 287,000 child-bearing persons died during and after pregnancy and childbirth. 95% of these deaths happen in low and lower-middle-income countries. Injuries and death come from excessive blood loss, high blood pressure, and infections, as well as conditions like heart disease and malaria. With proper healthcare, most of these deaths are preventable.

What does proper pregnancy-related healthcare look like? The quality of health services is vital, which includes the supply of essential drugs, equipment, and supplies.

Healthcare providers also need proper training in both medical care and gender-inclusive care (trans men and nonbinary persons give birth), as well as adequate facilities. Integrating care with community events can also improve access to healthcare. Equity regarding race and pregnancy needs to be addressed, too. Black women in the UK are four times more likely to die in childbirth while in the US, they’re around three times more likely. Ensuring equal care saves lives and protects the health of adults, babies, and entire families.

Where can you find more learning opportunities about reproductive justice?

If you’re interested in learning more about reproductive justice, courses and books are a great place to start. Here are five courses and five books:

International Women’s Health and Human Rights (Stanford)

This is a great choice if you’re interested in women’s health and human rights issues from infancy through old age. Consulting Professor Anne Firth Murray and Kevin Hsu created the course. Topics covered include reproductive health, women in war and refugee settings, violence against women, and women’s rights as human rights. There are no prerequisites.

Confronting Gender Based Violence: Global Lessons for Healthcare Workers (John Hopkins University)

This course introduces students from the healthcare sector to gender-based violence, health outcomes, seminal research, and clinical best practices for violence prevention, support, and management. Michele Decker (Scd, MPH) from the Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health teaches the course. There are no prerequisites.

Menstruation in a Global Context: Addressing Policy and Practice (ColumbiaX)

This course gives students a foundational understanding of the global menstruation movement, which includes menstrual health and hygiene research, programming, and policies. Students will also gain skills and knowledge about designing MHH programs, researching, monitoring, and advocacy. Marni Sommer, Maggie L. Schmidt, and Caitlin Gruer teach the course.

Religion and Sexual Wellbeing: Pleasure, Piety, and Reproductive Rights (University of Groningen)

This course explores sexuality as a private and public affair, the differences between religion as a lived experience and as a prescription from religious authorities, and the dynamics of the polarization around reproductive rights. Students will also reflect on the different contexts in which people gain sexual knowledge and how to support people in their sexual health and wellbeing. Kim Knibbe, Brenda Bartelink, and Rachel Spronk teach the course. There are no prerequisites.

Improving The Health of Women, Children, and Adolescents: from Evidence to Action (London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine)

In this course, students will learn from experts about improving the health of women, children, and adolescents. Topics include reproductive health, the health of people during pregnancy, newborns, stillbirths, and children’s health. It’s a great choice for healthcare professionals or anyone interested in the subject. Joy Lawn teaches the course.

Killing the Black Body: Race, Reproduction, and the Meaning of Liberty (1998)

Dorothy Roberts

This iconic book exposes America’s systemic abuse of Black women’s bodies and how mainstream feminist and civil rights agendas have excluded Black women’s reproductive needs.

Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free (2023)

Sabia Wade

This book addresses the intersections of systemic issues, like access to healthcare, housing, and nutrition, as they relate to reproductive justice. Written by a radical doula and educator, the book argues that reproductive justice is the key to collective liberation and equity.

Undivided Rights: Women of Color Organizing for Reproductive Justice (2016)

Marlene Geber Fried, Elena R. Gutiérrez, Jael Silliman, Loretta J. Ross

Through research, case studies, and personal interviews, this book describes how women of color have led the fight for reproductive justice.

A Woman’s Life is a Human Life: My Mother, Our Neighbor, and the Journey from Reproductive Rights to Reproductive Justice (2023)

Felicia Kornbluh

This book covers the history of two movements in New York: the right to decriminalize abortion and the fight against sterilization abuse. Kornbluh tells the story of her mother, who wrote the first draft of New York’s law decriminalizing abortion, and their neighbor, a doctor who co-founded the movement against sterilization abuse.

Just Get On the Pill: The Uneven Burden of Reproductive Politics Vol. 4 (2021)

Krystale E. Littlejohn

This book covers the social history and social implications of birth control, how it becomes gendered, and why it creates an unbalanced, unjust approach to pregnancy prevention.

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Millions of people lack housing justice, which is the right to safe, adequate, and equitable housing. Systemic inequalities like racial discrimination, income inequality, weak government policies, and more are the main causes, while people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, women, and refugees tend to face the most challenges. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of housing justice 101, including a thorough definition, examples of housing justice, and learning opportunities.

Housing justice is the idea that everyone deserves safe, affordable, and health-promoting housing regardless of race, income, gender, ethnicity, ability, and more. Initiatives like rent control, tenant organizing, public housing, fair housing laws, and inclusionary zoning help ensure housing justice.

What’s the definition of housing justice?

Housing justice is based on the idea that housing is a human right. Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines the right to adequate housing. The article reads:

“Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing  (emphasis added) and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood,  old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.”

The Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights also adopted the right to adequate housing in 1991, where it was identified as “of central importance” for enjoying every other economic, social and cultural right. The Committee went further in its definition, stating that the right to housing shouldn’t be narrowly defined as a commodity. It should be seen as “the right to live somewhere in security, peace and dignity.” What about the term “adequate?” What does it mean? In a copy of the CESCR General Comment No. 4: The Right to Adequate Housing, the Committee lists seven things that must be accounted for:

#1 Legal security of tenure

Tenure includes things like rental accommodation, leases, and emergency housing. “Legal security of tenure” means everyone must have legal protections against forced evictions, harassment, and other threats.

#2 Availability of services, materials, facilities, and infrastructure

An adequate living space must include certain facilities, like safe drinking water, energy for cooking, heating, lighting, sanitation, waste disposal, emergency services, and so on. These services must also be consistently available. If someone only occasionally has safe drinking water, their housing can’t be considered adequate.

#3 Affordability

“Affordable” means housing costs can’t make it harder to get access to other basic needs. The State needs to take steps to ensure housing-related costs stay in proportion with income levels and give subsidies to those who can’t pay for affordable housing. Renters should also be protected from unreasonable rental costs and increases.

#4 Habitability

Adequate housing needs to provide adequate space and safety from natural elements (cold, heat, rain, wind, etc), structural dangers, disease vectors (like stagnant water), and other health threats.

#5 Accessibility

The Committee states that “adequate housing must be accessible to those who are entitled to it.” The document specifically mentions that groups like children, people with disabilities, survivors of natural disasters, and other disadvantaged groups should get “some degree” of priority. Housing laws and policies also need to fully account for special housing needs.

#6 Location

A person’s home needs to give them access to things like job options, healthcare services, schools, and childcare whether they’re in an urban or rural environment. Housing also can’t be built on or near polluted sites because of the health risks.

#7 Cultural adequacy

Cultural identity and housing diversity should be factored into construction, materials, and housing policies. That includes any activities involving development and modernization. Cultural aspects shouldn’t be threatened.

These seven factors give us a clear idea of what housing justice initiatives should include. As you can see, other human rights – like the right to health, right to adequate work, right to freedom from discrimination – are deeply entrenched in the definition of housing justice.

What are some examples of housing justice?

Housing justice movements are found all over the world, but what are they working toward? It’s not as simple as telling the government to build a house or buy a piece of land for everyone. There are specific and diverse initiatives that may help ensure housing justice for everyone:

#1 Rent control

Rent control policies limit how much landlords can charge. This prevents rent from getting so expensive that properties are no longer affordable for tenants. Policies can look like setting a maximum for each rent increase or capping how much a landlord can ever charge. A study by the Urban Institute found that rent control is generally successful if the goal is to promote stability for people living in rent-controlled units. However, it may not help improve economic opportunity or reduce racial disparities. More research can help determine when and where rent control is most beneficial and what other policies are needed to promote housing justice.

#2 Tenant organizing

Tenant organizing happens when people who rent collaborate and advocate for more rights, better living conditions, and changes to unfair practices. Activities include holding meetings, forming tenant associations, organizing rent strikes, holding eviction protests, and talking to the media. The San Francisco Tenants Union, which has been organizing for over 50 years, is a good example. The union has helped achieve victories like 1979’s Rent Control Ordinance, which restricted rent increases and evictions. They also advocated for Prop C, which taxes major corporations to raise housing funds for people experiencing homelessness.

#3 Public housing

Government agencies operate public housing, which provides affordable rental homes for low-income individuals and families. In the UK, where public housing is called “social housing” or “council housing,” 3.9 million people lived in social housing between 2016-2018. Public housing doesn’t always meet the standards of adequate housing, however. A piece from the Financial Times described the Better Social Housing Review’s report, which urged associations to perform audits and give tenants more power in decision-making. The death of a 2-year-old following long-term exposure to mold in his house provides just one example of why the UK needs to address the quality of its public housing.

#4 Fair housing laws

Discrimination has had a huge impact on housing justice throughout the world. In the United States, policies like redlining kept Black Americans from participating equally in the housing market. The Fair Housing Act, which passed in 1968, prohibited housing discrimination based on race, religion, sex, disability, familial status, and so on. It also requires design and construction standards, like accessible doorways and common areas, and other reasonable accommodations, like allowing service pets. Passing – and enforcing – fair housing laws are vital to housing justice.

#5 Inclusionary zoning

Inclusionary zoning policies require developers to turn a certain percentage of their new units into affordable housing. The goal is to push back against exclusionary zoning, which reinforces racial segregation and economic discrimination. According to Inclusionary Housing, there are more than 1000 inclusionary housing programs in 31 states, which have created 100,000+ affordable housing units in the United States.

Programs vary but include both legal requirements and incentives like density bonuses and housing subsidies.

Where can you learn more about housing justice?

There are many learning opportunities for housing justice, including online courses (like Housing Justice: A View from Indian Cities), workshops, and conferences. You can also look for tenant unions and housing nonprofits in your area for educational resources and volunteering opportunities. What about books? Here’s where to start:

Evicted: Poverty and Property in the American City (2017)

By: Matthew Desmond

This Pulitzer-winning book follows eight Milwaukee families as they struggle to stay housed. Desmond explores issues like poverty, economic exploitation, and solutions for the housing crisis in the United States.

The Right to Dignity: Housing Struggles, City Making, and Citizenship in Urban Chile (2022)

By: Miguel Pérez

Based on fieldwork from 2011-2015, anthropologist Miguel Pérez chronicles a social movement in Chile, where activists and residents fight for better living conditions, the right to stay in their neighborhoods of origin, and recognition as citizens who deserve rights. This book shows what happens when housing is framed as a commodity and not a basic right.

Race for Profit: How Banks and the Real Estate Industry Undermined Black Homeownership (2021)

By: Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor

This finalist for the 2020 Pulitzer Prize in History describes how housing discrimination continued even after fair housing laws. Groups like bankers, investors, and real estate agents exploited Black people – especially Black women – while new policies intended to encourage low-income homeownership made things worse for Black homeowners. Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor argues that instead of ending racist exclusion, changes transformed it into “predatory inclusion.”

Indigenous Dispossession: Housing and Maya Indebtedness in Mexico (2020)

By: M. Bianet Castellanos

In Mexico, tract housing developments exploded into a billion-dollar industry while land reform debates were replaced by neoliberal housing policies. This book explores the impact of replacing traditional housing on Indigenous peoples’ relationships to land, urbanism, and finance. Castellanos describes what Maya migrants experience in one of Mexico’s fastest-growing cities as they deal with predatory lending practices, foreclosure, and other colonial structures.

Housing First: Ending Homelessness, Transforming Systems, and Changing Lives (2015)

By: Benjamin Henwood, Sam Tsemberis, and Deborah Padgett

The oldest book on the list, Housing First remains an important documentation of the Housing First approach, which began in 1992. It challenges the usual process of putting a person experiencing homelessness into shelters and transitional housing programs and assessing their “housing readiness.” The Housing First approach provides people immediate access to permanent housing without preconditions. Does it work? This book lays out the evidence.

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A UNHCR internship in Austria lasts three to six months depending on the department, with interns having the opportunity to work in various fields under supervision and learn about daily tasks and workflows. The internship is mostly office-based and does not involve direct contact with asylum seekers and refugees. The workweek is 40 hours and interns receive a monthly compensation of 1564 euros, with UNHCR covering the difference in case of a lower stipend. Find out more on the official website.

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MSF is an international organization that provides emergency response, health care access, long-term care, mobile treatment, advocacy, and research for vulnerable people around the world. They have offices in over 70 countries and work in a variety of settings, including with refugee, migrant, and displaced communities. In refugee camps, they provide necessary medical care and supplies to ensure the health and safety of refugees temporarily placed there. They also work with other groups displaced by conflict and natural disasters to make sure they have medical care while they are in transition.

MSF offers an internship program through the New York office that takes place three times a year. Interns are paid an hourly salary and can apply to work in a variety of positions, including advocacy, marketing and multimedia, finance, access campaigns, research, and more. Interns must be eligible to work in the US without sponsorship and are responsible for obtaining their own accommodation.

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The ACLU is a US-based nonprofit organization that works to advocate for and protect the rights of individuals as determined by the US Constitution and laws. They work through a network of organizations and law firms to promote policies and enforce laws that protect people’s human and civil rights. The issues they focus on cover a wide range of topics that include immigrant rights, as well as other civil rights topics that directly impact refugee and immigrant communities in the US.

The ACLU has a paid internship program designed to give students and recent graduates hands-on, meaningful experience in areas related to human and civil rights work. All internships are 10-week, 35-hour-a-week opportunities. Students receiving course credit for the internship are not eligible to receive a stipend. Internships are offered in the areas of legal, communications, advocacy, operations, tech & analytics, and special projects. Those interested in working with immigrant rights and other related areas should look for internship positions that would allow them to work with this issue. Find out more on the official website.

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WFP is a global humanitarian organization that works to increase and ensure food security, deliver emergency food assistance, improve nutrition, and build resilience. Two-thirds of the work that WFP does is in conflict-affected countries where they are primarily assisting refugees, asylum-seekers, and displaced people groups. WFP also works heavily in UN-established refugee camps to deliver food, improve nutrition, and increase food security during their temporary placement. All of their current active emergency situations involve assisting people who were displaced by conflict or environmental disaster.

WFP interns must have completed at least 2 years of an undergraduate program and be currently enrolled in a recognized university or have completed a degree in the last 6 months. They must also be fluent in English; other languages are a plus. WFP internships last between 2 and 8 months, and interns receive a stipend of up to $1000 a month, depending on the assigned duty station. Students who are applicants from developing countries may be eligible to receive reimbursement for their travel expenses. WFP internships are advertised on their main employment page.

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US Committee for Refugees & Immigrants (USCRI) is a US-based organization focused on working with refugees, immigrants, unaccompanied minors, and human trafficking victims. They have refugee resettlement programs across the country, as well as programs that work to help other immigrants, children arriving to the US without adults, and survivors of human trafficking. USCRI has a total of 100 branch and affiliate offices throughout the country, including the headquarters in DC.

USCRI offers a variety of paid internships (stipend) in their field offices, and the affiliate offices may offer paid internships as well. Their lists the email for the internship coordinator at each field office, which you can email to find out more about internships opportunities at the individual branch offices. The headquarters no longer offers an internship program. Find out more on the official website.

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UNHCR is the United Nations organization that works to protect rights and build better lives for refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. They provide humanitarian assistance in the form of material aid, advocacy, economic development, protection, and global needs assessments. They work heavily in countries with conflict zones, environmental disasters, and nomadic groups of people to ensure that the most vulnerable communities are protected and provided for both in material needs and in human rights law.

UNHCR offers internships for currents students and recent graduates from UNESCO accredited universities and education facilities. Students must have completed at least two years of undergraduate work to be eligible. UNHCR provides food and transportation stipends for students without financial aid from outside parties; however, students must cover the expense of their own travel to the country of placement and visa applications. Interns can work in the Geneva office or field offices depending on internship availability and preference. Find out more on the official website.

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Masters in Migration and Refugee Studies

A Masters in Migration and Refugee Studies is a graduate-level program that focuses on the study of migration and refugee issues. The program typically combines theoretical and practical components to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities associated with migration and refugee movements. Graduates of a Masters in Migration and Refugee Studies program may go on to work in a variety of fields, including non-governmental organizations, international organizations, governmental agencies, research institutes, and advocacy groups. They may work as policy analysts, researchers, educators, or advocates, among other roles.

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The Migration Studies program offered by Tel Aviv University is a one-year (3 semesters) M.A. program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in humanitarian organizations addressing global migration issues. From debates on free movement in Europe to the Ukrainian refugee situation, many migration issues are at the forefront of today’s discussions and politics.

This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide students with opportunities to critically engage with global issues surrounding migration and policy debates. The program covers a range of topics, including immigration and citizenship policies, perspectives on refugees, asylum seekers and humanitarian aid, and the challenges of social, cultural and economic integration. Students can expect to learn theories, research tools, and analytical models in these areas.

The program highlights world-leading faculty and expert practitioners in the field of migration, offering students specialization in global migration and policy fields with hands-on professional workshops. Additionally, students have the opportunity to spend a semester abroad in one of several exchange programs at universities affiliated with TAU.

However, note that this track is not open to students whose enrollment in the Migration Studies program is supported by United States Federal Student Aid due to restrictions on the use of such aid. Students will also be able to enjoy cultural evening activities and overnight excursions around the country in addition to the coursework.

By the end of the Migration Studies program, students will have gained practical experience and skills necessary to become leaders for real social change, and they will have gained an appreciation for Tel Aviv, a city with a rich immigrant history.

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The M.A. Program in International Migration Studies at the City University of New York offers multidisciplinary education, preparing students for opportunities to work with and advocate on behalf of international migrants and refugees. In today’s world, where racism and xenophobia are on the rise, the program aims to train students to examine how policies shape migrants’ experiences and analyze the social, cultural, economic, and political ramifications of international migration in the United States and beyond.

The program offers students the opportunity to study under leading immigration scholars from various fields, including sociology, political science, English, history, anthropology, international affairs, education, and urban planning. Faculty members study migrants from different parts of the world, often through a comparative lens, and use various research methods ranging from advanced quantitative techniques to in-depth ethnographies of urban communities. Students will gain knowledge in areas such as migrants’ struggles for upward mobility, the experiences of immigrant children in schools, the effects of refugee resettlement in different types of communities, and the building of political power in, by, and for immigrant communities.

Studying international migration in New York City offers unique opportunities to learn about diverse immigrant communities. Students will have access to organizations that are at the forefront of immigration outreach, services, research, policy, and advocacy.

Upon completion of this degree, graduates will be ready for a range of positions in policy, human rights, and advocacy organizations, ethnic studies centers in schools and universities, and government and service agencies. The program also provides excellent preparation for doctoral study. Overall, the M.A. Program in International Migration Studies at the Graduate Center offers a comprehensive and practical education that equips students with the knowledge and skills to address the critical issues facing international migrants and refugees today.

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The School of Applied Language and Intercultural Studies offers a Masters of Arts in Refugee Integration, aimed at addressing the needs of migrants arriving in crisis situations from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. While many European societies have established policies and legislation in place for migrant integration, they lack a comprehensive and cohesive approach to address the needs of those arriving in crisis situations.

The programme provides an in-depth, multi-faceted knowledge of the issues raised by the arrival of international protection applicants and refugees in different jurisdictions. As a full-time student, you will take three core modules in Semester 1, along with a year-long research methodology module. In Semester 2, you will have the opportunity to choose three modules from a range of options. The programme is designed to be timetabled in the evening, generally from 4 pm onwards, with each module being delivered on a seminar basis. The course also features presentations by guest speakers from NGOs and practitioners working with people in refugee-like situations.

By completing this programme, students will gain knowledge and skills necessary to ensure the successful integration of refugees and international protection applicants. Students will also acquire advocacy skills to work on behalf of NGOs and grassroots organizations, further knowledge and training in crisis management, and develop policy documents and advocacy campaigns at the local and national level.

The Masters of Arts in Refugee Integration is a comprehensive programme designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to the displacement of people in refugee-like situations and work towards the successful integration of refugees and international protection applicants.

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DePaul’s MS in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies is the first graduate refugee studies program in the U.S. The program is designed to provide students with a mix of theory and practical experience to prepare them to assist immigrants, migrants, and refugees worldwide. Students will gain a broad-based understanding of the legal, political, and humanitarian resources necessary to address the issues created by these situations.

The program requires two years to complete and most courses are offered in the evening at the Loop or Lincoln Park campuses. As part of the program, students will take courses in law, history, public health, public service, and international studies. They will also gain extensive hands-on training with agencies and institutions assisting displaced people.

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The master’s degree in Refugee Studies is an internationally recognised program that offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex nature of global refugee movements and the diverse local, national, and international responses to forced displacement. The course is designed to provide students with interdisciplinary knowledge of the gendered, economic, political, legal, socio-cultural, and psychological processes related to forced migration.

The course is divided into four core modules: Forced Migration in Global Era, Research Methods, Policy and Practice of Humanitarianism, and Independent Applied Research/Dissertation. Students will also have the opportunity to study specialist options on social, cultural, political, legal, and psychosocial aspects of refugee studies and community development.

A distinguishing feature of the course is its emphasis on the lived experience of refugees and refugee communities. Students will gain a full appreciation of refugee experiences, achievements, and needs. The course will equip students with advanced skills in interdisciplinary analysis and research, with a focus on refugees from the point of view of the law, politics, and anthropology, analysing their experiences on a global and local scale.

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The Master of Arts program in Migration and Refugee Studies is an interdisciplinary program that aims to equip graduates with critical knowledge, research methods, and analytical skills related to current theoretical, legal, political, economic, social, demographic, and psychological issues in migration and refugee studies. The program offers two concentration options, migration or refugee studies, and prepares graduates for careers within governmental, non-governmental, and international agencies, as well as universities, research organizations, and private corporations dealing with issues related to migration and refugee movements.

Applicants seeking admission to the Master’s program should have an undergraduate degree in Humanities and/or Social Sciences of high standing, equivalent to a B grade or higher. The university’s language proficiency requirements must also be met. Prerequisites may be assigned, depending on the student’s academic background, and students with related work, research, or volunteer experience will be given priority. All students are required to complete a thesis according to university regulations. After completion of the thesis, it must be defended in an oral examination during which questions may be asked regarding any aspect of the thesis itself or of courses taken in the program, particularly as they may relate to the thesis.

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Advocates work to change the world. While their responsibilities and focuses can vary widely, they’re all engaging in advocacy, which comes from the word advocatus. In Latin, this means “a pleader on one behalf” or “one called to aid.” What should everyone know about advocacy? In this article, we’ll outline the different types, real-world examples, and unifying principles.

When someone publicly supports the interests of an individual, group, or cause, they’re engaging in advocacy. There are many types of advocacy, as well as methods, but they’re united by principles such as clarity, flexibility, and transparency.

What are the different types of advocacy?

Advocacy is an umbrella that shelters many types of advocacy areas and methods. The three main types are self-advocacy, individual advocacy, and systems advocacy.

Self-advocacy

Self-advocacy is when a person advocates for their own interests. It involves skills like knowing your rights, understanding your needs, and effectively communicating those needs to others. Everyone self-advocates at some point in their lives. Students with disabilities often self-advocate for accommodations in a classroom setting. As an example, a student with ADHD may need to ask their teachers for more time to complete tests or a separate testing location.

Individual advocacy

Individual advocacy is when a person (or group) focuses on the interests of one or a few individuals. It can be informal or formal. Informal individual advocacy often involves family members and friends. As an example, parents often advocate for their child’s needs at school. Formal individual advocacy often goes through organizations like government agencies or nonprofits. When someone is escaping domestic violence, organizations help with shelter, medical care, mental healthcare, financial assistance, and more.

Systems advocacy

Self-advocacy and individual advocacy focus on the needs of one or a few people, but systems advocacy zooms out. It seeks to change things on a local, state, or national level through laws and/or policies. Because it wants to change systems for the long term, this kind of advocacy can be complex. Multiple organizations often work together to research, raise awareness, and pressure legislators. Groups working for gun control in the US are an example of systems advocacy.

What other types of advocacy people should know about?

Within individual advocacy and systems advocacy, there are different settings where advocacy is common. You’ve likely heard of at least three: healthcare/patient advocacy, legal advocacy, and victim advocacy. Here’s what they mean:

Healthcare/patient advocacy

In most countries, the healthcare system is difficult to navigate. It can be especially difficult for people with disabilities, older people, and caregivers. Healthcare advocates, who are often employed by healthcare systems or nonprofits, play an essential role in demystifying the system. Responsibilities include helping with access to care, educating patients, and helping with insurance, administrative, and legal issues. Caregivers often educate themselves on the healthcare system and act as advocates for their family members or friends. There are also healthcare advocacy groups that work for system-wide changes regarding healthcare access, funding, and more.

Legal advocacy

Like healthcare systems, legal systems are complicated and confusing. Legal advocates are trained professionals who help people navigate the justice system. They tend to specialize in specific areas and help groups like children, prisoners, victims of crimes, refugees, and so on. Legal advocacy includes tasks like educating people on their rights and legal options, representing an individual’s best interests in the system, and helping with administrative activities.

Victim advocacy

Victim advocacy is a type of legal advocacy, but they serve slightly different roles. While legal advocacy tends to focus on the law and navigating the justice system, victim advocacy is also about emotional support. Victim advocates help with things like protection orders, safety planning, crisis intervention, and access to mental healthcare. Advocates need to be educated on the law, but many professionals come from therapy or social work backgrounds.

What does advocacy look like?

Most individual advocates and groups rely on a variety of advocacy methods to be effective. Here are four of the most common examples:

Letter-writing/petitions

Writing letters and signing petitions are tried-and-true advocacy methods. Both allow people to raise awareness, clearly articulate their stance on an issue, and present solutions. In the case of petitions, it’s a relatively convenient way for lots of people to express their support for a cause. Effective advocacy writing contains several ingredients, including a clear “ask,” essential facts, and a polished style.

Amnesty International, which is a human rights advocacy NGO, has run “Write for Rights” for over 20 years. Amnesty supporters can get a kit with items like case cards and template letters. Over the years, supporters have written advocacy letters on behalf of prisoners of war, torture victims, political prisoners, and others. Individuals, student groups, and schools participate every year.

Research

Good advocacy is built on good research. Without the facts, advocacy campaigns run the risk of misdiagnosing the problem and the solutions. A poorly-researched campaign can even cause more harm than good. Research is such an important part of advocacy that many groups focus on it above other methods like petitions, protests, or fundraisers. Using experts in data-collecting and analysis, groups release extensive reports on issues like violence, poverty, gender inequality, and more. Other advocates and groups can then use this information when building their own campaigns.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) investigates and reports on human rights abuses around the world. At the time of writing, recent publications included “Access Denied” (which documents how Florida judges are denying young people abortions) and “Trapped in a Web” (which analyzes Hungary’s 2022 elections).

Social media

Social media has transformed advocacy. Essentially anyone with a free social media account can become an advocate, build an audience, and raise awareness for causes. Their reach can go international very quickly and connect advocates in a way they were never able to connect before. While hashtag campaigns and social media organizing can strengthen advocacy, this method is still fairly new and far from perfect. Because it’s so accessible, there are many bad actors and well-meaning, but inexperienced advocates. It can also be challenging to build strong relationships over social media, which is essential to advocacy’s long-term success. Social media can be a good tool, but it shouldn’t be the primary one.

In 2006, Tarana Burke created the #MeToo Movement. Nine years later, the hashtag went viral. Allegations against producer Harvey Weinstein followed, along with reports of assault and harassment from other men in Hollywood. People outside Hollywood began sharing their stories, as well. This social-media-driven movement revealed the scope of what women face every day. While one of the best-known social media campaigns, #MeToo also reveals the limitations of social media activism. The court system continues to be biased against survivors and gender-based violence remains a global issue. It takes more than a hashtag to create real change.

In-person action

In-person action encompasses many activities, including peaceful protests, fundraisers, town halls, workshops, and more. Education, training, and networking are just three goals. Some of the best advocacy happens in person as individuals and groups may find it easier to develop the genuine, long-lasting relationships vital to advocacy. While in-person action isn’t always possible, advocates should embed the person-centric approach into all their actions, even if they need to meet online or by phone.

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States used several in-person actions, including marches, sit-ins, bus boycotts, and more. This era also showed the risks involved with in-person events. Participants and supporters faced physical violence and harassment. Advocates committed to in-person action must prepare for resistance.

What are the principles of advocacy?

Advocacy can look very different depending on its focus and method, but there are unifying principles. Here are three everyone should remember:

Clarity

Good advocacy has clear messaging and clear asks. With very little work, people should be able to understand what the problem is and how it can be fixed. This is the first step to good advocacy, but it’s often the most difficult because many issues are complex. Good advocates are excellent communicators who can frame even the most complex issue in a way most people understand. They’re also very good at determining what “clarity” means for specific audiences and refining their message accordingly. As an example, a group advocating for reproductive rights will use a different message when they’re holding youth events than when they’re speaking to adults.

Flexibility

Situations can change very fast. Whether it’s an individual’s case or a system-wide issue, events impact the problem and what the best solutions are. Good advocates are flexible enough to adapt to new information, adjust their methods, and pivot their messaging. Without flexibility, advocacy is doomed to ineffectiveness or outright harm. As an example, advocacy groups focused on healthcare access needed to shift quickly as COVID-19 spread around the world.

Transparency

Advocacy typically involves speaking on behalf of others, so trust is essential. How do advocates build trust? Transparency. That includes open, honest, and consistent communication about things like finances, leadership structures, messaging, methods, and much more. For advocacy organizations, transparency also means conducting internal audits on systemic problems. As an example, in 2020 Amnesty International found evidence of systemic racism within their secretariat. Responding to major issues within an organization is also part of being transparent. If advocacy groups choose to hide, it damages trust. Without trust, advocacy will have little to no impact.

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Millions of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are in operation today around the world. They tend to focus on political or social causes, and while an NGO can get funding from government agencies and/or businesses, they’re meant to operate without government influence. Why do we need these types of organizations? How do they impact society? Here are fifteen reasons why:

#1. They provide medical care

The Covid-19 pandemic has claimed millions of lives (and counting) and strained healthcare systems around the world. While the pandemic’s worst days are likely behind us, it remains a persistent concern alongside mental health and other medical issues. NGOs engage in activities like research and medical services. Doctors Without Borders is one of the largest and most famous NGOs with a presence in 70 countries. The Carter Center, which was founded in 1982 by former president Jimmy Carter, led a campaign to eradicate Guinea worm disease. In 1986, there were 3.5 million cases every year. In 2021, there were only 14 reported cases. This success story represents the best of what NGOs are capable of.

#2. They assist during outbreaks and pandemics

NGOs provide all kinds of medical care, but during outbreaks and pandemics like COVID-19, they can be especially vital partners. In a post from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, local NGOs were described as being “at the heart of” reaching people during COVID. This is due to the knowledge of local NGOs and the existing trust they’ve built in the community. During the first wave of COVID, Plan India (part of Plan International) reached 200,000+ families with supplies like dry rations, hygiene kits, and education kits. As the virus persists, the NGO continues its work with food aid, PPE, and education.

#3. They address hunger

Famine occurs when countries or regions get hit with extreme food scarcity. Causes include wars, chronic poverty, natural disasters, and climate change. While famines are rare, millions of people still deal with food insecurity. Around 10% of the world’s population deals with hunger. According to a 2022 report published by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the WFP, there are 20 “hunger hotspots” on the brink of famine. Millions would be affected. Getting enough food is essential to every person’s life, so many NGOs focus on or include hunger relief in their programs. Action Against Hunger’s work includes advocacy, emergency assistance, financial planning for women, small business support, farmers’ cooperatives, and more.

#4. They help provide clean water and sanitation

Clean water and sanitation are so important, they’re Goal 6 in the Sustainable Development Goals. Significant progress has been made, but according to UN data, around two billion people don’t have safely managed drinking water. If the rate of progress doesn’t improve, 2.8 billion won’t have safe sanitation and 1.6 billion won’t have safe drinking water in 2030. Humanitarian NGOs include water and sanitation as part of their activities, but some NGOs have a narrow focus. The UK-based WaterAid, which works in 30+ countries, hopes to reach 400 million people with clean water and sanitation services by 2032.

#5. They help during natural disasters

Famines, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters cause immense damage and suffering. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, the United States endured 15 weather/climate disaster events from January-October 2022, resulting in losses of over $1 billion each. As for death, extreme weather disasters between 2000-2019 caused around 475,000 deaths in more than 160 countries. Most humanitarian NGOs provide emergency services. Direct Relief, which is based in the US but also works internationally, offers services like emergency medical packs, hurricane prep packs, oral rehydration salts, and more. NGOs often work in cooperation with governments and intergovernmental organizations like the UN.

#6. They promote equality and fairness in the legal system

Injustice in the legal system can look like unpunished police brutality, racially-biased court systems, the use of the death penalty to suppress political enemies, and unfair laws. Legal-focused NGOs work to protect victimized people, reform unjust, violent systems, and conduct research. One example is Penal Reform International, which works to protect human rights and make criminal justice systems fair. Areas of focus include the rising number of women affected by criminal justice systems and the unnecessary incarceration of children. The NGO has consultative status with the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and more.

#7. They protect wildlife and biodiversity

The environment is connected in more ways than we can count, so if even one species becomes unhealthy, it has a ripple effect. According to the WWF’s Living Planet Report from 2022, wildlife populations decreased by around 69% in 50 years. Latin America has suffered the most, while global freshwater species have declined by 83%. Why does this matter? The loss of biodiversity harms the planet’s health, including human health. Without a wide range of species, wildlife is more vulnerable to threats and eventually extinction. The more species suffer and decline, the more vulnerable all wildlife becomes. Many environmental NGOs focus on wildlife protection, including The World Wildlife Fund, Oceana, and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

#8. They fight against climate change

In 2022, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its sixth report. It laid out a troubling picture of the future if the world does not respond to climate change quickly. If global warming reaches 1.5°C within 2021-2040, climate hazards will increase and put ecosystems and humans in serious danger. Health issues, death, environmental destruction, and more will follow. Many NGOs are fighting to raise awareness and present solutions. Environmental Defense Fund, Greenpeace, and Fridays for Future are just a few examples. Activities include advocacy campaigns, research, protests, partnerships, and educational resources.

#9. They help with economic development

Goal 8 of the Sustainable Development Goals focuses on “decent work and economic growth.” Without an inclusive, sustainable economy, people suffer harms like poverty, a lack of education, a lack of affordable healthcare, and more. This makes economic development a common focus for NGOs. One of the world’s largest anti-poverty NGOs, the Bangladesh Rehabilitation Assistance Committee (BRAC), works in 11 countries. Its activities include banking, microfinance, integrated development (which focuses on pockets of extreme poverty), and urban development. The goal of economic development should be to empower local communities and build sustainability, so countries and regions aren’t dependent on humanitarian aid and emergency relief.

#10. They help protect reproductive rights

Reproductive rights ensure people have the right to decide if and when to have children. Prenatal services, the right to safe childbirth, and the right to abortion are included in reproductive rights. When these rights aren’t protected, individuals, families, and entire communities suffer. NGOs like the Center for Reproductive Rights, which is a legal advocacy organization, work to advance reproductive rights through litigation and court cases. Many humanitarian organizations also have programs for reproductive rights. Plan International works with partners to ensure access to sexual health services and to stop harmful practices like forced marriage.

#11. They advance gender equality

Despite decades of progress, gender equality is still far away. According to a 2022 report from the World Bank, around 2.4 billion women of working age don’t get equal opportunities. Gender-based violence is also a big issue. Around 30% of women have experienced sexual and/or physical violence while around 38% of murdered women are killed by intimate partners. These striking numbers explain why most humanitarian organizations pay special attention to gender equality and the protection of women. NGOs like Womankind Worldwide, Global Fund For Women, and the International Alliance of Women focus on advocacy, funding campaigns, and more.

#12. They protect children

Despite making up around ⅓ of the globe’s population, kids are one of the most vulnerable groups in the world. According to Amnesty International, around 290 million children don’t have their births registered, so they have no legal proof of existence. This makes it much easier to violate their human rights. Over 61 million kids also don’t attend primary school, while around 1 in 6 live in extreme poverty. Save the Children International (based in the UK) is one of the world’s most famous NGOs dedicated to kids. It’s a global membership organization with 30 national members. Its areas of focus include learning, survival, protection, emergencies, and the climate crisis.

#13. They provide education

Education is another major focus for NGOs and for good reason. A lack of education access is linked to things like poverty, gender inequality, poorer health and safety, and more. Girls are still more likely to miss out on education compared to boys; around 129 million girls aren’t in school. Humanitarian NGOs like Save the Children, CARE, and Plan International have programs focused on education, especially for girls. Education International, which is headquartered in Belgium, is a global union federation of teachers’ trade unions. It has a presence in 172 countries.

#14. They protect refugees

The UN defines refugees as people who leave their homes because of persecution of religion, race, nationality, membership in a group, or political opinion. As of May 2022, 100 million people were forcibly displaced. The war in Ukraine and other conflicts were responsible for the increase of 10.7 million from the end of 2021. Refugees face many challenges, including an increased risk of trafficking and sexual violence, so many NGOs focus their efforts on helping refugees. Some examples include Refugees International, the International Rescue Committee, and RefugePoint.

#15. They protect democracy

According to Freedom House’s 2022 report, global freedom has declined in the past 16 years. While only 25 countries that year saw improvements in their democracy, 60 experienced declines. Today, only 20% of the world’s population lives in what Freedom House classifies as a “Free” country. NGOs like Freedom House, Protect Democracy, and Amnesty International play an important role in protecting and promoting democracy. Activities can include advocacy campaigns, research, litigation, training, emergency assistance for human rights defenders, and more.

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NGOs are social and political organizations that work independently from governments. Most NGOs are nonprofits, but not all nonprofits are NGOs. While it’s difficult to count how many NGOs exist today, 2021 data from The U.S. Department of State estimates there are 1.5 million NGOs working in the US alone. Which ones are the biggest? This article describes 15 influential NGOs located in places like the United States, Europe, and South Asia.

#1. Save the Children

Established in: 1919
Global presence: 120 countries

Based in London, this international NGO works to improve the lives of children through healthcare, education, emergency aid, economic development, and more. As a global movement, the NGO has 30 national member organizations around the world. Areas of focus include hunger, health, education, policy and advocacy, the climate crisis, and the war in Ukraine.

In 2021, Save the Children and its member organizations reached almost 43 million kids and responded to 103 humanitarian emergencies. Their combined revenue was around USD 2.2 billion.

#2. Oxfam International

Established in: 1942
Global presence: 90+ countries

Oxfam is an anti-poverty organization that focuses on water and sanitation, gender justice, conflicts and disasters, and much more. Since 2015, the NGO has reached over 3 million people in Yemen with services like clean water, sanitation, hygiene, and cash for food. In Syria, where millions have been forcibly displaced since 2011, Oxfam works in eight of the 14 governorates focusing on clean water, hygiene kits, farmers, and more. Oxfam also has charity shops around the world (most are in the UK) that sell donated and fair-trade items.

According to the 2020-2021 annual report, Oxfam reached over 14 million people with their COVID-19 response; worked with 1.7 million people on gender justice; and made USD 912 million in total income.

#3. Doctors without Borders

Established in: 1971
Global presence: 70+ countries

Based in France (where it’s known as Médecins Sans Frontières), Doctors Without Borders is a medical NGO working in conflict zones, areas affected by natural disasters, and areas with endemic diseases. Their focuses include antibiotic resistance, maternal health, HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, vaccinations, mental health, and more. They use 14% of their income on fundraising, 85% on programs, and 1% on management and general admin.

In 2021, the NGO performed over 12.5 million medical consultations; gave 1.6 million vaccinations; and saw over 1 million patients in MSF hospitals and clinics. After adjustments, MSF had a surplus of €169 million. MSF gets most of its funding from private income, which includes individuals and private foundations.

#4. BRAC

Established in: 1972
Global presence: 11 countries

BRAC is an international development NGO based in Bangladesh. Because of how many employees it has, it’s the largest NGO in the world. It works in every district in Bangladesh as well as in countries like Kenya, Liberia, Afghanistan, and Myanmar. It focuses on social development like microfinance, disaster risk management, education, gender justice, and water and sanitation. BRAC also has several social enterprises, which are self-sustaining, cause-driven businesses. These help the NGO fund itself.

According to its 2021 annual report, almost 2 in 5 people in Bangladesh received support from BRAC. 11.5 million accessed financial services and awareness; USD 4.5 billion in loans were disbursed; and 190,000 kids got access to education. The NGO also had over 4 billion Taka in total assets.

#5. World Vision

Established in: 1950
Global presence: 100+ countries

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian NGO focused on issues like poverty, education, child protection, disaster relief, economic empowerment, and clean water. Children are the NGO’s top priority. In 2022, World Vision helped 3.2 million kids through child sponsorship; assisted 31.1 million refugees and disaster survivors; and gave 3 million people clean water access. World Vision has around USD 1 billion in operating revenue. It spends 90% of its revenue on programs, 6% on fundraising, and 4% on management and general administration.

Note: World Vision’s moral guidelines for employees have caused controversy. In 2014, the NGO announced it would begin hiring employees in same-sex marriages, but World Vision quickly reversed course after losing sponsors. At the time of writing, it appears the NGO is maintaining its discriminatory policy.

#6. International Rescue Committee

Established in: 1933
Global presence: 40+ countries

The International Rescue Committee, which was originally founded in response to people fleeing Nazi Germany, helps refugees affected by humanitarian crises like disasters and conflict. Areas of focus include safety, health, economic well-being, empowerment, and education. As women and girls are among the most vulnerable, the NGO pays special attention to their needs. The IRC works in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and the United States.

In 2021, the NGO reached 31.5 million people, resettled people from 32 countries in the United States, and reached over 1 million people with malnutrition prevention services. Total revenue in 2021 was USD 979,512 while net assets were USD 245,790.

#7. Catholic Relief Services

Established in: 1943
Global presence: 100+ countries

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is an international humanitarian NGO and a member of Caritas International, which is a global network of Catholic humanitarian agencies. Originally founded to aid European refugees in WWII, the NGO expanded its work to emergency relief, long-term development, and human rights protection.

In 2021, CRS reached 193 million people in 116 countries. That includes providing over USD 75 million in cash and vouchers for displaced people in Gaza; restoring 503,096 acres of land in Central America; and helping 221,396 children and adolescents with HIV get treatment. CRS’ total operating revenue was USD 1,191,928 in 2021. 93.5% is spent on program services with 6.5 spent on support services like fundraising and general administration.

#8. Danish Refugee Council

Established in: 1956
Global presence: 40+ countries

The Danish Refugee Council was formed after WWII in response to the Soviet invasion of Hungary. Today, it’s the largest NGO in Denmark. It works in every stage of displacement, provides humanitarian aid and protection, and works with civil society and authorities to promote refugee rights. The Danish Refugee Council is an umbrella nonprofit with 33 member organizations, so it has a presence in over 40 countries including countries in Europe, Asia, and West and North Africa.

In 2021, the NGO’s Executive Committee approved the new global DRC Strategy 2025, which lays out the organization’s strategy for the next few years. As forced displacement increases, the DRC has its work cut out for it. In 2021, the DRC achieved a DKK 25 million profit.

#9. CARE International

Established in: 1945
Global presence: 100+ countries

CARE International is an anti-poverty NGO that focuses on areas like gender equality, the right to health, climate justice, the right to food and clean water, and so on. Girls and women are a top priority. They use the Sustainable Development Goals as a guide for tracking progress.

In 2022, CARE reached 174 million people directly in 111 countries. From 2015-2021, CARE helped 4.4 million kids access better quality or more inclusive education. 73.9 million people received humanitarian and basic services or experienced reduced poverty. In the fiscal year (July 2021-June 2022), CARE USA spent USD 658,572 on program activities and USD 56,703 on supporting activities.

#10. Amnesty International

Established in: 1961
Global presence: 150+ countries

Amnesty International is an advocacy NGO based in the UK. It claims to have more than ten million members and supporters. Its goal is to promote and protect human rights through awareness campaigns and mobilizing the public. Areas of focus include torture, the death penalty, police brutality, and climate justice.

AI’s impact includes freeing immigrants and asylum-seekers kept in unlawful detention and helping change public opinion on issues like the death penalty. In 2021, AI raised €357m for human rights work. 45% was spent on human rights research, advocacy, campaigning, and education.

#11. ActionAid International

Established in: 1972
Global presence: 45 countries

ActionAid is an international NGO working to end poverty, gender inequality, and injustice. It focuses on women, politics and economics, land and climate, and emergencies. Women’s rights are woven through all the NGO’s activities. Its head office is in South Africa, but it has hubs in Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

In 2021, ActionAid’s humanitarian work reached over 3 million people, including over 500,000 children and over 900,000 women. Its total income was €224 million. It spent 64% of that on programs, 18% on support, and 16% on fundraising.

#12. Direct Relief

Established in: 1948
Global presence: 80+ countries

Direct Relief is a California-based humanitarian aid NGO focused on health. Its work includes disaster relief (hurricanes, wildfires, outbreaks, etc) and longer-term aid like supporting healthcare providers, community health, and maternal health. It works in places like Asia, Africa, Mexico, South America, and the United States.

In 2021, Direct Relief provided over USD 1.6 million in specifically-requested medical supplies and medicine, as well as more than 94 million masks, 31 million gloves, and other PPE. The NGO received USD 1.93 billion in public support and spent USD 1.7 billion on assistance around the world.

#13. Action Against Hunger

Established in: 1979
Global presence: 50+ countries

This NGO focuses on ending world hunger and assisting malnourished children. Its solutions include treating malnutrition, strengthening food security, empowering parents, expanding clean water access, and more. Action Against Hunger works in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas.

Across the world, Action Against Hunger serves more than 26 million people. According to its 2021 audited financial statement, the NGO’s total revenue was USD 116,826,140. It spent USD 75,858,609 on program services.

#14. Anti-Slavery International

Established in: 1839
Global presence: 20+ countries

Anti-Slavery International, which was founded in the UK, is the world’s oldest international human rights organization. It focuses on ending slavery in all its forms, including human trafficking, child slavery, and child marriage. Activities include working with survivors; supporting and promoting legal frameworks for ending slavery; and changing systems that allow exploitation.

In 2021, Anti-Slavery International supported 17,880 people and 14 anti-slavery partner organizations in 10 countries. The NGO also raised £3,166,278 during the 2020-2021 financial year and spent £2,937,095 on ending slavery and fundraising.

#15. Plan International

Established in: 1937
Global presence: 75+ countries

Plan International is a humanitarian and development NGO focused on children’s rights and gender equality. Areas of focus include quality education, protection from violence, sexual and reproductive health, emergencies, and youth empowerment.

According to its 2022 review, Plan International worked in 83 countries. It reached over 4.5 million girls with early childhood development programs and over 5 million girls with its sexual and reproductive health and rights programs. It had a €1.1 billion income. For every euro spent, 80 cents were spent on programs, 12 cents were spent on raising funds and getting new supporters, and 8 cents were spent on HR, finance, etc.

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Social justice is built on the pillars of human rights, equity, participation, and access. When a society is just, everyone is respected, supported, and protected. Achieving social justice isn’t easy as there are many issues that need to be addressed. Here are 15 examples:

#1. The gender pay gap

Around the world, the gender pay gap is one of the slowest-moving social justice issues. There’s been progress, but according to the World Bank’s Women, Business, and the Law 2022 report, around 2.4 billion women of working age aren’t getting equal economic opportunities. 95 countries don’t ensure equal pay for equal work. When it comes to lifetime earnings, how big does that gap end up being? Globally, The World Bank Managing Director of Development Policy and Partnership says women make about $172 trillion less than men. Some areas are doing better than others. According to the WE Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, only five countries got scores higher than 0.800 on wage equality for similar work: Albania, Burundi, Algeria, Iceland, and Singapore. Unfortunately, wage equality for similar work has gone down since 2021 in seven countries, including China and Cambodia.

#2. Income inequality

The gender pay gap contributes to income inequality, but it’s not as if all men are doing well financially. Income inequality concerns people within states and the wealth between states. When the pandemic struck, global income inequality got worse and even undid some of the progress of the past 20 years. While the global economy rebounded in 2021, the World Bank estimated that global growth would decelerate from 5.5.% in 2021 to 3.2% in 2023. Inflation is also a major issue. However, while people fall into poverty, the world’s ten richest men more than doubled their fortunes during the first two years of the pandemic, earning an average of $1.3 billion a day. It’s hard to think of something more unequal than that.

#3. Climate change

Many factors drive climate change, such as agriculture, offshore drilling, fracking, and more. Despite decades of warnings and serious events like drought and hurricanes, fossil fuel emissions are not improving. The past seven years were the warmest on record. Scientists agree that if significant change isn’t made, temperatures will continue to rise. Extreme weather events will become more frequent and billions will be at risk. Fighting climate change is important because it affects other issues, such as food security, poverty, gender equality, and more.

#4. Food insecurity

With climate change, supply chain issues, and inflation, food insecurity is an ever-present issue. Things got especially dire in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine and blockaded Ukrainian ports, cutting off grain exports to the rest of the world. While events like war trigger food insecurity, increased hunger has been on the rise for years. The 2022 edition of The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report found that hunger affected around 828 million people in 2021, which reflects a 46 million people increase.

#5. The refugee crisis

According to the UN Refugee Agency, over 2 million refugees will need to be resettled in 2023. That’s a 36% increase from 2022. There are a few reasons why, including the pandemic, climate change, conflict, and more. Women and children are especially vulnerable to trafficking and violence. According to a report from Save the Children, “likely all children” migrating to Europe through the Balkans faced violence. Police and smugglers were the most common perpetrators. Both the resettlement and safety of refugees as they migrate are must-address social justice issues.

#6. Universal healthcare

“Good health and well-being” is the third Sustainable Development Goal. It’s closely linked to other goals such as clean water, sanitation, and zero hunger. To achieve this goal, universal healthcare is essential. The need for it was made blatant during the COVID-19 pandemic, but healthcare systems around the world were already failing many people. According to the WHO, over 930 million people spend at least 10% of their household income on healthcare. Because of out-of-pocket spending, 100 million people fall into poverty each year. Universal healthcare, which ensures everyone has access to all the healthcare they need without financial hardship, is one of the most urgent social justice issues.

#7. Poverty

The world has been trying to deal with poverty for many years, but according to the World Bank, it’s unlikely to end extreme poverty by 2030. COVID-19 was a big reason why. In 2020, 70 million people fell into extreme poverty. This number represents the largest one-year increase since 1990 when the world started monitoring global poverty. Extreme poverty, which is defined as earning less than $2.15 a day, concentrates in areas where it’s hard to address, such as rural areas, Sub-Saharan Africa, and areas with conflict. Ending poverty is complex and involves addressing other social justice issues, such as low-quality education, inferior healthcare, gender inequality, and so on.

#8. Gender-based violence

Gender-based violence is a global issue. According to the WHO, about 30% of women have endured physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime. Most violence is perpetrated by an intimate partner. This type of violence affects a person’s sexual, mental, emotional, and physical health. The violence can also be fatal. Around the world, around 38% of murdered women were killed by their intimate partners. Reports, like the one released by the United States Institute of Peace, found that COVID-19 made gender-based violence worse. How can gender-based violence be addressed? It requires a multi-faceted approach. Improved gender equality, early education, better legal protections for women, and more are essential pieces of the puzzle.

#9. State violence

Violence perpetrated by the state is a growing concern. We’ve seen several examples in just a few years. In 2020, U.S. protests against police brutality were met by more excessive force in places like New York City, where police officers trapped protesters. Unable to leave, the protesters were trapped until the start of the city-wide curfew, after which the police began attacking them without warning. A report by Human Rights Watch stated that “the police response to the peaceful Mott Haven protest was intentional, planned, and unjustified.” In 2022, Iran (which already has a long history of state violence) responded to peaceful protests with brutality. While exact numbers are hard to come by, hundreds of protesters could have been killed, including many children.

#10. Threats to the trans community

The LGBTQ+ community as a whole is vulnerable to violence and discrimination, but the trans community has been facing an increasing number of threats. The United States provides many disheartening examples. In Florida, the state board of medicine agreed to start the process of barring minors from receiving puberty blockers, hormone therapy, or surgeries to treat gender dysphoria. This goes against organizations like the American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, which support gender-affirming care for young people. Meanwhile, in Keller, Texas, a school board voted to ban all books that even mention gender fluidity. Actions like this represent a concentrated effort to roll back rights for LGBTQ+ people.

#11. Eroding democracy

Freedom House, an organization that conducts research and advocacy on democracy and political freedom, has found that global freedom is declining. In their 2022 report, they found that while only 25 countries improved their democracy, 60 countries got worse. 2023 could be worse for places like Southeast Asia where in Myanmar, the junta continues to rule. Freedom is also threatened in Afghanistan where the Taliban have once again taken over. In November, the Taliban ordered judges to impose its interpretation of Sharia Law, which could open the door to even worse human rights violations.

#12. Political extremism

Eroding democracy is closely linked to political extremism, which is becoming an increasingly urgent problem. On January 6th, 2021, a riot of Trump supporters attacked the United States Capitol in an attempt to stop the electoral vote count. This represents a trend of overtly violent political extremism, which has included a mass shooting in Buffalo and an attack on the husband of Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker of the House. Political extremism isn’t limited to the United States. A ProPublica article published not long after the insurrection outlined a growing international network of right-wing extremists. It’s been happening for years. While the world focused on Islamic extremism following 9/11, right-wing extremism grew fairly unhindered.

#13. Cybersecurity threats

According to the WEF’s Global Risks Report 2022, cybersecurity vulnerabilities are a major concern. In wake of the pandemic, many economies underwent rapid digitalization. While useful, that has increased the risk of cyberattacks. 2022 saw some significant attacks, including in Costa Rica, where a cyber gang known as Conti disrupted financial operations. The Ministry of Finance was targeted, leading the country to declare a national emergency. What does this have to do with social justice? Cybersecurity is closely related to issues of privacy and safety, which are social justice issues. Who gets access to the best cybersecurity measures is also a social justice issue. As this blog post by Merritt Baer points out, cybersecurity is a wealth discrimination issue.

#14. Reproductive rights

Reproductive rights are linked to other social justice issues like gender equality, healthcare, poverty, LGBTQ+ rights, and more. While it’s not the only reproductive right, the right to abortion remains a significant concern. Worldwide, the laws vary, though many countries only allow abortion to save the mother’s life. In places like the Philippines, Iraq, Andorra, Congo, and Egypt, abortion was prohibited completely at the time of writing (2022). Abortion rights can also be taken away. In June, the US Supreme Court overruled Roe v. Wade, saying that abortion was not a constitutional right. In an even more concerning move, some states are already targeting birth control.

#15. Racism

Racism takes many forms, but it remains a persistent social justice issue. Throughout 2020, a wave of anti-Asian hate crimes surged around the world. An article in Time collected various statistics from places like New Zealand, which found that 54% of Chinese survey participants had experienced discrimination. In the UK, hate crimes against Chinese, East, and South East Asians rose by as much as 300% compared to data from 2018 and 2019. Racism against Black people is still prevalent, too. The National Urban League released its annual report in 2022, reporting that while Black Americans made economic and health gains, white people were still ahead in education, social justice, and civic engagement. These are just two examples of racism and why it needs to be addressed.

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According to the United Nations Charter, non-governmental organizations are organizations with a consultative role with the UN. Today, the term “NGO” refers to a huge variety of organizations independent from governments that conduct human rights, humanitarian and development work. NGOs can work regionally with a small staff or internationally with hundreds of people working on various projects. In this article, we’ll discuss the history of NGOs, what types exist, how NGOs are funded, and what are some of the best-known NGOs in the world.

While there is no definitive definition of an NGO, NGOs are typically non-governmental, non-profit organizations working in areas like human rights, humanitarian aid, and other social and political issues.

A brief history of NGOs

Charitable groups existed long before the term “NGO” ever appeared in the UN Charter in 1945. These organizations were often religious and focused on issues like poverty. One of the oldest organizations of this type was founded in 1617 by St. Vinvent de Paul. Known as the Ladies of Charity, the organization focused on poverty in France. They remain operational and perform activities such as running a clothes and food pantry, providing groceries during holidays, and distributing religious materials.

In the 19th century, organizations dedicated to abolition began appearing. The Anti-Slavery Society formed in 1839 and a year later, held the world’s first anti-slavery convention in London. The following decades were busy as the organization promoted alternatives to sugar grown on slave plantations, helped establish the first comprehensive anti-slavery treaty, and campaigned against King Leopold II’s slavery practices in the Congo Free State. The organization still exists today under the name Anti-Slavery International.

As globalization increased, so did NGOs. As Peter Hall-Jones writes, the surge in NGOs can also be attributed to the World Bank and IMF public services cuts. As independent organizations, NGOs have had more freedom and flexibility to fill in where needed. NGOs have also enjoyed higher degrees of trust, though because of NGOs’ funding ties to governments and corporations – as well as patterns of abuse – many NGOs struggle with maintaining their reputations. While it’s hard to get the exact number of NGOs in operation today there are as many as 1.5 million in just the United States.

How many types of NGOs are there?

NGO is a vague term, so many types of organizations fall under the NGO umbrella. In a 2014 summary, the World Bank described how it classifies NGOs. There are two main categories: operations NGOs and advocacy NGOs. Operations NGOs focus on designing and implementing development-related projects while advocacy NGOs “defend or promote a specific cause” and want to influence the World Bank’s practices and policies. The World Bank goes on to classify operations organizations as community-based organizations (CBOs), national organizations, and international organizations.

Membership vs. non-membership

NGOs can be broken down further based on their structure. NGOConnect has a 2011 “NGOTips” document that outlines different NGO types, including the difference between membership and non-membership organizations. In membership organizations, members are the top leadership and typically perform activities that are beneficial to the members, i.e. a veteran or teacher’s organization. In formal membership organizations, members may have the power to appoint the board of directors, remove a director, change policies, or even dissolve the nonprofit completely.

In non-membership NGOs, the board of directors is the ultimate authority. This structure makes things less complicated as it limits how many people have power. Most larger charities focused on serving the general public are non-membership organizations. You may still hear non-membership NGOs refer to donors as “members.” However, as attorney Christine Mathias writes in her article on the difference between membership and non-membership nonprofits, this is a fundraising tactic and doesn’t bestow any legal power.

Important acronyms

Most people won’t think about NGOs in terms of membership vs. non-membership; they’ll classify NGOs based on their missions and what they focus on. Here are some acronyms you might come across:

INGO (international NGO) – A self-explanatory acronym, INGOs refer to international NGOs like Amnesty International.

ENGOs (environmental NGOs) – Environmental NGOs first spread in the 1970s and 1980s. Some of the most famous include the World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace.

YOUNGO (youth NGO) – Youth NGOs focus on the rights of children and youth. YOUNGO is also the name of the official youth constituency at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. It’s made of organizations and individuals; any young person is eligible to join.

RINGO (religious international NGO) – RINGOs are organizations with close ties to religious organizations. World Vision, a Christian humanitarian organization, and Islamic Relief Worldwide are both examples of RINGOs. We’ve also seen RINGO used to refer to “research-oriented and independent organizations” in UN documents. These are non-profit, independent organizations committed to addressing climate change, finding ways to reduce greenhouse gases and climate impacts, and bridging science and policy.

BINGO (business-friendly international NGO) – This acronym typically refers to large NGOs. You may see it refer to Business and Industry NGOs, as well, which are NGOs established by a business or industry to represent their interests.

CSO (civil society organization) – The UN defines CSOs as any non-profit, voluntary citizens group organized locally, nationally, or internationally. CSOs serve several functions, including providing services and advocating for causes. The term is often used interchangeably with NGO.

How are NGOs funded?

To pay for their operations and programs, NGOs receive funding through a variety of channels, such as membership dues, selling goods and services, philanthropic foundations, and grants. Private donations also make up a significant chunk of funding for most NGOs. Very wealthy people often donate large sums. After pledging to give away most of her health in 2019, MacKenzie Scott had donated around $12 billion to over 1,200 nonprofits by May 2022. NGOs love getting these rare, huge donations, but they’re also dependent on a large number of small donations. Many NGOs also receive government funding, which may affect the appearance of independence, if not the reality.

Private donations to NGOs are often tax deductible. In the US, the organization must have 501(c)(3) status, which means it meets the IRS’ qualifications. As part of the exemption, a charitable organization has to make its approved application, supporting documents, and last three annual information returns public. NGOs focused on politics may not qualify because 501(c)(3) groups are forbidden from participating or intervening in political campaigns for a candidate. Nonpartisan political groups often qualify, however, including NGOs focused on voter education and increasing voter turnout. Not all NGOs are tax deductible, so donors should always make sure before attempting to write their donations off on their taxes.

What are the best-known NGOs in the world?

There are likely millions of NGOs in the world with varying mandates, but some are more famous than others. Here are some of the largest and best-known operating today:

International Rescue Committee

Abbreviated as IRC, this refugee-focused NGO works on projects related to WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene), shelter, education, self-sufficiency, and resettlement. IRC works in over 40 countries.

Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières)

With a presence in 60+ countries, Doctors Without Borders is one of the world’s most recognizable NGOs. Since 1971, it has provided medical aid in conflict zones and following natural disasters. It is currently reckoning with allegations of widespread racial discrimination among its staff.

Amnesty International

Amnesty International was first founded in 1961 to support amnesty for political prisoners, but it has since expanded to campaign against torture, the death penalty, discrimination, and other human rights abuses. It has a presence in 150+ countries.

Catholic Relief Services

One of the world’s largest international religious NGOs, Catholic Relief Services works in microfinancing, WASH projects, emergency response and recovery, education, agriculture, and health. It has a presence in 100+ countries.

Bangladesh Rehabilitation Assistance Committee (BRAC)

While it operates in fewer countries than other NGOs on this list (it works in 11 countries), the number of people served in those countries has made BRAC one of the world’s largest anti-poverty NGOs. The organization focuses on social development and economic participation in its mission to eradicate extreme poverty, achieve gender equality, address climate change, and more.

Are NGOs doing a good job?

NGOs serve a valuable purpose in a world with increasing inequality, weakening democracy, and escalating climate change. Annual reports reveal how much NGOs are capable of. As an example, Water School (a charity working to improve clean-water access in Uganda and Kenya) accomplished many goals in 2021 such as providing WASH training and reducing severe diarrhea cases by 97% across 12,000 households. If you are interested in learning more about the work of NGOs, consider taking an online course.

For the good it accomplishes, the NGO field is not immune to criticism, nor should it be. A common criticism relates to the power wielded by Western-based NGOs that come into other countries. Regional NGOs, grassroots organizations, and government institutions could see their influence and resources diminished in favor of foreign-led programs. NGOs are also not invulnerable to bureaucracy, corruption, and the other issues that plague both governments and businesses. NGOs can both do good and cause harm – sometimes simultaneously – which makes transparency, accurate reporting, and accountability essential.

The post What Is An NGO? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Despite celebrating their status as a “young and free” country in their national anthem, Australia is no exception to the several human rights abuses that occurs within the nation. In this article, we’ll explore the plethora of human rights issues that challenge Australia today, ranging from its systemic discrimination towards its Indigenous people to the freedom of expression on Australian soil.

#1 Refugees Rights

Despite proposals on terminating asylum seeker offshore processing in Papua New Guinea and Nauru, the Australian government has made the decision to continue its policy indefinitely, sparking criticism from human rights activists worldwide. Since its inauguration in 2012, all asylum seekers who arrive by boat are required to undergo mandatory indefinite detention and processing offshore. Several refugees who have transferred from Papua New Guinea and Nauru have been detained in hotel rooms with limited sunlight, fresh air and room to exercise. At least 12 refugees have died in Australia’s offshore processing policy since 2013, with half of the deaths attributed to suicides. In 2021, a Kurdish asylum seeker sued the Australian government, arguing that the government’s use of hotel detentions were unlawful and breached the human rights of refugees and asylum seekers.

#2 Indigenous Rights

Indigenous Australians have consistently been overrepresented in the criminal justice system, comprising a third of the adult prison population, despite constituting only 3 percent of the Australian population. During 2021, over 11 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians died in custody and a prison officer faced court charges for manslaughter for shooting an Indigenous prisoner.

#3 LGBTI Discrimination

Despite progressive work in promoting the equality of LGBTI people in Australia, young Australians continue to face discrimination for their identity as having same-sex attraction. A study found that 61% of LGBTI Australians reported suffering from verbal abuse and approximately 20% facing physical abuse. Over 80% of homophobic discrimination and bullying occurs at schools, leading to higher cases of school dropout, depression and mental health issues.

#4 Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment and violence against women are one of Australia’s pressing human rights issues, with one in three Australian women experiencing violence in an intimate relationship, and one in five facing sexual violence. Domestic and sexual violence against women is also cited to be the greatest contributing factor of homelessness in Australia.

#5 Incarceration of Children

In Australia, Indigenous children are 21 times more likely to be detained than non-Indigenous children, highlighting the disproportionate effect of incarceration on ethnic minorities. Approximately 600 children under the age of 14 are imprisoned each year and despite calls to raise the age of criminal indictment from 10 to 14 years to match recommended international standards, the Australian government has consistently declined such requests. Furthermore, a 2020 report by the South Australian Guardian for Children and Young People revealed that imprisoned children were subject to invasive body searches and treatment in Adelaide’s Youth Detention Centre.

#6 Freedom of Expression

Several Australian universities have failed to protect the freedom of expression of students from China and academics and students who criticize the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Such lack of protection has led Chinese students and academics vulnerable to harassment, intimidation and attacks by pro-CCP groups, with pro-democracy students self-censoring themselves to avoid threats and being “reported” by peers to Chinese authorities.

#7 Disability Rights

Human Rights Watch recently discovered that between 2010 and 2020, approximately 60 percent of prisoners who died in Western Australian prisons had a disability. Within this segment of prisoners, 58 percent died due to limited resources, a lack of support and mental health services, suicide and violence, highlighting the inadequacies of the criminal justice system in Australia.

#8 Rights of the Elderly

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, there were over 650 COVID-19 associated deaths in aged care homes in the state of Victoria, with many outbreaks cited to be preventable.  The pandemic has highlighted the inadequacies of the aged care industry in Australia and the gaps in regulations. In fact, several aged care facilities use dangerous drugs without written consent of patients to control the behavior of the elderly with dementia and the federal government has yet to ban the practice.

#9 COVID-19 Restrictions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian government restricted the rights of its own citizens from entering and leaving the country, with strict quarantine and quota measures leaving over 43,000 of Australian citizens stranded overseas. Following a spike of COVID-19 cases in India in May 2021, the Australian government implemented harsh fines up to AUD $66,000 or five years in prison for Australian residents and citizens who chose to fly between India and Australia. Despite similar spikes in COVID-19 cases in the United States and the United Kingdom, no bans and criminalization policies were implemented for these countries.

#10 Homelessness

On any given night in Australia, 1 in 200 people are homeless and find themselves unable to stay under a safe and affordable roof. Over a third of homeless people in Australia are under the age of 18 and domestic violence, poverty and sexual assault are the leading causes that drive up homelessness rates in Australia. Consequently, is the societal by-product of systemic inequalities and human rights issues that urgently need to be addressed.

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As a universal language that transcends cultural barriers, music is a medium where people and artists alike can have their voices heard in a manner that words alone cannot. Music has often been used to foreground pressing political and societal issues, including the promotion and protection of human rights. These 15 artists have used their musical talent and platform to share awareness of human rights issues across the world and bring a voice to marginalized members of society.

Pete Townshend

Pete Townshend is an English musician, songwriter and vocalist of “the Who” rock band, one of the most influential rock ensembles during the 1960s and 1970s. Alongside his career in the rock music industry, Townshend has a long history of charity and philanthropic work for human rights issues, advocating for greater drug rehabilitation and activism for children’s rights. In 1979, Townshend was the first musician to perform for Amnesty International’s Human Rights Concerts and inspired other renowned rock musicians to support the human rights cause. Townshend is quoted saying, “Amnesty does things that I can’t do in my work. It deals with the specifics of injustice… It makes them public. It was 1979 that I appeared at ‘The Secret Policeman’s Ball’… It was amazing subsequently to see what ‘The Secret Policeman’s Ball’ triggered. Quite big names got involved in supporting Amnesty. And it became apparent that big names in music and Amnesty melded very well. It’s good to see that what I did kicked that off…”

Sting

Performing under the stage name, “Sting”, Gordon Sumner is a Grammy-Award winning guitarist, vocalist and songwriter who is renowned for his work as both a solo musician and an ensemble musician with the rock band “the Police” between 1977 – 1984. Sting is heavily involved in human rights activism, having written songs inspired by his concern for world hunger and oppressive political regimes, and has also extended his activism beyond music by writing an open letter for the decriminalization of drug possession in the United Kingdom in 2011. He has also signed several petitions against the death penalty in Belarus and has cancelled concerts in response to human rights issues in several countries. Sting’s humanitarian activism has been recognized by Amnesty International and he has performed for the NGO’s Human Rights Concerts on several occasions.

Bono

Described as the world’s best known philanthropic performers and most politically effective celebrity of all time by the National Journal, Bono (Paul Hewson) has worked extensively as a rock musician in the band U2, a philanthropist and human rights activist. Focusing much of his efforts into advocating the fight against AIDS and extreme poverty in Africa, Bono has lobbied governmental entities to adopt human rights-based policies under his positions as the co-founder of ONE, a global movement campaigning to end extreme poverty. More recently, Bono raised awareness of vaccination against COVID-19 and vaccine inequality around the world and in April 2022, Bono recorded an acoustic rendition of “Walk On” by his band, U2, for the Global Citizen’s Stand Up for Ukraine livestream, urging global leaders to support Ukrainian refugees. Bono was also invited by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy to perform in a metro station in Kyiv, showing his solidarity to Ukraine under invasion from Russia.

Peter Gabriel

Rising to fame as the lead singer of the rock band Genesis, Peter Gabriel has been an active rock musician, singer and producer whose music has been awarded nine MTV awards, Brit Awards and Grammy Awards throughout his musical career. Aside from his musical accomplishments, Gabriel is the co-founder of WITNESS, a human rights non-profit organization that supports local organizations document human rights issues and advocacy. In recognition of his humanitarian work, Gabriel was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 and was named as one of the most influential people in the world in 2008 by Time Magazine.

Angélique Kidjo

Awarded “The Ambassador of Conscience Award” by Amnesty International in 2016, Angélique Kidjo is a Beninese singer-songwriter renowned for her creative music videos and unique musical style that integrates Afropop, Congolese rumba, jazz and Latin music genres. Within her 30-year musical career, Kidjo has been a prominent advocate for the expression of freedom, the education of girls in Africa and has expressed concerns regarding female genital mutilation and has worked as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2002. Alongside her major ambassador roles, Kidjo is the founder of The Batonga Foundation, a non-profit organization that empowers women in Benin and upskills these women for socio-economic mobility.

Lang Lang

Described as one of the most exciting and accomplished classical musicians in the world, classical pianist Lang Lang has not only revolutionized the classical music industry but has also used his music as a way to advocate for human rights globally. Appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and a Messenger of Peace, Lang Lang primarily advocates for children’s rights and access to education through concerts that raise funds for UNICEF and other humanitarian crises.

Buffy Sainte-Marie

As an Indigenous Canadian singer-song writer and composer, Buffy Sainte-Marie’s music primarily revolves around the issues faced by the Indigenous peoples of Canada and the United States. Buffy began her advocacy efforts for the protection of Indigenous artists, performers and their intellectual property by establishing the Nihewan Foundation for Native American Education in 1966 and has moved on to founding The Creative Native Project, an initiative which seeks to empower Indigenous youth in the performing arts. More recently, Buffy was awarded the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Spirit Award and was invited to the Canadian Music Week in 2020.

Maxim Vengerov

Hailed as one of the most talented violinists in the 21^st century, Maxim Vengerov was the first classical musician to be appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 1997. Alongside his musical accomplishments, Vengerov has focused much of his advocacy on the promotion of children’s education and rights and has visited countries such as Turkey, Uganda and Bosnia and Herzegovina representing UNICEF. Vengerov has also performed at #EndViolence events in Bucharest, Romania for UNICEF Romania.

Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen is an American singer-song writer, known as one of the original founders of the heartland rock genre, which combines elements of mainstream rock music with narratives of the American working class. Throughout his musical career, Springsteen has been a long advocate for LGBT rights, the empowerment of women and democracy, using his international platform to raise awareness of social issues. Springsteen was first invited to perform for Amnesty International in 1988 and has since continued his advocacy of human rights through his music.

Nadya Tolokonnikova

As the leader of the Russian feminist punk band Pussy Riot, Nadya Tolokonnikova uses her musical platform to spread awareness of human rights issues through her music. As a passionate feminist, Tolokonnikova delved into themes of sexism and rape culture in her newest EP, Panic Attack, and has agreed to donate a portion of the proceeds from her EP to a shelter for domestic violence in Russia. Tolokonnikova herself was recognized by a political prisoner by the Union of Solidarity with Political Prisoners and Amnesty International described her as a “prisoner of conscience” due to the “severity of the response of Russian authorities.”

Piera Van de Wiel

Piera Van de Wiel is a British singer and composer who uses her music as a platform for her human rights advocacy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Van de Wiel released a single, “Used”, to raise awareness of the increase in domestic violence and abuse against women during the pandemic with the support of the United Nations Spotlight Initiative. Alongside her musical pursuits, Van de Wiel is the founder of the non-profit organization, Stronger With Music, a movement that works towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Evan Greer

Evan Greer is a trans/genderqueer artist based in Boston who composes acoustic songs that advocate technological security, LGBTQ rights and movements for justice and liberation. Alongside their musical accomplishments, Greer is the founder of a non-profit organization called Fight for the Future, which aims to secure digital rights and banning unethical technological practices.

Max Richter

German-British composer and pianist Max Richter is one of the most prominent composers of the 21^st century, boasting over a billion streams of his music and a million album sales throughout his 25-year musical career. Richter has previously responded to the Iraq War, the 2005 London terrorist attacks and the Kosovo War through his music and his most recent album, “Voices” takes inspiration from the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. All ten of the tracks (except for the final song) incorporate text from the 1948 UNDHR document and Richter himself has stated that the album is a response to the human rights abuses around the world and the need for social justice and equality of humans around the world.

Hans Zimmer

Composer of award-winning films such as The Dark Night, The Lion King and The Rock, Hollywood composer Hans Zimmer has established himself as one of the most eminent film composers in history. Zimmer was invited to compose an anthem to celebrate Amnesty International’s 50^th anniversary, titled “One More Voice for Freedom” in commemoration for International Human Rights Day. Zimmer himself is quoted saying “it was a privilege to create this piece of music for a cause which is so close to our hearts” and that it is my “hope that the anthem will inspire people to support Amnesty’s vision of a world where fundamental rights are protected for everyone. We should all join Amnesty in standing up for justice, freedom and human rights”.

Alicia Keys

Dubbed as the “Queen of R&B”, American singer-song writer Alicia Keys has intertwined her passion for music with human rights activism through her extensive philanthropic work in her musical career. Keys is the co-founder of the non-profit organization, Keep a Child Alive, that provides treatment and social support to children and families affected by HIV in Africa and India. As part of her work in Keep a Child Alive, Keys host an annual fundraising gala called the Black Ball, where she invites major musical artists to perform at the event to raise funds for HIV and AIDS activism.

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For as long as humans have existed, they’ve helped each other. After emergencies like natural disasters or war, communities have collected and shared resources, often sending aid far away. This human impulse continues in the form of humanitarian aid. Today, “humanitarian aid” refers to logistical and material help in areas like food, shelter, education, and medicine. It’s often deployed to address immediate, short-term needs until institutions like the government can step in. Why is humanitarian aid important? Here are fifteen benefits:

#1. Humanitarian aid targets a variety of needs

The first benefit of humanitarian aid is how many issues it addresses. Explore any humanitarian organization’s website and you’ll get an idea of the areas they work in. As an example, Islamic Relief Worldwide, a faith-based agency with a presence in 40+ countries, deals with emergency response, health, education, food, water, livelihoods, and more. UNICEF, a UN agency focused on children’s rights, works on adolescent development, gender, health, climate change and the environment, and social policy. Rather than focusing on one or two concerns, the vast majority of humanitarian aid organizations use a comprehensive strategy.

#2: Humanitarian aid helps millions of people

According to the Global Humanitarian Overview 2022, the UN and its partner organizations reached 107 million people in 2021. This number represents those who benefited from at least one kind of aid, such as food or medical assistance. As an example, organizations reached 1.23 million people in northern Mozambique, which more than doubles the number of people served in 2020. Many more need assistance. While the reach in 2021 was impressive, the UN and partner organizations had hoped to serve 174 million. In 2022, the goal is to benefit 183 million people.

#3. Food assistance saves people from starvation and malnutrition

Hunger is linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It can also cause premature births, low birth weights, and stunted infant development. According to the Food Research & Action Center, food insecurity connects to the most common and expensive health problems in the United States. Food-focused humanitarian aid saves lives, improves health, and protects livelihoods. Looking at the Global Humanitarian Overview 2022 again, we can see the impact. According to the World Food Programme, almost 105 million people around the world received direct food aid in the first nine months of 2021. In South Sudan, over 500,000 “severely food insecure” people were helped. In Syria, almost 6 million people received regular food baskets.

#4. WASH services save lives and combat disease

WASH stands for water, sanitation, and hygiene. Without proper WASH, people are at severe risk for thirst-related issues and water-borne diseases. According to the CDC’s Global WASH Fast Facts, 2 billion people don’t have access to safe drinking water. Nearly half of the world’s population can’t access safely-managed sanitation, either. WASH-focused humanitarian aid helps. In 2021, half a million people in Iraq received access to WASH services, while in Venezuela, 1.8 million people got WASH help. UNICEF helped ensure that 34 million people got access to safe water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

#5. Medical humanitarian aid benefits millions

Medical supplies and training are essential in just about every emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic is a prime example, although diseases like malaria and Ebola have also been concerns for a long time. In 2021, UNFPA provided 2 million people with PPE in 29 countries. Through COVAX, 362 million doses of the Covid vaccine were shipped. Sexual health was also addressed; in 33 countries, kids and young people (aged 10-24) received tailored sexual and reproductive services. 29 million women of reproductive received sexual and reproductive health services, as well.

#6. Many people need shelter following emergencies

Disasters like floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes often destroy homes or force people to flee. Refugees traveling to new countries need shelter, as well. Most humanitarian organizations include shelter as one of their priority issues. As an example, the UN Refugee Agency distributes tents from three centers in Durban, Dubai, and Copenhagen. They also provide plastic sheeting and matting, as well as funds for rehabilitating communal shelters or building new homes.

#7. Humanitarian aid benefits children’s education

When disasters unfold, children are uniquely affected. Education is disrupted more often than not, which can have serious long-term consequences. UNICEF lists several issues, such as reduced earning potential, barriers to employment, and decreased participation in politics. People without adequate education are also more likely to experience negative health outcomes. While the gender gap in education is closing, girls are still more likely to have trouble getting an education. In 2021, UNICEF helped almost 110 million kids access formal or non-formal education. The UNHCR also connected over 869,900 refugee and host community kids with connected or home-based learning.

#8. Humanitarian aid benefits the most vulnerable

Women, children, and refugees are three of the world’s most vulnerable groups. Their vulnerability only increases in times of crisis. Luckily, humanitarian organizations focus on the people most impacted. According to the Global Humanitarian Overview 2022, 2.4 million malnourished kids were admitted for treatment. 5 million kids and guardians received mental health and psychological support. 11.3 million people got protection services, including legal aid and referrals to gender-based violence support. 4.2 million refugees and asylum-seekers got essential healthcare services.

#9. Humanitarian aid reaches affected areas fast

When an emergency strikes, recovery can take a long time. In the meanwhile, people need help immediately. One of the main benefits of humanitarian aid is how quickly it can be mobilized and deployed. According to UNCHR’s guide for emergency deployment, members of the international emergency roster need to be ready to deploy within 72 hours. UNDAC (the United Nations Disasters Assessment and Coordination) can deploy within 12-48 hours of a request.

#10. Humanitarian aid helps communities prepare

Humanitarian aid doesn’t only benefit people following an emergency; it can help them prepare for one. Many organizations, many of them local or national, hold various public trainings. Information includes how to prepare for an emergency (like a wildfire, earthquake, or hurricane), how to recognize the warning signs, and what to do. Humanitarian projects are also increasingly including preparedness as part of their own systems. This saves money, but most importantly, it can save lives.

#11. Humanitarian aid helps communities rebuild

The main goal of humanitarian aid is to save lives and reduce suffering. However, humanitarian aid’s role in community restoration also matters. If assistance only focuses on the short-term issues, it leaves communities in the lurch for the more challenging, long-term concerns. In a 2016 piece on the World Economic Forum, Habitat for Humanity CEO Jonathon T.M. Reckford writes: “Collectively, those of us offering humanitarian aid should leverage our efforts and precious resources to bridge the gap between relief and development so we can help families create permanent solutions to the challenges they face.” When the gap between short-term and long-term closes, humanitarian aid and development efforts empower communities to rebuild.

#12. Humanitarian aid is part of combating climate change

Climate change is a factor in many crises. According to the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, storms, floods, and droughts have increased threefold over the last three decades. Because of population growth and urbanization, more people are affected by climate-related issues like reduced food security, unsafe water, increased migration, and disease. Humanitarian aid efforts must factor in climate change if they’re going to be effective. That necessitates more preparedness measures, more flexible cash assistance, programs, multi-risk management strategies, and so on.

#13. Humanitarian aid can help achieve the SDGs

The Sustainable Development Goals are a series of 17 interlinked global goals established in 2015 by the UN General Assembly. The deadline? 2030. If the world wants to meet these goals, humanitarian aid must become more innovative. In a post on the UNHCR Innovation Service, Dan McClure writes: “Reducing vulnerability and improving resilience needs to be seen as an essential component of humanitarian action.” A shift in how humanitarian aid is conceived could play a key role in achieving SDGs such as zero poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, and affordable and clean energy.

#14. Humanitarian aid gives people their dignity back

Humanitarian aid meets physical needs like hunger and thirst, but one of the main benefits of aid is how it gives people their dignity back. In the UNHCR Emergency Handbook, there’s a section on humanitarian principles. It describes humanitarian aid’s purpose as “to save lives and alleviate suffering in a manner that respects and restores personal dignity.” Helping someone in a way that disrespects their autonomy and dignity is not true humanitarianism. When properly given, humanitarian aid has a significantly positive effect on a person’s emotional and spiritual health as well as their physical health.

#15. Humanitarian aid can fuel hope and motivation

The humanitarian aid system is far from perfect, but despite its flaws and limitations, it can change the lives of those both receiving and giving assistance. It proves people and organizations are willing to help and sacrifice for others. It saves lives and eases the suffering of millions. In a time where crises are constantly erupting – and hope can be hard to come by – humanitarian aid can make dire situations a little brighter and motivate people to keep working for a better world.

The post 15 Benefits of Humanitarian Aid appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Learn about some of the human rights issues faced by lesbian, gay, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) communities and explore key concepts of equality and justice. Equip yourself with the skills to develop more inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ people in all areas of life.

Queering Identities: LGBTQ+ Sexuality and Gender Identity

In this online course offered by University of Colorado, you will explore the history of LGBTQ+ activism, the diverse identities of LGBTQ people and their unique experiences. You will learn about key concepts of LGBTQ+ research and learn about the basics of gender-sensitive language and terminology. You will also analyze how LGBTQ+ issues relate to racism, whiteness, religion, conflict and reconciliation. This introductory course takes approximately seven hours to complete. After completing the course you will have a better understanding how the LGBTQ+ community has shaped the conversation around human rights, equality and justice.

Gender and Sexuality: Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

The University of Pittsburgh offers a four week online course about diversity and inclusion in the Workplace. This course will investigate the answers to essential questions such as “What is sex?”, “What is gender?”, “What does LGBTQIA mean?” and how these concepts relate to the workplace and workplace inclusion. Featuring research from a variety of sectors including gender, sexuality, and women’s studies, this course is a valuable asset for human rights professionals and NGO workers.

Queering the Schoolhouse: LGBTQ+ Inclusion for Educators

This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to develop and enable a more inclusive learning environment for students, teachers and community members. It will encourage you to explore strategies for inclusion of lesbian, gay, transgender, queer or questioning learners in your professional context and will train you in techniques for enhancing LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools. Teachers and educators will especially benefit from this course but every other member of the school community from parents, students and administrators will find it useful to increase their knowledge about LGBTQ+ inclusion.

International Women’s Health and Human Rights

This online course offered by Stanford University focuses on women’s health and human rights issues from infancy through old age and contains a dedicated chapter about LGBTI Refugees. The course also puts emphasis on outlining strategies that strengthen women’s health and human rights in a global context. The course will encourage learners to explore positive interventions for pressing human rights issues including female genital mutilation, violence against women and sex trafficking.

AIDS: Fear and Hope

In this course you will learn about the biology of the virus that causes AIDS and the economic, social and political factors that determine who gets healthy or sick, who lives or dies. Beyond that, this course will discuss medical progress and the latest treatments available to people who live with HIV. The course contains one chapter specifically related to women and gender inequality and gives a glimpse into sexual history. The course was developed by University of Michigan and takes approximately 16 hours to complete.

What does it mean to identify as Transgender or Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC)?

In this course you will have the opportunity to gain deep insights into the experiences of transgender people. Together with your peers you will discuss issues such as bathroom rights, access to healthcare, employment inequality and housing discrimination. Participants will learn about the unique struggles faced by TGNC people and develop the skills to build inclusive spaces in various areas of life. This course was developed under the Joycelyn Elders Chair in Sexual Health Education at the University of Minnesota and takes 27 hours from start to finish.

Health Across the Gender Spectrum

This unique course will provide an intimate, story-based introduction to the experiences of six transgender children and their families. Through these stories and short explainer videos you will develop a more profound understanding of the gender spectrum and gender identity. The course offers practical tips for healthcare providers, teachers and parents to create a more gender-expansive environment that enables everyone to live authentic lives.

PrEParing: PrEP for Providers and Patients

This course is offered by Johns Hopkins University and takes approximately 12 hours to complete. Learners who complete the course will be able to describe the need for PrEP as an HIV prevention tool in stigmatized populations. They will also be able to indicate the requirements for integrating PrEP services into clinical practice and explain key aspects of patient education for HIV prevention and sexual health. This course will be especially useful for patients, healthcare professionals and providers of PrEP services.

Transgender Medicine for General Medical Providers

This course will provide you with an introduction to transgender surgical and medical treatments. You will learn about primary care for transgender men and woman as well as essential strategies to transgender hormone therapies. You will also learn about transmasculine and transfeminine genital surgery. This course takes approximately 12 hours to complete and is taught entirely in English. The course is offered by Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City.

Optimizing Diversity on Teams

In this course offered by Pennsylvania University you will learn how you can create prosperous teams where differences can flourish. The four weeks course contains modules on promoting diversity in the workplace, managing conflict and team building essentials. It takes approximately twelve hours to complete and can be taken at your own pace. It is part of a specialization that contains five courses and concludes with a capstone project.

The post 10 LGBTQ+ Online Courses on Health, Diversity and Inclusion appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

What are the most pressing issues in the world today? What will demand the most attention in the next 5, 10, and 20+ years? In this article, which frequently refers to the World Economic Forum’s 17th Edition of the Global Risks Report, we’ll highlight 20 current global issues we must address, including issues related to climate change, COVID-19, social rights, and more. While it’s hardly a comprehensive discussion, it’s a solid introduction to the kinds of concerns facing our world today.

#1. Poverty

In fall 2022, the World Bank will update the International Poverty Line from $1.90 to $2.15. This means anyone living on less than $2.15 is in “extreme poverty.” Why the change? Increases in the costs of food, clothing, and shelter between 2011-2017 make the “real value of $2.15 in 2017 prices equal to $1.90 in 2011 prices. As for the World Bank’s goal to reduce extreme poverty to 3% or less by 2030, the pandemic has made it even harder. Extreme poverty isn’t the only poverty we have to contend with. 62% of the global population lives on less than $10/day. While there’s been progress over the years, the end of poverty is still far off.

Learn more about tackling poverty with an online course: Poverty & Population: How Demographics Shape Policy (Columbia University)

#2. Climate change

The IPCC released its sixth report in 2022. In its summary for policy-makers, the report’s authors outlined a series of near-term, mid-term, and long-term risks. If global warming reaches 1.5°C in the near term (2021-2040), it would cause “unavoidable increases in multiple climate hazards,” as well as “multiple risks to ecosystems and humans.” In the long term, climate change will present major health issues, premature deaths, risks to cities and settlements, and other dangers. Mitigation is desperately needed – and fast. Because of climate change’s connection to other issues on this list, it’s one of the most serious challenges facing humanity.

Learn more about climate change with an online course: Science and Engineering of Climate Change (EDHEC Business School)

#3. Food insecurity

According to the 2022 Global Report on Food Crises, which is produced by the Global Network against Food Crises, the number of people in crisis or worse is the highest it’s been in the six years since the report has existed. Close to 193 million people were experiencing acute food insecurity in 2021, which is an increase of almost 40 million since 2020. This represents a staggering 80% increase since 2016. Causes include “economic shocks,” like an increase in global food prices. Domestic food price inflation in low-income countries also rose a lot. “Weather-related disasters” are also a big driver. For 15.7 million people in 15 countries, it was the primary driver of acute food insecurity.

Learn more about food insecurity with an online course: Feeding the World (University of Pennsylvania)

#4. Refugee rights

According to UNHCR, the war in Ukraine sparked the fastest-growing refugee crisis since WWII. Almost 6 million (as of May 10, 2022) people have fled. The UNCHR’s Refugee Brief, which compiles the week’s biggest refugee stories, has recently described situations in places like Somalia, where thousands of people were displaced due to severe drought. Between January and mid-April, more than 36,000 refugees from Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso arrived in Niger. These are only a few examples of the refugee crises, which endangers already marginalized groups – like women and children – and puts them at an increased risk of trafficking, violence, and death.

Learn more about refugee rights with an online course: Refugees in the 21st Century (University of London)

#5. COVID-19

The WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic in March 2022. It will continue to be a major issue for the world. The WEF’s Global Risks Report 2022 discusses COVID’s effects at length, including major economic recovery disparities and social erosion. According to a January 2022 article from NPR, there are also issues with vaccinations as many countries continue to have trouble getting doses. Distribution, vaccine hesitancy, healthcare systems, and other problems also factor into low vaccination rates. While we may never know the exact impact, the WHO estimates that between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2021, there were around 14.9 million excess deaths linked to COVID-19.

Learn more about the impact of COVID-19 with an online course: Life After COVID-19: Get Ready for our Post-Pandemic Future (Institute for the Future)

#6. Future pandemic preparation and response

COVID-19 taught the world the importance of prepardeness. In a Harvard blog, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, outlined the lessons the world should take to heart. The first: science has to guide policy. The politicization of the pandemic led to a lot of unnecessary damage. Another lesson is that science must pair with equity or it can actually make inequalities worse. This is obvious when looking at how low-income countries struggled to get the vaccines while wealthier countries stocked up. More resilient healthcare systems are also a must, as well as more coherent, global plans on how to respond. The world must also invest in research on contagious diseases, zoonotic diseases, the effectiveness of outbreak responses, and more.

Learn more about future pandemic response with an online course: Pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response (Politecnico di Milano)

#7. Healthcare

The healthcare industry has experienced major shifts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Economic Forum, there’s been new investments and innovations, especially from the technology and telehealth sectors. In 2021, $44 billion was spent on health innovation. The world will be seeing the effects of these innovations for years to come, though equity will no doubt be a major issue. In places like the United States, the pandemic also reaffirmed how broken healthcare systems can be. In an MIT News blog, Andrea Campbell, a professor of political science, says the pandemic revealed a “dire need” for investments in public-health infrastructure, as well as a need to expand healthcare access and insurance coverage.

Learn more about health inequity issues with an online course: Addressing Racial Health Inequity in Healthcare (University of Michigan)

#8. Mental health

Globally, almost 1 billion people have some form of mental disorder. The pandemic made the world’s mental health worse. According to a scientific brief from the WHO, there’s been a 25% increase in anxiety and depression worldwide. Causes include social isolation, fear of sickness, grief, and financial anxieties. Health workers were also severely impacted, as well as young women and girls. The brief also highlights how the pandemic disrupted many mental health services, including services for substance abuse. Countries need to ensure access to mental health services as part of their COVID-19 recovery plans and beyond. It’s an economic decision, as well. The Lancet states that anxiety and depression alone cost the global economy around $1 trillion a year.

Learn more about mental health with an online course: The Science of Well-Being (Yale University)

#9. Disability rights

According to the WHO, over 1 billion people have some form of disability. Half can’t afford healthcare. They’re also more likely to live in poverty than those without a disability, have poorer health outcomes, and have less access to work and education opportunities. Human Rights Watch lists other discriminations disabled people face, such as an increased risk of violence. There’s been progress regarding disability rights, but many countries lack strong protections. The world still has a long way to go to ensure equality for those with disabilities.

Learn more about disability rights with an online courses: Disability Awareness and Support (University of Pittsburgh)

#10. LGBTQ+ rights

Members of the LGBTQ+ community face discrimination in many forms. According to Amnesty International, discrimination can target sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics. Even in more progressive countries like the United States, people face violence and discrimination. According to the Human Rights Campaign, more than 300 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were proposed in 2022. At least a dozen states are considering legislation that forbids schools from discussing or using a curriculum that covers sexual orientation and gender identity. Considering the United States’ influence in the world, this attack on LGBTQ+ rights will likely have consequences that need to be addressed.

Learn more about LGBTQ+ issues with an online courses.

#11. Reproductive justice

Reproductive justice – which encompasses more than just abortion rights – is threatened by legislation, lack of funding, lack of education, and restricted healthcare access. In most places, wealth is a big determinant of whether a person can access reproductive services. It’s better in some places than others, but as we’ve seen with other issues on this list, even “progressive” countries like the United States are experiencing major shifts. In June 2022, the Supreme Court is expected to overrule Roe v. Wade, a milestone court case that protected a pregnant woman’s right to abortion. The impact would be immediate and will likely influence other countries.

Learn more about reproductive justice and women’s rights: International Women’s Health and Human Rights (Stanford University)

#12. Children’s rights

Children are a very vulnerable group. In 2019, around 5.2 million children under five from mostly preventable and treatable causes. 2.4 million were newborns under 28 days old. Leading causes include preterm birth complications, pneumonia, and malaria. According to UNICEF, the climate crisis also represents a severe threat to kids. Around 1 billion kids live in “extremely high-risk countries” that are hit by the worst effects of climate change. 920 kids have trouble accessing clean water and 600 million are exposed to vector-borne diseases like malaria. Child labor also remains an issue. At the beginning of 2020, around 160 million were forced into labor while COVID-19 put 9 million more kids at risk. That’s almost 1 in 10 children globally. Almost half are in dangerous environments. As is often the case, the other issues on this list – climate change, poverty, COVID, gender equality, etc – factor into children’s rights.

Learn more about children’s rights: Children’s Human Rights – An Interdisciplinary Introduction (University of Geneva)

#13. Gender equality

Global gender equality has gradually improved over the years, but data from the 2021 Global Gender Report shows that the end of the global gender gap is still 135 years away. The pandemic played a huge role in reversing positive trends as women were hit harder financially. According to Oxfam, women experienced a 5% job loss while men experienced 3.9%. That means women lost about $800 million in 2020. This is a low estimate since it doesn’t count the informal economy, which includes millions of women. Women are also more likely to live in poverty, more affected by gender-based violence, and more affected by climate change.

Learn more about gender equality: Gender Analytics: Gender Equity through Inclusive Design (University of Toronto)

#14. Cybersecurity

The WEF’s Global Risks Report 2022 (page 9) listed cybersecurity vulnerabilities as a concern. The reason is rapid digitalization, which was triggered in part by COVID-19. Many “advanced economies” are now at a higher risk for cyberattacks. GRPS respondents identified cybersecurity failure as a critical short-term risk. In 2020, malware and ransomware attacks went up by 358% and 435%. There are a few reasons for this, including better (and easier) attack methods and poor governance. Cyberattacks have a swath of serious consequences and erode public trust. As countries become more dependent on digitalization, their cybersecurity needs to keep up.

Learn more about cybersecurity: IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate (IBM)

#15. Disinformation

Rapid digitalization comes with many issues, including the lightning-fast spread of disinformation. The WEF report describes deepfakes, an accessible AI technology, and its potential to sway elections and other political outcomes. Disinformation doesn’t need to be sophisticated to be successful, however. Through social media posts and videos, twelve anti-vax activists were responsible for almost ⅔ of all anti-vaccine content on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Their content flooded the internet with the type of harmful, fear-mongering disinformation that played a significant role in vaccine hesitancy and political radicalization. Because disinformation travels faster online than the truth, it’s a global issue that should be addressed.

Learn more about tackling disinformation: Communicating Trustworthy Information in the Digital World (University of Rotterdam)

#16. Freedom of the press

According to the Varieties of Democracy Institute (as reported in The Economist), about 85% of people live in a country where press freedom has gone down in the past 5 years. After peaking at .65 in the early 2000s and 2011, the global average dropped to .49 in 2021. Major countries like China, India, Russia, Brazil, and Turkey saw significant declines. Journalists and news organizations face threats like violence, imprisonment, lack of funding, and coordinated online attacks and harassment. A free press is essential to a functioning democracy. Without press freedom, all human rights are at risk.

Learn more about freedom of expression: Human Rights for Open Societies (Utrecht University)

#17. Debt crises

In the WEF Global Risks Report (page 7), respondents named debt crises as one of the most pressing issues over the next decade, though respondents believe they will become most serious in just 3-5 years. COVID-19 is a big reason why. Government stimulus was necessary, but many countries are now left with debt burdens. For corporate and public finances in large economies, debt burdens can lead to defaults, bankruptcies, insolvency, and more. This is a far-reaching issue as it affects budgets for areas like healthcare and green energy.

Learn more about the debt: Finance for everyone – Debt (McMaster University)

#18. Corruption

Corruption encompasses a host of actions such as bribery, election manipulation, fraud, and state capture. The World Bank Group names corruption as a barrier to ending extreme poverty and “boosting shared prosperity” for the poorest populations. When it comes to addressing poverty, climate change, healthcare, gender equality, and more, corruption gets in the way. Because corruption is a global problem, global solutions are necessary. Reform, better accountability systems, and open processes will all help.

Learn more about tackling corruption: What is Corruption: Anti-Corruption and Compliance (University of Pennsylvania)

#19. Authoritarianism

According to Freedom House, global democracy is eroding. That includes countries with long-established democracies. In their 2022 report, the organization reveals that global freedom has been declining for the past 16 years. 60 countries faced declines in the last year. Only 25 saw improvements. Only 20% of the global population lives in Free countries. China, Russia, and other authoritarian countries have gained more power in the international system, while countries with established democracies – like the United States – are losing their freedoms. What can be done? Freedom House says success “requires a bold, sustained response that establishes support for democracy and countering authoritarianism.” Governments and citizens engage and stand for democracy.

Learn more about tackling authoritarianism: Citizenship and the Rule of Law (University of London)

#20. Global cooperation

Addressing the issues in this article is not an easy task. True progress is only possible through global cooperation, a fact which is woven through the WEF report. Everything from addressing cybersecurity threats to humanitarian emergencies to protecting democracy depends on strong cooperation between countries. As the report says in its preface: “Restoring trust and fostering cooperation within and between countries will be crucial to addressing these challenges and preventing the world from drifting further apart.” The challenges threatening global cooperation are just as clear as the need, however, which makes it one of the most serious issues of the day.

Learn more about global cooperation: Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World

The post Top 20 Current Global Issues We Must Address appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

On July 12, the United Nations recognizes Malala Day in honor of education activist Malala Yousafzai. It’s also her birthday and the day she spoke to the UN in 2013. In this article, we’ll discuss why Malala has a day, how the day is celebrated, what barriers threaten universal education access, and what you can do to honor the mission of Malala Day.

Who is Malala Yousafzai?

On July 12, 1997, Malala was born in Mingora, Pakistan. Her father, Ziauddin, ran a girls’ school and wanted to make sure his daughter received the same education as a boy would. Malala began speaking about education rights in 2008 when she was only 11. Her activism included blogging for the BBC. In 2009, the Taliban shut down schools for girls where Malala lived. Despite the danger, she continued to speak out and became known internationally. In 2011, Archbishop Desmond Tutu nominated her for the International Children’s Peace Prize.

In 2012, a Taliban gunman entered Malala’s school bus and shot the 15-year-old in the head. She survived. On her 16th birthday in 2013, while wearing the late Benazir Bhutto’s shawl, Malala gave a speech to the United Nations on the topic of youth education. When discussing the Taliban’s assassination attempt, she said, “They thought that the bullets would silence us, but they failed. And out of that silence came thousands of voices.” Since her speech, the UN has designated July 12 as Malala Day, though Malala has said: “Malala Day is not my day. Today is the day of every woman, every boy and every girl who have raised their voice for their rights.”

In 2014, Malala was named the co-recipient of the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize for her work promoting equal education rights for all children. At 17, she remains the youngest Nobel Laureate at the time of this article’s writing. In 2020, Malala graduated from Oxford University with a philosophy, politics, and economics degree. With her father, she’s the co-founder of Malala Fund, an international nonprofit organization advocating for girls’ education.

What happens on Malala Day?

Malala Day was established to honor Malala Yousafzai, but as she’s emphasized, it’s also a day to recognize advocacy for education rights all over the world. You can find many references to #MalalaDay on Twitter from people like Michelle Obama and organizations like UNESCO, Girls Who Code, and Muslims for Peace. Many organizations also recognize Malala Day as an opportunity to highlight the important work being done for education. One example is HundrED, a global education nonprofit working to improve education through innovations. In a 2019 blog, the organization described innovations like the Varkey Foundation’s “Making Ghanaian Girls Great” project, which uses satellite-enabled and solar-powered technology to deliver education to students in Ghana. Over the past three years, the MGCubed Project has impacted over 36,000 students. The HundrED blog also lists a music initiative in Afghanistan and a STEM-and-dance program in the United States.

Malala Day is also a great opportunity for organizations, schools, and individuals to learn more about Malala’s work and the work of other young activists. Malala has written several books, including I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up (2014), Malala’s Magic Pencil (2017), and We Are Displaced: My Journey and Stories From Refugee Girls Around the World (2019). A 2015 documentary – “He Named Me Malala” – follows Malala’s story through her 2013 speech to the UN. Malala may be one of the best-known young activists, but she’s hardly the only example. On July 12, consider learning about young people like Bana al-Abed, a Syrian girl who – with her mother’s help – documented the siege of Aleppo on Twitter when she was just 7-years old. Bana has since written Dear World: A Syrian Girl’s Story of War and Plea for Peace and My Name Is Bana.

Why is education access so important?

Education is a human right and the focus of Article 26 in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It’s a three-part article stating everyone has the right to education, which should be free at least through the elementary and fundamental stages. It also states that education “shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.” The article also gives parents the right to choose their children’s education. Education is so significant because of the impact it has throughout a person’s life. Someone’s education affects the kind of job they can get, how much money they’ll make, and how independent they can be. Research has even shown when women are educated, it leads to fewer maternal deaths, fewer child deaths, improved health in children, and higher vaccination rates. When people receive a good education, their individual lives – and society as a whole – improve.

What is the status of education in the world?

Malala Day focuses on education, especially education for girls, who are historically marginalized when it comes to schooling. What is the state of education rights in the world? Let’s look at a 2019 UNESCO Institute For Statistics fact sheet, which highlights the most recent stats on trends at global and regional levels based on an adjusted calculation method. Why was there an adjustment? The goal was to get a more precise estimate on the out-of-school population. Based on the new method, there’s been no progress in reducing out-of-school numbers. In 2018, 258.4 million children, adolescents, and youth were out of school. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest out-of-school rates for all age groups and the highest rate of exclusion. 19% of primary-school-age children are denied an education. The fact sheet concludes that we’re still far away from universal primary and secondary education access.

What about girls and education? The good news from the Institute for Statistics fact sheet: gender parity in out-of-school rates is getting better overall despite inequalities at regional and country levels. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has disrupted education for girls. UNESCO published a new fact sheet as part of the #HerEducationOurFuture initiative, finding that around 11 million girls may not go back to school. Girls 12-17 years old living in low and lower-income countries are at a higher risk of dropping out. This is especially concerning for countries like Benin, Cameroon, Mali, Pakistan, and Senegal where the poorest girls go to school for less than 2 years on average. The pandemic has also affected education investments. Of the 29 countries surveyed in the report, ⅔ of low and lower-middle-income countries cut their education budgets. Girls are the group most likely to be affected by these cuts.

What keeps children out of school?

There are many barriers preventing children from getting the education they deserve. According to UNICEF, poverty is a persistent reason. Schooling often comes with costs and fees. While they may not seem exuberant to some, many people simply cannot afford to spend money on school for their children. The cost of school supplies, lunches, and transportation adds up quickly. Poverty is also a driver of child labor and child marriage, both of which prevent a child from accessing education. Based on UNICEF stats, more than 1 in 4 children (ages 5-17 years old) living in the least developed countries are used for labor. Around 650 million girls alive today were married as children; around 12 million girls under 18 are married off every year.

Political instability, conflicts, and natural disasters also restrict a child’s education. The quality of education can also be negatively impacted by a lack of trained teachers, poor infrastructure, inadequate materials, and a child’s home life. If a child is not getting enough food or is also working while attending school, they won’t be able to focus as much. There’s also a concern about the digital divide. ⅔ of the world’s school-aged kids don’t have access to the internet at home, and in our increasingly digital world, a lack of internet has a significant impact on a person’s education and opportunities. To ensure equal education access to all children, barriers and restrictions must be addressed and remedied.

How can people support the mission of Malala Day?

Depending on who you are, how much time you have, and the tools and resources at your disposal, there are many different ways to support education access for the world’s children. The first thing anyone can do is learn how countries – including your own – are upholding education as a human right. You should also track any agreements, laws, or policies a country has signed on to. The Observatory from UNESCO is a great place to start. It includes a library that collects Member States’ laws, constitutions, decrees, programs, and other plans that relate to the right to education. Holding power accountable to its promises and responsibilities is essential work for all human rights defenders. If you’re a writer or active online, you can commit to raising awareness and sharing resources on July 12 using whatever platforms you have. That can include posting on social media, sharing or making videos, and more.

Are you part of an organization as an employee or volunteer? Organizations can support the mission of Malala Day through events, educational resources, and fundraisers. Even if your organization doesn’t focus on education access, it can still connect people to organizations that do. Most areas have groups that support teachers and students, whether it’s paying school fees, buying school supplies, arranging transportation, or volunteering in classrooms and after-school programs. Individuals, grassroots groups, nonprofits, and for-profit organizations can all play a role in supporting education access locally, nationally, and internationally. Malala Day on July 12 is a great day to start.

The post What is Malala Day? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Human Rights Watch Japan

Human Rights Watch Tokyo is the Japanese subsidiary of Human Rights Watch, which works to investigate and research human rights abuses both globally and within Japan. Human Rights Watch Japan regularly lobbies local governments, businesses and other groups to adopt a human rights based approach in their practices and encourage them to change their policies and laws. As an independent research entity, Human Rights Watch Japan receives its funding from its donors and refuses government and corporate funding.

Human Rights Now

Human Rights Now (HRN) is an international human rights NGO based in Tokyo, Japan with UN special consultative status. HRN was established in 2006 by a group of human rights professionals, as the first international human rights NGO based in Japan. With over 700 members comprised of various human rights specialists, HRN works for the promotion and protection of human rights for people in the world, with a special focus on Asia. Furthermore, HRN looks to contribute to the development of international human rights standards and norms through the UN and other international institutions and promote the incorporation of international human rights standards within the domestic framework of Japan.

Japan International Cooperation Agency

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is a governmental institution that delivers the majority of the Japanese government’s official development assistance (ODA). JICA is chartered with assisted economic and social growth in developing nations and the promotion of international cooperation and human rights protection.

Amnesty Japan

Amnesty International Japan is the Japanese subsidiary of Amnesty International, which works to create a world in which the freedom and dignities of people are equally protected. As the world’s biggest NGO founded in 1961, Amnesty International has amassed over 10 million advocates in 200 countries around the world and through its international presence, Amnesty distributes its independent research and proposes recommendations to the United Nations and other governmental entities. Amnesty International Japan was founded in 1970 and works to inform Japan and the wider community of human rights violations occurring around the world, with a special focus on Japan and the broader Asian region.

World Vision Japan

World Vision Japan is the Japanese subsidiary of World Vision, an international NGO that provides development assistance, humanitarian assistance and advocacy based upon the spirit of Christianity. World Vision Japan was established in 1987 and in 2021 alone, has implemented 169 projects in 36 countries and provided development assistance and emergency humanitarian assistance in over 100 countries. Alongside its international activities, World Vision Japan amassed over 60 million yen in donations and used its funding for supporting local business activities and human rights advocacy.

Hurights Osaka

Hurights Osaka (otherwise known as the Asia Pacific Human Rights Center) was established in 1994 with ambitions to collect and provide comprehensive human rights research in the Asia-Pacific region. As an international human rights NGO that aims to foster mutual understanding and friendship across the Asia-Pacific, Hurights Osaka hopes to contribute towards the international exchange of Osaka and nurture the understanding of human rights within the prefecture. Currently, Hurights Osaka works towards the human rights cause through research, human rights training courses and seminars, public relations and consultations with stakeholders.

The International Movement Against All Forms of Discrimination and Racism (IMADR)

The International Movement Against All Forms of Discrimination and Racism (IMADR) is an international human rights NGO established in 1988 in Tokyo, that aims to eliminate all discrimination and racism globally. As the first human rights NGO based in Japan to obtain consultative status with the United Nations, IMADR has set up an office in Geneva and works with UN agencies across the world. In Japan, IMADR’s work centres around the support of the Indigenous Ainu people in Hokkaido and the Ryukyu people in Okinawa, alongside Zainichi Koreans living in Japan. By amplifying the voices of marginalized social groups in Japan, IMADR actively shares their research and experiences to governmental entities to ensure such issues are recognized by the world.

JANIC

JANIC is a network of civil society organizations based in Japan promoting to solve international human rights issues by uniting and supporting over 100 organizations to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice. Founded in 1987 in the heart of Tokyo, JANIC’s mission centres around the strengthening the institutional capabilities of Japanese human rights NGOs and the facilitating of collective action to the wider Japanese civil society to influence the policies and practices of governments and institutions at both the domestic and international levels. Alongside JANIC’s commitment to supporting NGOs, the organization itself also works to disseminate information and knowledge concerning people’s living conditions in developing regions of the world and enlighten the general Japanese public on the role of NGOs and encourage them to participate in NGO activities in any form.

Tokyo Metropolitan Human Rights Promotion Center

The Tokyo Metropolitan Human Rights Promotion Center was initially founded as the Tokyo Dowa Business Promotion Association in 1971, which aimed to address the “Buraku” discrimination issue, a human rights issue unique to Japan that is based upon the social, cultural and economic discrimination of certain social groups due to historical prejudices in Japanese society. Later, the organization broadened its scope of activities to include human rights violations against children, women, the disabled, foreigners, the Indigenous peoples of Japan and criminals. Since its establishment, the Tokyo Metropolitan Human Rights Promotion Center has worked to raise awareness of human rights among the citizens of Tokyo by implementing human rights education projects to contribute to the solution of human rights issues in Japan.

Centre for Human Rights Education and Training

The Centre for Human Rights Education and Training was established in October 1987 under the management of Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications to address discrimination and human rights issues in Japanese society. Currently, the organization is focusing its efforts on educating the Japanese public on human rights issues by supporting and coordinating with various human rights institutions, alongside governmental entities, public organizations and companies. Alongside the centre’s human rights research and training programs the organization opened a human rights library endorsed by Japan’s Ministry of Justice in 2000 to provide greater education and awareness of human rights issues both abroad and domestic.

AAR Japan

AAR Japan was founded in 1979 with a mission to help refugees from Indochina as a civil organization without any political, religious or ideological affiliations. Since its beginnings in the late seventies, AAR Japan has grown into an international human rights organization approved and registered with the United Nations that reaches out to the most vulnerable populations around the globe. Active in over 60 different countries, AAR received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997 for their international activities providing emergency assistance, support for disabled people, mine clearance, action against infectious diseases and raising public awareness.

Japan Civil Liberties Union (JCLU)

The Japan Civil Liberties Union (JCLU) is a public interest corporation whose sole purpose is to protect basic human rights. Established in 1947, JCLU conducts research and proposals focusing on the freedom of expression, education and the human rights of foreigners, alongside supporting plaintiffs in human rights proceedings. JCLU is also a member of the International Federation for Human Rights (ILHR) and the International Federation for Human Rights (ICJ) and obtained the special consultative status of the United Nations Economic and Social Council in 2003. Alongside its research initiatives and pursuits, the organization publishes a JCLU newsletter every quarter.

Japan Association for Refugees (難民支援協会)

The Japan Association for Refugees is a Japanese NGO that provides comprehensive assistance for refugees from their arrival in Japan until they have comfortably settled in their new homes. The Japan Association for Refugees works as a project implementing partner under contract with the Office of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and provides legal, social and integrative support for refugees, alongside publish an annual report on their activities and advocacy in both Japanese and English.

Japan Alliance for Legislation to Remove Social Barriers based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (J-All)

The Japan Alliance for Legislation to Remove Social Barriers based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (J-All) is a Japanese organization founded in 2015 with ambitions to legislate laws in Japan to remove social barriers based on sexual orientation and gender identity. J-All advise and evaluate a wide range of policies by referring to past cases, data, views of experts and track records of cooperation with local governments, alongside provide legal support and consulting for private businesses. To advocate their cause to the greater Japanese public, J-All also hosts lectures and study sessions regarding the various systems and social trends of LGBTQ issues on behalf of local governments, private companies, labor unions and educational institutions.

Japan International Center for the Rights of the Child (C-Rights)

The Japan International Center for the Rights of the Child (C-Rights) is a certified NPO that works towards the realization of the rights of all children around the world. Established in 1992, C-Rights works to promote and realize the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in Japan and abroad, particularly in developing countries and achieve a world where the rights of every child set forth in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child are realized, and children can pursue the happiness regardless the situation they are in or country where they reside. Much of their advocacy and activities are centred around supporting children in Cambodia, particularly issues of child labor and human trafficking.

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Asian states have ratified a variety of international human rights conventions. Nevertheless, human rights abuses and violations are common. People and refugees are facing arbitrary detention, torture and enforced disappearance. Beside learning about human rights from world-class lecturers, studying with a regional focus comes with many unique perks and invaluable experiences. Here are 6 human rights law schools in Asia for you to consider:

University of Hong Kong – Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong

Master of Laws (LL.M) in Human Rights Programme

The University of Hong Kong established its Master of Laws in Human Rights Programme in 1999 in order to focus on international human rights issues, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. As an interdisciplinary programme, students are required to draw upon other disciplines such as history, politics, philosophy and sociology to ensure human rights law is understood in context. By the end of the programme, students will have learned to understand the international human rights legal framework, reflect on human rights challenges from global, regional and domestic perspectives and apply their knowledge to advocate for real change. Teachers include renowned experts in the field from around the world including eminent scholars, judges, United Nations (UN) human rights mandate holders, and heads of non-governmental organisations.

Soochow University – Taipei, Taiwan

Master Degree in Human Rights Program

As the only human rights master degree offered in Taiwan, the Master Degree in Human Rights Program aims to deepen the education and research of international human rights and train students to apply their knowledge to the real world. Students are required to complete 24 credits of coursework focusing on “human rights philosophy topics”, “special topics and research on history of human rights thinking” and “special topics on international human rights law”, alongside a thesis and internship in the field of human rights. To complement the human rights education, Soochow University hosts several seminars and human rights weeks every year to exchange information with international scholars.

Mahidol University – Phutthamonthon, Thailand

Asia Pacific Master of Arts in Human Rights and Democratisation (APMA)

The Asia Pacific Master of Arts in Human Rights and Democratisation (APMA) is a 12-month interdisciplinary graduate program jointly offered by the Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies of Mahidol University (Thailand), Ateneo de Manila University (Philippines, Kathmandu School of Law (Nepal), University of Colombo (Sri Lanka), and Universitas Gadjah Mada (Indonesia). The program is designed for students who seek a deeper understanding of regional and global human rights issues and the promotion of democracy, peace and development in the Asia Pacific.

By the end of the program, students will have excellent knowledge of theory and practice of the promotion and protection of human rights and democratization, the ability to undertake independent scholarly research on human rights and democratization issues in the Asia Pacific and apply their knowledge of human rights in real situations.

Students will study at Mahidol University for their first and second semesters and will later proceed to study at their chosen partner university (Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines, Kathmandu School of Law in Nepal, University of Colombo in Sri Lanka, or Universitas Gadjah Madah in Indonesia) where they take their remaining classes.

Paññasastra University of Cambodia – Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Master’s Programmes in International Human Rights Law, Faculty of Law and Public Affairs

The Master’s Programmes in International Human Rights Law is offered by the Faculty of Law and Public Affairs at Paññasastra University of Cambodia (PUC-FLPA). Offered in English, it is an international level programme that draws on the academic and practitioner strengths of the Faculty as well as the extensive number of human rights experts associated with Paññasastra University of Cambodia (PUC). Since 2014, the Master’s Programmes
in International Human Rights Law is offered with support from the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (RWI), an independent academic institution affiliated with Lund University in Sweden.

By the end of the program, students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of international and regional human rights, with a focus on the Asia Pacific region, hold high level competency in research, writing, critical thinking and analysis, advocacy, legal reasoning and problem-solving and utilize their knowledge and competency to help promote and protect human rights.

University of Jember – Jember, Indonesia

Master Program in Human Rights (MA/LLM)

The Master Program in Human Rights (MA/LLM) is a program offered by the University of Jember’s Centre for Human Rights, Multiculturalism and Migration and aims to promote the research of human rights. To advance the advocacy and research of human rights, the Centre for Human Rights, Multiculturalism and Migration conducts annual conferences, inviting world-renowned professors, practitioners and policymakers and publish scholarly articles in the Journal of Southeast Asian Human Rights.

Hitotsubashi University – Tokyo, Japan

Democracy and Human Rights Program, Institute for Global Governance Research

The Institute for Global Governance Research of Hitotsubashi University offers its graduate democracy and human rights program, which aims to promote a deeper understanding of the current state of the liberal international order through research on the global situation of democratic and human rights norms and institutions. The program trains students to craft policy proposals that contribute to the maintenance of the liberal international order and research and defend liberal values.

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Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) – Tokyo, Japan

JICA is a governmental agency that delivers the majority of official development assistance for the Japanese government and aims to bolster socio-economic growth in developing nations and promote international cooperation. JICA offers a specialized application process for new graduates with no prior experience and provides housing and commuting allowances for its staff. Employees are also expected to have overseas assignments across the Asia Pacific every 2-4 years throughout their time at JICA. New graduate recruitment at JICA occurs annually in April and successful applicants will start their position in the following April.

Human Rights Now – Tokyo, Japan

Human Rights Now (HRN) is an international human rights non-governmental organization with UN special consultative status and works for the promotion and protection of human rights with a specialized focus on Asia and Japan. Human Rights Now regularly posts job openings on its website and often recruits motivated individuals with 0-2 year’s experience. Alongside full-time work opportunities, Human Rights Now also has an extensive internship program for university students.

Japan Association for Refugees – Tokyo, Japan

The Japan Association for Refugees (JAR) provides assistance for refugees from their arrival in Japan and until they can lead a self-supporting life.  JAR works as a project implementing partner in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and aims to gain legal, social and integrative support for refugees in Japan. JAR occasionally recruits entry level candidates with 0-2 years of experience who are committed to human rights advocacy and upload job postings on their website.

Citizen’s Alliance for North Korean Human Rights (NKHR) – Seoul, South Korea

The Citizen’s Alliance for North Korean Human Rights (NKHR) is the world’s oldest non-governmental organization devoted exclusively to the protection of human rights in North Korea and was the first organization to bring human rights violations in North Korea to the attention of the United Nations and the international community. NKHR periodically posts job openings on their LinkedIn page and are eligible candidates should possess a relevant university degree, in which no professional experience is necessary.

Justice Centre Hong Kong – Hong Kong

Justice Center Hong Kong is a non-profit organisation that works in partnership with community members across Hong Kong to support refugees, asylum seekers and other forced migrants. The organization seeks to recruit passionate individuals committed to the protection of refugees and is open to hiring individuals with minimal professional experience. Justice Center Hong Kong also has an internship program for university students seeking to delve within the human rights industry following graduation.

Malaysian Centre for Constitutionalism and Human Rights – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Malaysian Centre for Constitutionalism and Human Rights (MCCHR) is a non-partisan and non-profit organisation aimed to promote and protect human rights in Malaysia through its UNDIMSIA! civic education program and strategic litigation approaches. MCCHR is often on the lookout for university graduates with approximately 2 years of experience to join their team and regularly posts new positions on their online job board.

Asia Pacific Forum – Remote

Founded in 1996, the Asia Pacific Forum (APF) has created a strong and united platform that brings together national human rights institutions (NHRIs) from all corners of the Asia Pacific to address some of the most serious human rights challenges in the region. APF works in East Asian and South East Asian countries such as Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, India, Nepal, Philippines, Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong. Employment opportunities are often advertised on their website and many of their posted jobs do not require prior professional experience.

Covenants Watch – Taipei, Taiwan

Covenants Watch is a human rights NGO based in Taipei, Taiwan, dedicated to monitoring the implementation of the international human rights instruments by the Taiwanese government. Renowned for its comprehensive research publications in human rights issues and treaty reviews, Covenants Watch recruits both full-time workers and interns on their website and encourages driven individuals to apply.

Cambodian Human Rights and Development Association – Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Founded by a group of former political prisoners in 1991 after the signing of the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements and the conclusion of the Cambodian Civil War, the Cambodian Human Rights and Development Association (ADHOC) is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit and non-governmental organization that seeks to monitor and investigate human rights violations in Cambodia. Alongside its commitment to protect human rights, ADHOC provides free legal assistance and support to victims, empower individuals and communities to enable them to defend their rights, and engage in advocacy work through its Central Office in Phnom Penh and its 17 provincial offices across the country. While ADHOC recruits individuals with varying levels of experience, the organization regularly posts job openings for motivated individuals aged 25 and older who hold a university degree and does not necessarily have prior professional experience.

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Want to begin a career in the nonprofit world? In some cases, you might start at a higher-level job (like if you are transitioning from another career), but for most people, an entry-level job is much more common. Here are ten examples of jobs and where you can apply:

Canvasser

Canvassers work as fundraisers for organizations, going door to door to educate people on issues and collect donations. They can also help launch campaigns, build and train trains, and develop fundraising strategies. You’ll learn about the most pressing issues and what resonates most with people. Passion and excellent communication skills are important. Previous experience in sales or working with the public can be an asset, but many nonprofits will hire people without much experience.

Grant writer

Grant writers are fundraisers. They’re responsible for organizing and writing compelling grant proposals, collaborating with a team, and developing relationships with stakeholders. You’ll need excellent writing skills, an understanding of fundraising, and the ability to find grant opportunities. Organizations typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in writing or a related field, as well as a few years of grant writing experience.

Help desk coordinator

Most nonprofits today rely on technology to run smoothly. Someone at the nonprofit needs to know how to troubleshoot technical issues. Help desk employees – like help desk coordinators – provide hardware and technical support to employees and users, improve processes, and install software. Most organizations require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and a year or two of experience. Desired skills include excellent problem-solving, good communication regarding IT, and excellent time management.

Project assistant

Project assistants work with a project manager and team to meet deadlines, keep things organized, and contribute to a project’s success. Responsibilities can include monitoring schedules and budgets, assigning tasks, completing administrative tasks, and reporting on updates. Most organizations want a candidate with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, as well as two years or so of relevant work experience.

Social media associate

Social media associates run an organization’s social media brand on various platforms. That includes creating content and developing strategies to raise brand awareness. Associates also work closely with other marketing teams or the social media director if the organization is large enough to have one. You’ll likely need a bachelor’s degree in communication or marketing, though a strong knowledge of social media marketing may be good enough for some nonprofits. A few years of experience – either in general marketing or social media specifically – may be required, too.

Event coordinator

Many nonprofits hold events to fundraise or thank stakeholders. Most event planners start as event coordinators. Coordinators handle the details laid out by the event planner and make sure the logistics work out. They manage all the steps through the event. Higher education isn’t usually required, but degrees in marketing or hospitality can help. You’ll need excellent organization and time management, as well as strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Finance officer

Finance officers are part of the finance and administrative team at a nonprofit. They work on budget monitoring, financial records, and other processing. Most organizations require at least a bachelor’s degree in financial management and accounting and a few years of experience. Desired skills include excellent analytical skills, good time management, and knowledge of finance and accounting software and procedures.

Human resources assistant

HR assistants support an organization’s human resources specialist. Assistants will learn about recruitment, training, records, and benefits. They’re responsible for clerical details such as maintaining personnel files, posting job announcements, reaching out to job applicants, and helping employees change their benefit plans. Desired skills include excellent communication, administrative writing, strong organizational skills, and time management. Most nonprofits ask for at least a bachelor’s degree and maybe 1-2 years of relevant experience.

Administrative assistant

Administrative assistants support the administrative team. Responsibilities include filing, typing, and copying, as well as answering calls, scheduling meetings, managing databases, and other operational work. You’ll need skills like excellent time management, organization, problem-solving, and administrative writing. Education requirements can vary, but an associate’s degree or certificate is often sufficient. A few years of relevant experience also helps.

Research assistant

Many nonprofits rely on good research for their work. Research assistants work with a team on administrative and academic tasks. Responsibilities can include conducting background research, creating documentation, assisting with surveys and interviews, and more. You should be organized, detail-oriented, and great communicators. A strong academic background is important, as well as a master’s degree or sometimes a doctorate.

Where to apply

Beginner non-profit jobs can be found at the local, national, and international levels. Locally, you can find jobs at organizations like food banks, tutoring centers, addiction recovery organizations, and other social service organizations. Local organizations are often smaller and may not require as much experience for certain jobs, so they’re a great option if you’re starting your career or transitioning to non-profit work.

Here are some examples of where to apply:

• International Rescue Committee (IRC) – This international NGO responds to human rights crises, resettles refugees, and rebuilds communities in more than 40 countries.
• Oxfam – This organization (which has its international secretariat in Oxford, London) works with thousands of partner organizations to combat poverty. Regional and national offices offer many entry-level jobs.
• Amnesty International – One of the best-known international organizations, AI monitors human rights records and advocates for justice. Many entry-level positions (like assistant roles) are available at their offices.
• Doctors Without Borders – The world’s leading independent medical relief organization, Doctors Without Borders is found in 72 countries. It focuses on emergency humanitarian and medical assistance.

Online nonprofit job boards (like Idealist, DevEx and Human Rights Careers) can help you narrow down your search by experience level, location, salary range, and more.

The post 10 Entry Level Non-Profit Jobs and Where To Apply appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Law is one of the key enforcement mechanisms for human rights. Lawyers focused on human rights can work with individuals, groups, intergovernmental organizations, international courts, and more. To build a career in human rights law, you must first specialize in the field. Here are ten human rights law schools based in the United States:

UVA Law

Charlottesville, VA
Human Rights Program/International Human Rights Law Clinic

With UVA Law’s Human Rights Program, faculty members, student groups, and other departments coordinate speakers, summer and postgraduate employment, and more. The International Human Rights Law Clinic is at the program’s heart. Human rights lawyers, NGOs in the US, and international NGOs provide Clinic students experience and knowledge in areas like gender equality and sports; reparations; migrant rights; indigenous rights; transitional justice; and much more.

Students at the Clinic have worked on projects like the U.N. Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women. They participated in organizing a round table with US gender and rights advocates, drafting a briefing paper, coordinating and editing five civil society briefing papers, and contributing to the special rapporteur’s 2013 thematic report.

St. Thomas College of Law

Miami Gardens, FL
Human Rights Institute/Master of Laws in Intracultural Human Rights

The St. Thomas University Human Rights Institute promotes human rights through research and education, social advocacy, and direct services. For the last decade, the Institute has researched areas like economic micro-development, refugee services, social services, and more. In 2021, the College of Law announced the Benjamin L. Crump Center for Social Justice, which will train the next generation of what the press release describes as “social justice engineers.”

St. Thomas College of Law also offers a unique LL.M. program focused on the protection of human rights. Lawyers, teachers, human rights activists, government officials, and others join the program led by faculty from the United Nations and other centers of scholarship. In the program, students learn the major theories, practices, and essential concepts in international human rights law. They also gain experience in research and advocacy. Honor graduates are eligible to apply for the Doctor of Science of Law program in Intracultural Human Rights.

Fordham University, School of Law

New York, NY
International Human Rights Clinic/LL.M. in International Law and Justice

Fordham University is home to The Walter Leitner International Human Rights Clinic, founded and led by Professor Chi Adanna Mgbako, a human rights scholar and advocate. The Clinic includes human rights training, legal and policy analysis, public interest lawsuits, and more. In collaboration with grassroots justice organizations, the Clinic focuses on projects such as women’s rights and gender justice, sex worker rights, and LGBTQ rights.

Fordham University also offers an LL.M. program in International Law and Justice, which was created with support from the human rights Clinic. Students gain a deep understanding of human rights protection and promotion. Each student must take 24 credits of approved courses, including 12 credits of Specialization Distribution Courses.

Georgetown University Law

Washington, D.C.
Human Rights Institution (HRI)

The HRI at Georgetown Law is one of the country’s leading teaching and training institutions for human rights. Every year, it partners with students to decide on the focus of the Fact-Finding Project’s Work, which looks at human rights violations and recommends policy changes and legislation. Georgetown Law provides other opportunities for students to research and engage in human rights. There are clinical programs on issues like immigration law and policy. Graduate students can earn qualifications in Refugees and Humanitarian Emergencies or International Human Rights.

There are many human rights courses to choose from, including smaller seminars, clinics, practicums, and lecture-style courses. J.D. students can also pursue clinical programs like the International Women’s Human Rights Clinic, the policy Clinic at the Harrison Institute for Public Law, and the Civil Rights Clinic.

Columbia Law School

New York, NY
The Human Rights Institute/Social Justice and Human Rights

The Human Rights Institute at Columbia Law School is the center of human rights scholarship at the school. Established in 1998, the institute and Human Rights Clinic has deep roots in Human Rights in the United States; Counter-Terrorism and Human Rights; and Human Rights and the Global Economy. Students gain research and practical experience working initiatives and cases with both the school’s faculty and human rights organizations.

Students can also choose Social Justice and Human Rights as their area of study. There are summer funding opportunities, post-graduate fellowships, advanced seminars, human rights fellowships for LL.M. students, clinics, and more. Faculty and alumni from Columbia Law have gone on to organizations like the United Nations, Amnesty International, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

Yale Law School

New Haven, CT
The Schell Center/Human Rights Law Clinic

Established in 1989, the Schell Center coordinates a program of human rights activities for students and scholars at Yale, including panels and lectures, a weekly Human Rights Workshop, summer and post-graduate fellowships, and guidance to students on human rights research and career opportunities. The Schell Center also supports the Multidisciplinary Academic Program in Human Rights, which provides undergraduates with an interdisciplinary perspective on human rights study.

Yale is also home to the Allard K. Lowenstein International Human Rights Law Clinic. This course gives students practical experience, the knowledge and skills needed for human rights lawyers, and the opportunity to contribute to human rights protection. Each year, students in the Clinic earn three credits for practical work on human rights issues, which is usually through collaborating with an NGO.

Harvard Law School

Cambridge, MA
The Human Rights Program/International Human Rights Clinic

Founded in 1984, the Human Rights Program helps scholars, advocates, and students expand their knowledge of human rights. Activities include summer and post-graduate fellowships and opportunities for experiential learning. In partnership with student organizations – like the Harvard Human Rights Journal – the program examines human rights issues. The program also supports students working on research projects with human rights organizations.

Harvard Law’s Human Rights Program works closely with the International Human Rights Clinic. Through supervised instruction, students learn about human rights activism and how to protect human rights. Students work in small project teams to strengthen their advocacy and ethical skills. The Clinic is held in the Fall and Spring semesters.

University of California Berkeley School of Law

Berkeley, CA
The Human Rights Center/The International Human Rights Clinic

The Human Rights Center at Berkeley School of Law researches war crimes and other human rights and international humanitarian law violations. The Center works to protect human rights, hold perpetrators accountable, and train students to research, investigate, and document violations. Opportunities for students include the Investigations Lab, the first university-based open source lab finding and verifying human rights violations. Students work in teams to find, verify, and analyze information found on social media. There’s also a series of human rights courses supported by the Center and a student fellowship program.

The International Human Rights Law Clinic works closely with the Center. The Clinic focuses on four areas: the promotion of human rights in the US; economic, social, and cultural rights; counter-terrorism and human rights; and accountability and transitional justice. Students develop innovative solutions and work on a variety of human rights projects.

CUNY School of Law

Long Island City, NY
Justice Centers/Clinics

CUNY School of Law has many opportunities for students studying human rights. Their Justice Centers support intersectional approaches to human rights issues, law and policy, and transformative justice. Students, faculty, and community partners collaborate on the work. There are three Justice Centers: the Center on Latinx Rights and Equality; the Center for Urban Environmental Reform; and the Sorensen Center for International Peace and Justice.

CUNY is the #1 clinical program in the nation with a series of experiential learning clinics focused on experience and essential skills. The Human Rights and Gender Justice Clinic engages students (under close supervision) with projects and human rights practice education. Other clinics include the Disability & Aging Justice Clinic, the Equality & Justice Clinic, and the Workers Rights Clinic.

Stanford Law School

Stanford, CA
Stanford Human Rights Center / Law and Policy Lab

Established in 2013, the Stanford Human Rights Center focuses on public policy analysis, identifying international best practices, detention conditions, and the inter-American human rights center. On campus, it promotes events, student engagement, and public understanding of human rights. The Center also works closely with Stanford’s International Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Clinic. At the time of this article’s writing, the Clinic was inactive as it looked for its next Director.

At the Law and Policy Labs, students work under the guidance of faculty advisors on real-world problems. The labs serve real clients on law and policy issues including education, governance and transparency, energy and the environment, and more. First-year courses examine basic legal doctrines while advanced courses examine policy.

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In 1942, representatives from 26 countries signed the Declaration of the United Nations, marking the first usage of the term “united nations.” It wasn’t the first time the international community had attempted to come together, but the League of Nations, which had been founded in 1920, was failing. The League had its final meeting in 1946, one year after the signing of the United Nations Charter. Three years later, as WWII came to an end, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights established universal human rights and freedoms. Since those early days, the UN has sought to achieve four goals: keep world peace; develop friendly relations between nations; help nations improve the lives of the poor and encourage rights and freedoms; and serve as a center for achieving these goals. What is working for the UN like? In this article, we’ll describe the UN’s structure, the advantages of working for the organization, and the disadvantages.

The structure of the United Nations

The UN is the world’s largest and best-known intergovernmental organization, which is a type of organization made of sovereign states established by a treaty. The UN has five main organs:

The General Assembly

The GA is the main deliberative body. It consists of representatives from all the Member States. Each State gets one vote. It’s based at the UN headquarters in New York City, New York.

The UN Secretariat

This organ is made of staff representing all nationalities that work at duty stations around the world. The Secretariat handles the everyday work of the UN and administers the programs and policies. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is part of this organ.

The Security Council

Made of 15 Members, the Security Council is responsible for maintaining international peace and security.

The Economic and Social Council

This organ debates economic, social, and environmental challenges and issues policy recommendations. The World Health Organization (The WHO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) are specialized agencies within this council.

International Court of Justice

As the judicial organ of the UN, the Court settles legal disputes between States and provides advisory opinions to the UN and its agencies.

Advantages of working for the UN

The UN has offices in 195 countries and around 37,000 employees. Here are the pros of working for this huge organization:

There are lots of career opportunities

Within the UN system, there are 45 job “families” and nine job networks. Job families are occupations and sub-occupations grouped in a common work field. The job networks are flexible groupings of job families. The reason for this structure is so employees can get multidisciplinary opportunities for new skills and experience within different parts of the UN. The nine networks are:

• Management and Administration- Families include administration, audit, ethics, finance, and human resources
• Economic, Social and Development – Families include environmental affairs, social affairs, sustainable development, and statistics
• Political, Peace and Humanitarian – Families include civil affairs, rule of law, human rights affairs, and electoral affairs
• Information and Telecommunication Technology – Families are media technology, telecommunications technology, and information management systems and technology
• Legal – Families are jurists and legal affairs
• Public information and conference management – Families include conference services, language, protocol, and public information
• Internal security and safety network – Families are security and safety
• Logistics, transportation and supply chain – Families are engineering, facilities management, human settlements, and transportation
• Science – Families are medical and natural and life sciences

The UN works to promote justice and protect human rights

Through its many entities, the UN is the world’s largest organization working for human rights and justice. Whether you want to work in women’s rights, public health, food security, sustainable development, or other similar areas, the UN has many career opportunities.

• UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) – the UN fund focusing on children’s rights and health
• WHO (World Health Organization) – the specialized agency responsible for directing and coordinating international health in the UN system
• WFP (World Food Programme)- the UN program focused on eliminating hunger and malnutrition
• UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) – the UN body responsible for protecting refugees

You have opportunities to travel

For those who’ve always wanted to travel the world, the United Nations is a great place to work. An employee will likely need to travel at some point. The UN is also a great place to work if you’ve wanted to live in another country. Traveling opens you up to different cultures, food, languages, and experiences. There are offices in 195 countries, including:

• Armenia
• Bahamas
• Chile
• Djibouti
• Greece
• Nepal
• Samoa
• Zambia

The UN generally pays well

There’s a wide range of salaries within the UN system, but generally, the pay is good. The UN has a specific pay structure for Field service and Professional & higher categories. The salary level for Professional staff is set by referring to the highest-paying national civil service. The salary scales for (P) jobs are based on five grades (P-1 to P-5) and two Director levels (D-1 and D-2).

• Entry level (P1 – P3): 37,000 USD – 80,000 USD
• Mid-career (P4 – P5): 67,000 USD – 106,000 USD
• Senior level (D1 – D2): 95,000 USD – 123,000 USD

You can look for salary scales for specific years on the UN’s Salaries, Allowances, Benefits, and Job Classification website. Depending on where you live, even a salary on the lower end can go far.

The UN has great benefits

Many UN careers come with excellent benefits. Not every job comes with the same perks, but the UN is known for good remuneration packages. Benefits can include:

• Dependency allowances for eligible spouses and/or children
• Travel and shipping expenses when you’re moving from a different duty station
• Hardship allowances for working at certain duty stations
• Hazard pay for hazardous and stressful locations
• 18-30 days of vacation time per year
• Possible home leave travel
• UN-sponsored medical insurance plans

Disadvantages of working for the UN

Before considering working for the United Nations, it’s important to understand its downsides. This gives you a realistic and not rose-colored view of the organization and its complexities. Here are the main cons to know about:

It’s hard to get a job at the UN

The first downside of the UN is how challenging it is to get a job there. As the world’s most prestigious international organization, it makes sense that it would have extremely high standards. It’s rare for anyone to just waltz into a (P) level job. Most start with short-term contracts like positions with the United Nations Volunteers. These positions offer a small living allowance and medical insurance to volunteers (who must be at least 25-years old) who serve 6-12 months. There are also Junior Professional Officer positions at agencies like UNICEF and UNHCR. There are age and national restrictions, as well as requirements like a few years of experience. With a structure like this, your career will likely not be stable for quite a while.

The UN system is bureaucratic and complicated

As a huge organization, the UN is difficult to navigate. Settling into a career in such a complex system is frustrating to many people. Recruitment, job structure, and trying to move up in the organization are frequent sources of stress for workers. The UN also has a reputation for depending on processes and systems even when they aren’t effective. This is serious business for an organization dedicated to protecting human rights and striving for world peace. Working for an organization bogged down by bureaucracy can be infuriating and disheartening when lives are on the line. In 2016, Anthony Banbury resigned his position as the Assistant Secretary-General for Field Support. In an opinion piece for the New York Times, he wrote: “If you locked a team of evil geniuses in a laboratory, they could not design a bureaucracy so maddeningly complex, requiring so much effort but in the end incapable of delivering the intended result.”

The UN has a history of scandals

There have been several scandals at the UN, including child sexual abuse by UN peacekeepers. An AP investigation in 2017 exposed a child sex abuse ring in Haiti run by more than 100 UN peacekeepers over 10 years. None were imprisoned for their crimes. The report also found more than 2,000 global allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation over 12 years. In the article covering the abuse, a survivor was quoted: “As far as the U.N. goes, they came here to protect us, but all they’ve brought is destruction.” With the abuse so widespread, it’s reasonable to suspect the problems are systemic. While any organization as large and significant as the UN will have abuse and corruption, the UN must be held to a higher standard.

Working for the UN can be dangerous

Many UN field offices are based in dangerous areas. According to UN data reported by NPR, 56 peacekeepers died from violence in 2017. This represented the highest number of fatalities since 1994. The reason for the increased danger is the heightened violence in conflict areas, as well as the UN’s deeper involvement in the conflicts. According to Conor Foley, who worked as the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations from 2010 to 2012, peacekeepers are pushed to be more assertive in protecting civilians. This is part of the job, but it does put peacekeepers at more risk. Not all UN careers are risky, but it’s important to know that they can be.

Final thoughts

The United Nations is a huge, complicated organization with some serious systemic issues. It is also the world’s largest and most respected international organization committed to peace and human rights. It has access and resources no other organization does. Even if you don’t spend your entire career working at the UN, there are many opportunities available there, including travel, good pay, good job benefits, and projects that make a real difference in the world.

The post Advantages and Disadvantages Working for the UN appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Humanitarian aid refers to mostly short-term assistance in the form of materials (like medical supplies, food, water, etc) and logistic aid. It’s intended to provide help quickly in the aftermath of various crises (floods, conflict, disease outbreaks) until the government and other organizations can develop long-term plans. The goal is to save lives, relieve suffering, and protect human dignity. Meeting these goals is expensive but necessary. Using data from sources like UNICEF’s Global Annual Results Report 2020 as a guide, we can identify 15 key reasons why humanitarian aid is so important:

#1. Hundreds of millions need humanitarian aid

According to a 2021 United Nations report, an estimated 274 million people will need humanitarian aid in 2022. This represents a year-over-year increase of 17%. The report gives more reasons for the higher number, such as a rise in extreme poverty. 43 countries (and 45 million people) are also at risk of famine. To meet this record need, it will take $41 billion, a budget experts like Martin Griffiths, UN Humanitarian Affairs chief, are doubtful about receiving. Humanitarians will do what they can with the funds they get. Last year, even in the face of extreme need due to COVID, the humanitarian system was able to reach 70% of its target. While aid doesn’t fix the causes of a crisis, it undeniably lives and relieves suffering.

#2. Aid saves millions

Saving lives is the main goal of humanitarian aid. When food, water, medical supplies, and other resources are mobilized, human lives are saved from dangers like disease, hunger, thirst, and exposure to the elements. Let’s look at UNICEF as an example. In 2020, 4 million children with severe acute malnutrition were admitted to treatment programs. Without these programs, these kids would likely have died. 17 million kids (age 6 months-15 years) were vaccinated against measles, a disease that killed over 200,000 people in 2019. Without programs targeting issues like hunger and disease, death counts would be higher.

#3. Aid is needed quickly in emergencies

Humanitarian aid is essential during crises like droughts, natural disasters, or conflicts. With very quick turnarounds, organizations mobilize huge amounts of resources and deploy wherever they’re needed. As an example, the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) can deploy within 12-48 hours anywhere in the world. Their role is to help during the first phase of an emergency and assist in coordinating incoming international relief. Governments move much slower, so emergency aid is needed as a stop-gap measure.

#4. Aid meets nutritional needs

Food is one of the most important concerns during crises. Without proper nutrition, people are at risk for a host of health problems, as well as death. Organizations like the World Food Programme focus on meeting nutritional needs. It’s the largest humanitarian organization providing school meals to children. In 2020, WFP provided 15 million children with school meals. With UNICEF, WFP also supports governments in adopting an integrated approach to children’s nutrition and health, which includes school meal programs.

#5. Aid addresses water and sanitation issues

WASH (which stands for water, sanitation, and hygiene) is a major focus for many humanitarian groups. Without access to clean drinking water and sanitation, people face the risk of waterborne disease, dehydration, and other problems. A variety of crises can threaten WASH, including natural and man-made disasters. Humanitarian organizations mobilize to build proper systems (like garbage and waste disposal), hand out clean water, and provide education on WASH.

#6. Aid meets health needs

Humanitarian efforts include medical and mental health projects. In just about any crisis, health is a primary concern. Some crises are specifically health crises, like disease outbreaks. Aid consists of things like medical supplies and medical professionals who can deliver services like vaccinations. The COVID-19 pandemic is a prime example of the need for medical humanitarian aid. Vaccinations, supplies, personal protective equipment, and medical personnel are all needed.

#7. Aid addresses a lack of shelter

According to the UNHCR, shelter is “a vital survival mechanism in times of crisis or displacement.” It’s essential to “restoring personal security, self-sufficiency and dignity.” Providing shelter during crises can be complicated. In urban areas, refugees often have to live in public buildings and other informal settlements where conditions can be poor. Shelter concerns include shelter materials, technical support, rental support, cash assistance, safety, privacy, and more. Without proper shelter, it’s very difficult for a community to regroup and rebuild.

#8. Aid protects education for children

Crises disrupt education for children and deprive them of schools, which are a shelter from abuse and exploitation. School is also where many children receive essential services like food, clean water, healthcare, and hygiene. Schools are also a source of psychosocial support, which children will need more of during emergencies. Humanitarian aid should include education, although currently, the education sector gets less than 3% of aid. There are other complications like staff shortages and coordination issues. Organizations like UNICEF work to protect education for children by creating safe learning spaces, training teachers, and supplying materials.

#9. Aid helps communities recover and rebuild

Humanitarian aid addresses emergency needs, but it can also play an important role in communities recovering and rebuilding. This approach, known as “Early Recovery,” is a multidimensional process that begins alongside addressing emergency needs. It focuses on building resilience, strengthening capacity, and contributing to fixing long-standing problems. Local ownership is prioritized, so communities can quickly become self-sustaining. Humanitarian organizations help in this process through various methods, including cash distributions, micro-finances, and livelihood development programs. Humanitarian aid is different from development aid, but in early recovery, humanitarian aid serves as a bridge to longer-term development.

#10. Aid helps communities prepare for crises

Disaster preparedness is part of humanitarian aid. As an example, for five years, 56% of all EU-funded humanitarian projects included a disaster preparedness component. These measures, which include governments, organizations, communities, and individuals, help areas better prepare and respond to disasters. Things like early warning systems, contingency plans, and stockpiling supplies and equipment can save lives, mitigate the effects of crises, and increase community resilience. This makes disaster preparedness a very cost-effective decision that helps aid organizations save more money.

#11. Climate change is a major humanitarian crisis

According to NOAA, the impacts of climate change on food and water are significant and interconnected. Drought harms food production and human health. Flooding spreads disease and damages infrastructure and ecosystems. Existing socio-economic inequities put marginalized groups at an increased risk. According to many experts, climate change is the worst threat humans currently face. This challenges the effectiveness of humanitarian aid, which is already unable to meet the needs of populations around the world. For years to come, humanitarian aid will need more funding to address the effects of climate change.

#12. Women and girls are affected differently by crises

Crises like drought, flooding, and conflict affect everyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable. Women and girls face more risks during displacement and when protective structures and support dissolve. They often handle risky responsibilities, as well, such as caring for people who are sick. In some crisis settings, more than 70% of women experience gender-based violence. COVID-19 worsened gender equality, as well. The global gender poverty gap for women aged 25-34 is expected to increase from 118 women for every 100 men in 2021 to 121 women in 2030. According to the World Economic Forum, COVID-19 added another 100 years to the journey toward gender parity. Many humanitarian organizations prioritize the most vulnerable girls and women to ensure they get the support and resources they need.

#13. Aid protects children and mothers

Like girls and women, children and mothers face unique risks during crises. In 2017, around 295,000 women died during and following pregnancy and childbirth. 94% took place in low-resource settings. Most could have been prevented. Factors like poverty, travel distance to facilities, and poor-quality services contribute to maternal mortality. Groups like UNICEF coordinate initiatives and campaigns targeting the specific needs of moms and kids. In 2020, over 500,000 children and pregnant/lactating women received health services and education. In Yemen, more than 260,000 children under 5 received treatment for severe acute malnutrition. In South Sudan, UNICEF worked with partners to provide 1.9 million pregnant and lactating women with counseling on infant and young child feeding.

#14. Aid is needed to deal with the long-term effects of COVID

The COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the world, reversing positive trends in extreme poverty, gender equality, and more. By the end of 2020, 270 million people were facing acute food insecurity. This represents an 82% increase since COVID started. The humanitarian world mobilized in a way it never has before, but the road to recovery is long and hard. If the world hopes to recover and rebuild from the pandemic, humanitarian aid (as well as government support) is needed now more than ever.

#15. Aid protects human rights (but needs to be anti-racist and equitable)

All human rights matter, but humanitarian aid protects what most people consider the most essential: life, water, food, sanitation, shelter, safety, and education. Governments are primarily responsible for providing and protecting these rights – especially after a crisis – but for one reason or another, many are unable or unwilling to. Humanitarian aid steps in to fill the void. Because of their responsibility, humanitarian organizations must be held to a high standard. That means reckoning with the history of aid and colonialism. In “Race, equity, and neo-colonial legacies: identifying paths forward for principled humanitarian action,” Saman Rejali writes: “In order to create more equitable and anti-racist institutions, the humanitarian sector must first acknowledge the role neo-colonial legacies continue to play in humanitarian assistance and protection activities and within humanitarian organizations, which are most at need of equity-driven systemic changes.”

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An NGO (non-governmental organization) is a nonprofit group separate from the government. Beyond that, there is no universal definition of “NGO,” but many NGOs focus on humanitarian issues, including but not limited to gender equality, poverty, and international development. How much do NGO workers get paid? In this article, we’ll describe what factors determine salary, the types of jobs NGO workers fill, and what salaries are common for those jobs.

Factors for an NGO worker salary

Several factors determine an NGO worker’s salary. By knowing what these factors are, you can understand how an organization structures its salary and recognize whether an NGO falls short on how much it pays its employees. Key factors include:

• Seniority: Where in the organization’s hierarchy does an employee fit in? Jobs with more seniority and leadership in an NGO pay more.
• Responsibilities: The responsibilities an employee has and the difficulty of those responsibilities should factor into salary. Jobs with more specialized responsibilities often pay more because the candidate pool is smaller.
• Employee’s past job experience: An employee with more experience earns more than an employee early in their career. The employee’s compensation history is also a factor.
• Job comparability: How much do similar NGOs pay for similar jobs? What is the industry standard for the job given its responsibilities?
• Geography: A job based in an area with a higher cost of living should pay more than a similar job in an area with a lower cost of living. Jobs based in more dangerous areas (think NGO workers in conflict zones) also often include hardship pay.
• Size of the organization: Organizations with smaller budgets (like local NGOs) tend to pay less than well-known NGOs with larger budgets for paying staff.

NGO jobs and common salaries

There are most likely millions of NGOs around the world, so there’s a huge range of jobs and salaries. Here are some examples of careers and the range of salaries you can expect.

International aid worker

Job description: International aid workers often work for government agencies, but NGOs hire these workers, as well. They’re sent wherever their NGO wants them based on their skills. They could work in healthcare, education, development, and so on. The work is often dangerous because of problems like violence, disease, or natural disasters.

Salary: International aid workers tend to have fairly modest salaries. Schmoop estimates a yearly salary of $30,000, but depending on where the job is based, even a small salary can go a long way. Aid workers also often receive stipends for housing, insurance, and utilities.

Researcher

Job description: NGOs, especially NGOs that publish reports, hire researchers to investigate and compile data on a variety of topics. A researcher’s responsibilities can include figuring out research goals and sources, collecting and verifying information, and organizing and analyzing data. Researchers may be on staff or hired as contractors.

Salary: It’s tricky to get a salary range for a researcher at an NGO. The salaries are typically less than what a researcher with a government agency or large corporation would receive. According to Glassdoor, a researcher at Amnesty International London is paid an average of £52,180 per year.

Grant specialist

Job description: NGOs depend on funding sources like donations, but grants are just as important. A grant specialist’s job is to seek out grants relevant to the NGO and complete applications. They might also be responsible for managing any grant money the NGO receives.

Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, the average pay for a “nonprofit grant writer” in the United States is $55,592 a year. Salaries can range as low as $20,500 and as high as $86,500. This wide range shows that many of the job factors we listed earlier (past job experience, size of the organization, etc) are in play.

International social worker

Job description: While often thought of as a job with a government agency, social workers also work in NGOs. If they work internationally, social workers primarily work for NGOs. International social workers work for organizations like the International Rescue Committee and Oxfam on coordinating various human services projects. That includes providing education, counseling, resources, and other assistance for children, refugees, people with disabilities, and others.

Salary: According to Indeed, social workers make around $60,000 a year. The Psychology School Guide lists a range of $35,000-$75,000. Experience and skills like fluency in multiple languages will likely mean a higher salary.

Community health worker

Job description: Social service agencies, clinics, and NGOs hire community health workers. To help establish trust, community health workers are typically hired from within the served community or – at the very least – a community whose culture the worker is extremely familiar with. Community health workers provide health education, advocate for services and resources, and assist other health workers, like health educators and doctors.

Salary: A community health worker’s salary varies significantly based on where they’re working. According to Salary.com, workers in the United States make an average of $39,079 per year. It can go as high as $45,148.

NGO program director

Job description: NGOs depend on program directors for management, fundraising, strategic planning, and monitoring. As a higher-level job, directors must be excellent leaders and communicators. Specific responsibilities vary based on the NGO’s vision and goals, but the director is responsible for crafting successful programs. They often serve as a public face of the NGO, as well.

Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, the average NGO director in the United States makes $71,650 a year. Salaries can go as low as $39,500 and as high as $168,000. As a leader, directors will make one of the higher salaries in an organization, so it seems reasonable to say that specific pay depends heavily on factors like the NGO’s size and job location.

Accountant

Job description: On the surface, an accounting job at an NGO isn’t too different from an accounting job anywhere else. Responsibilities include preparing monthly payroll, maintaining and managing financial documents, processing financial transactions, and reviewing documents for compliance. What is unique, however, is the difference between for-profits and nonprofits. An accountant working at an NGO must understand all the financial laws. NGO accountants often work alongside bookkeepers, who also work in finance but are not the same as accountants.

Salary: According to ZipRecruiter, an NGO accountant in the United States makes $53,315 a year. Salaries range as low as $24,000 and as high as $95,500. Non-profit bookkeepers, who don’t have as much specialized education as accountants, make an average of $37,243 a year. The high end is $41,000, which indicates there’s not as much room for growth within the bookkeeping field. Many accountants start as bookkeepers, and with more education and experience, they can earn higher salaries.

Do NGOs pay well?

The underpaid NGO worker is a common stereotype. Research does show that people are willing to earn lower salaries if they find their work meaningful. Is it true that people have to sacrifice a good living for the greater good? The answer is more complicated than a simple “yes” or “no.” A PayScale salary survey compared eight distinct positions within the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, including marketing managers, staff accountants, and administrative assistants. Payscale found that nonprofit workers are twice as likely to say their job makes the world a better place. They also found that in seven of the eight positions, nonprofits workers earned 4-8% less than their for-profit counterparts. Marketing managers earned 18% less.

As always, factors like past work experience and geography determine a specific salary, so it isn’t always true that a nonprofit worker earns less than they would at the same job at a for-profit organization. There are also significantly more than eight jobs in the nonprofit world, so PayScale’s survey represents just a piece of the puzzle. What we can take from this, however, is that people who go into nonprofit work are consistently willing to take smaller salaries in exchange for work they find meaningful. NGOs should still pay employees well and ensure they aren’t financially struggling. NGO workers should also not feel guilty about wanting higher salaries or negotiating for their salary.

How to find out what NGOs are paying their workers

When you’re applying for a job at an NGO, they might not be clear about the salary right away. There are a few reasons for this, including the fact that the salary will be different for a candidate with, say, three years of professional experience than for a candidate who just graduated school. Want to get at least a vague idea of what the organization pays their people? In the United States, nonprofits are required to disclose information to the IRS about their top employees’ salaries through Form 990. To give the public access to this data, some nonprofits put the forms right on their own websites. You can also check sites like GuideStar and ProPublica’s Nonprofit Explorer. The IRS requires all U.S. tax-exempt nonprofits to make their three most recent 990s public. You can also look at sites like CharityNavigator for info on an NGO’s admin expenses, program expenses, governance, and transparency. For insight into how past and current employees view their NGO, see if there are views on Glassdoor.

The post How Much Do NGO Workers Get Paid? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The concept of human rights has existed for a long time, but in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) established “universal human rights.” After the atrocities of WWII, the UDHR’s authors recognized the need to formally declare that all humans deserved basic rights like the right to life, the right to freedom from torture, and the right to freedom from discrimination. Other human rights treaties – both binding and non-binding – have since emerged. Documents haven’t put an end to human rights violations, however. Injustices still flourish and activist movements around the world still call for governments, companies, and individuals to be held accountable. What does human rights activism look like?

Types of activist activities

Human rights activism comes in many forms. Any action calling for change and/or accountability counts as “activism.” Here are some of the key examples:

Letter-writing and petitions

Human rights activism has a long history of letter-writing and petitions. Advocacy organization Amnesty International runs Write For Rights, a letter-writing campaign that’s been held for two decades. It began in Poland with a group of friends who marked Human Rights Day with a 24-hour letter-writing marathon. Every December, people write letters, emails, postcards, tweets, and Facebook posts in support of human rights defenders, prisoners, and others. According to Amnesty, Write for Rights has become the world’s largest human rights campaign.

Petitions have also played a role in activism. In 2004, 16-year old Cyntoia Brown fatally shot a man. Despite her defense of having been sex trafficked and in fear for her life, she was sentenced to life in prison. In 2018, after the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled that Brown needed to serve at least 51 years in jail before being eligible for release, a petition on Change.org called for the governor to grant her clemency. Governor Haslam commuted her sentence and Brown was released.

Protests and marches

Protests involve more than marching, though pictures usually focus on groups walking with signs. Protests also include sit-ins, lie-ins, concerts, vigils, speeches, and other community events. They’re often organized around a theme. Because of their large size and often violent response from governments and police, protests and marches are some of the best-known forms of activism.

In China, peaceful protests began in 1989. They mostly involved students who wanted a more democratic political system in light of the government lifting some restrictions on the economy. In Tiananmen Square, which is at the heart of Beijing, around one million protesters gathered to chant slogans, wave banners, and sing. Armed forces arrived. The Tiananmen Square Massacre ended with thousands killed and over 10,000 people arrested. Not every protest ends so violently, but it can be dangerous for participants.

Strikes and boycotts

Boycotts and strikes often work in tandem. Workers will strike in a variety of situations, such as when they’re facing dangerous work environments or receiving low pay. Strikes are called when workers cannot come to a resolution with management. Striking workers will often ask consumers to boycott goods and services made by the company to pressure them to accept the workers’ terms. Other groups often call for boycotts if a company is discovered to have unethical practices, like the use of child labor, or a certain political stance that threatens human rights.

Strikes don’t always involve specific companies. In 1975, 90% of the women in Iceland went on strike to prove their importance to society. Factories, banks, stores, and schools had to close. Women also took the day off from domestic work, so men had to take care of children while women rallied in the streets. Five years later, Vigdis Finnbogadottir became Europe’s first female president and the first woman in the world to be democratically elected as a head of state.

If you would like to learn more about types of activism continue here.

What is “everyday activism?”

Many people earn their living working at activist NGOs and organizations, but the vast majority don’t make money from their activism. You don’t need a specific degree or special qualifications before you’re allowed to take action in your everyday life. Things like speaking up when you see injustice in public, staying updated on human rights news, and examining how you might be participating in oppressive systems are all important. Many areas have local activist groups, as well, where inexperienced activists can learn from others and understand how collective movements work.

The role of social media in human rights activism

There’s a lot of debate surrounding the role – and impact – of social media on human rights. It clearly has its uses. First, it can connect groups of people who would normally never meet. It can also connect activists with a potential audience numbering in the billions. Before this kind of technology, activists would be more limited when it came to raising awareness. The accessibility of social media also makes it easier for more people to participate in human rights activism.

On the other hand, social media also has a track record of harming human rights. Take Facebook, for example. Facebook has millions of users in Myanmar and for many people, it’s their main news source. Ultra-nationalist Buddhists exploited this fact and used the platform to spread hatred against Muslims. This created a powder keg that ignited in 2017 when Myanmar’s army cracked down on Rohingya Muslims. Thousands died and more than 700,000 were forced to flee to Bangladesh. UN experts concluded that the hatred posted on Facebook enabled the genocide. Facebook admitted it hadn’t done enough to prevent hate speech. In 2021, dozens of Rohingya refugees in the US and UK sued Facebook. It’s clear that social media is a useful tool for human rights activism, but its threat to human rights must also be recognized.

What happens when human rights activism becomes trendy?

On the surface, the idea that everyone can be an activist isn’t bad. In fact, it empowers people to acknowledge a problem and recognize a responsibility to do something. Collective movements are made of individuals who have taken on the mantle of activism. However, can this “everyone is an activist” belief have a downside? What does it look like when human rights activism suddenly becomes trendy?

Blackout Tuesday and what defines performative activism

Blackout Tuesday began as #theshowmustbepaused, a 2020 campaign started by two Black women in the music industry. With an Instagram post of a black square, they asked the music industry to pause activities and consider how it disenfranchised Black employees. In response, a wave of people started posting black squares with hashtags like #blacklivesmatter. When people searched the hashtag #blacklivesmatter, a wall of black squares popped up, hiding educational content and frustrating seasoned activists. Why did so many people feel compelled to post squares despite their ineffectiveness?

For our purposes, performative activism is activism that fails to consider the effectiveness of an action and only or primarily serves to boost the ego of the would-be activist. It’s undertaken (often subconsciously) to gain social capital, including admiration from others and the internal satisfaction of “being a good person,” rather than affect real change. Once someone benefits from the social capital of, say, posting a black square, they often move on. Defining a “performative” act is complicated. While some people consider all forms of social media activism performative, there are many situations where a post about human rights can get a person arrested or killed. The belief that only certain acts (like protests or donations) are “legitimate” also assumes these can’t ever be performative, which isn’t accurate. We want to be clear that performative activism is less about specific actions and more about intent and impact.

“The Activist” and monetizing activism

The corporate world often engages in performative activism for good PR. With the show “The Activist,” CBS blatantly tried to capitalize off it. In September 2021, CBS announced a reality series featuring six activists working on causes related to health, education, and the environment. However, the show measured success through online engagement, social metrics, and the input of celebrity hosts. The show also pitted the activists against each other for a chance to raise funds for their cause. People were immediately outraged, leading CBS to scrap the show just days after announcing it. This was a clear example of a corporation seeing human rights activism as “trendy” and wanting to monetize it. The fiasco can’t be blamed only on CBS. Global Citizen, an advocacy group that’s faced criticisms for its tactics in the past, produced the show but later issued an apology.

Human rights activism: a long walk

Human rights activism is challenging. Planning and organization factor into an action’s effectiveness, but that doesn’t always lead to success, especially if the activist movement targets entrenched systems and powerful governments prone to authoritarian responses. Countless people have been harassed, tortured, and killed for their activism, including for tweets, like the one posted by Nabeel Rajab, a once-imprisoned human rights activist from Bahrain. This is why we firmly believe social media counts as real activism. Any form of activism that can lead to retaliation is real.

Many activist movements wait years to see progress. Often, so much time passes that the original activists have died. Combined with the life-threatening risks and society’s short attention span, human rights activism is far from glamorous. However, as Black social reformer and abolitionist Frederick Douglas said in 1857, “Power concedes nothing without a demand.”

The post What Is Human Rights Activism? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Every year, the World Economic Forum releases a Global Gender Gap Report. It’s not the only organization that gathers information on gender equality and women’s issues, but it gives us a good idea about the state of things. In 2021, the report concluded that it will take 135.6 years to close the global gender gap. This is an increase by almost 100 years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Studying women’s rights, gender issues, and female leadership is more important than ever, even for those who aren’t working specifically in gender equality. It’s an intersectional issue with far-reaching implications. These ten top-rated courses from Coursera cover topics like international women’s health, human rights, gender analytics, gender-based violence, childbirth, and much more. Courses can be audited for free, though for full access to graded assignments, there’s usually a course fee. If you intend to take multiple courses, it’s worth subscribing to Coursera+.

#1. International Women’s Health and Human Rights (Stanford)
#2. Women in Leadership: Inspiring Positive Change (Case Western Reserve University)
#3. Women in Environmental Biology (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona)
#4. Gender Analytics for Innovation (University of Toronto)
#5. Confronting Gender Based Violence: Global Lessons for Healthcare Workers
#6. Feminism and Social Justice (University of California Santa Cruz)
#7. Diversity and Inclusion in Education (University of Glasglow)
#8. Gender and Sexuality: Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace (University of Pittsburgh)
#9. Childbirth: A Global Perspective (Emory University)
#10.  Breastfeeding: Public Health Perspectives (University of Michigan)

#1. International Women’s Health and Human Rights (Stanford)

This beginner course focuses on women’s health and human rights issues. It examines different stages of life, including issues faced during childhood and adolescence, reproductive health, violence, war, poverty, and aging and end of life. The course was co-created by Consulting Professor Anne Firth Murray (Content Director of the course) and Kevin Hsu (the Design Director).

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand the basics of women’s rights and human rights
• Define refugees and discuss women in war and refugee settings
• Explore issues related to women’s quests to escape poverty, including economic empowerment, sex trafficking, and sex work
• Examine positive interventions related to women’s health and human rights

How you will learn

The course is divided into 10 weeks of study. It takes about 58 hours total to complete. Coursework consists of videos, readings, practice quizzes, and assignments. Assignments include peer-graded thought questions, learning checks, graded quizzes, and two “Engage Your Community” peer-graded assignments. For peer-graded assignments, you must also review three of your peers’ work to receive your grade. It appears that the assignments are accessible even if you’re on the audit track, so you don’t need to pay for a certificate to fully participate. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.9/5 rating.

REGISTER HERE

#2. Women In Leadership: Inspiring Positive Change (Case Western Reserve University)

This course is part 2 of 5 courses in the Inspired Leadership Specialization. Its goal is to inspire and empower men and women to engage in career development and leadership for important causes. Through this course, students will understand more complex issues related to professional women and work. They’ll also increase their self-knowledge of their own vision, values, and skills as leaders, managers, and team members. The challenges, opportunities, trade-offs, and organizational dynamics that women experience in work organizations will also be explored. Dr. Diana Bilimoria, Keybank Professor and Chair of Organizational Behavior, leads the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand the current representation and status of women in senior leadership positions and governments across the world
• Discuss the “gender confidence gap” and what self-confidence really means
• Examine leadership skills for effective negotiation
• Explore purpose-driven career development

How you will learn

This course is divided into 5 weeks of study. With 1-3 hours of work per week, you can expect to complete the course in 12 hours. Coursework includes videos, readings, discussion prompts and forums, and graded assignments. All the graded assignments – including a final peer-graded Praxis paper – are only accessible if you’re paying for the certificate. On the audit track, you can see the assignments, but can’t submit for a grade. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.7/5 rating.

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#3. Women in Environmental Biology (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona)

This beginner course explores questions like how humans relate to each other, what you need to know to understand current environmental problems, and how much of the knowledge and research has been led by women. Students dive into environmental biology concepts, biodiversity, and how gender perspective plays into our understanding of the world, science, and environmental biology. A team of women researchers designed and developed the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand biodiversity and the different types of living things (plants, insects, vertebrates, etc)
• Identify the different ecosystems and how they interact
• Explore the connection between the environment and human health
• Learn about sustainability and eco-feminism

How you will learn

This course is divided into four weeks of study and takes about 10 hours total to complete. Coursework consists of videos, readings, discussion prompts and forums, and four graded quizzes. Each is worth 25% of your grade. It appears that the quizzes are accessible to everyone, even if you aren’t taking the paid certificate track. To pass a quiz, you must score 80% or higher. At the time of writing, the course had a 4.6/5 rating.

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#4. Gender Analytics for Innovation (University of Toronto)

This course is the introductory course in the 5-course Gender Analytics Specialization. Students will build the foundation needed for Gender Analytics by becoming familiar with key terms and concepts, as well as how policies, products, services, and processes can unintentionally lead to gendered outcomes. By the course’s end, students will uncover their own assumptions, evaluate their skills, and begin their own Self Development Plan. Sarah Kaplan (Distinguished Professor & Director, Institute for Gender and the Economy) leads the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Define Gender Analytics and understand why it’s a useful tool
• Understand the Gender Analysis Competency Framework
• Define key terms like gender, sex, gender identity, intersectionality, and more
• Explore how Gender Analytics can lead to inclusive innovation

How you will learn

This course is divided into four weeks of study and takes about eight hours total to complete. Coursework includes videos, readings, practice exercises, and graded assignments. There are four graded assessments, which are only available to students paying for the certificate track. To pass, you’ll need to score an 80% or higher. With the audit track, you can see the assignments, but can’t submit anything. At the time of writing, the course has a 4.8/5 rating.

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#5. Confronting Gender Based Violence: Global Lessons for Healthcare Workers

This course introduces gender-based violence (GBV) from a global perspective. Students will explore the global epidemiology of GBV, health outcomes, seminal research, and clinical best practices for prevention, support, and management. Students will also learn through specific examples and programs from around the world. This is a beginner course, but it’s designed for participants from the healthcare sector. Michele Decker (ScD, MPH, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health) teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand what GBV is and the forms it takes
• Identify ways to address GBV within healthcare, including safety planning, harm reduction, and psychosocial support
• Learn about clinical assessment, medical, and forensic examinations
• Describe the WHO guidelines for GBV response, as well as challenges

How you will learn

The course is divided into four weeks and takes 22 hours total to complete. Coursework consists of readings, videos, discussion prompts and forums, practice quizzes, and graded assignments. Assignments are peer-graded, so you will also need to review three of your peers’ work to receive a grade. The course has an Honors curriculum, which includes separate graded quizzes. To receive grades in either the regular track or the Honors, you’ll need to pay for the certificate. If you’re auditing, you can see the assignments, but can’t submit them. At the time of writing, the course has a 4.8/5 rating.

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#6. Feminism and Social Justice (University of California Santa Cruz)

This course examines three major events in the history of feminism and social justice: the Empire Zinc strike of 1951, the 1971-1972 trial of Angela Davis, and the Me Too movement. Taught by Distinguished Professor Bettina Aptheke, it’s an online adaptation of her long-running course at UC Santa Cruz. Through the lens of these events, students will dive deeply into the definition of “feminism.”

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand Professor Aptheke’s working definition of “feminism”
• Explore the 1951 Empire Zinc strike, including its causes and outcomes
• Study the trial of Angela Davis, including the movement that supported her
• Discuss the #metoo movement and its contributions to feminism and social justice

How you will learn

The course is divided into four weeks and takes about eight hours total to complete. Coursework includes readings, videos, discussion prompts and forums, and graded quizzes. Each quiz is worth 25% of your grade, but grading is only available to students on the paid certificate track. To pass, you must score an 80% or higher. At the time of writing, “Feminism and Social Justice” had a 4.8/5 rating.

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#7. Diversity and Inclusion in Education (University of Glasgow)

Student diversity (in ability, socio-economic background, ethnicity, race, cultural background, etc) is becoming more common in education systems across the globe. This is good news considering the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Goal 4 speaks about ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education, as well as lifelong learning opportunities for everyone. Many challenges remain, however. In this course, students will learn the concepts and assumptions around diversity and difference, how to identify barriers to inclusive education, and how to develop inclusive educational spaces. Ines Alves (Lecturer in Inclusive Education at The University of Glasgow) leads the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand what inclusion is, including the core features of inclusion in education
• Identify the different approaches that analyze education contexts and responses
• Learn about students’ experiences with inclusion and exclusion
• Explore how to develop inclusive education

How you will learn

This intermediate course is divided into four weeks and takes about 18 hours total to complete. Coursework includes readings, videos, discussion prompts and forums, practice quizzes, and graded assignments. The assignments, which are end-of-week quizzes, can be only submitted if you’re taking the paid certificate track. They’re each worth 25% of your grade. To pass, you’ll need to score 80% or higher. At the time of writing, the course has a 4.7/5 rating.

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#8. Gender and Sexuality: Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace (University of Pittsburgh)

Terms like “sex,” “sexuality,” and “gender” have shifted and evolved over the years. This course aims to explore how these concepts impact culture and work. Through interdisciplinary concepts, tools, and methods, students will be introduced to the field of gender, sexuality, women’s studies, and LGBTQIA identities. Julie Beaulieu (Lecturer from the Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies program) and guest lecturer Susan Marine (Assistant Professor and Program Director from Merrimack College) lead the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Define key concepts about gender, sex, sexuality, and identity
• Understand the history and impact of gender theory and sexuality studies
• Learn how to create inclusive workplaces
• Examine the concept of “genderism” and how it impacts work and society

How you will learn

This beginner course is divided into four weeks and takes about 16 hours to complete. Coursework consists of videos, readings, discussion prompts and forums, quizzes, and peer-graded assignments. This means you’ll need to review three of your peers’ assignments before receiving a grade. Grading is limited to students taking the paid certificate track. At the time of writing, the course has a 4.7/5 rating.

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#9. Childbirth: A Global Perspective (Emory University)

In low-income and transitional countries, more than 2.6 million infants are stillborn. Nearly 500,000 women die during childbirth or from pregnancy-related complications. This intermediate course tackles the challenges for maternal and newborn health in the developing world. Students will learn about topics like the epidemiology of maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity; issues facing the global health workforce; community-based interventions to improve health in this area; and the sociocultural dynamics surrounding birth. Lynn Sibley (Professor at the Neil Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing) teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Discuss the global health implications of pregnancy and childbirth in the developing world, including causes of death and signs of progress
• Understand rising maternal mortality rates in the United States
• Describe the importance of well-trained health workers
• Define emergency obsetric care (EmOC)
• Examine the effectiveness of community mobilization for improving maternal and infant health

How you will learn

This course is divided into six weeks and takes about nine hours total to complete. Coursework consists of videos, readings, discussion forums, and graded assignments. There are five quizzes (each worth 15% of your grade) and a final peer-graded critical reflection focusing on a maternal care issue. It appears that assignments are available to all students, including those taking the audit track. At the time of writing, the course has a 4.7/5 rating.

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#10. Breastfeeding: Public Health Perspectives (University of Michigan)

Guided by the Socio-Ecological Model, this course walks students through how each level of the Model (individual, interpersonal, community, organizational, and public policy) impacts breastfeeding in the United States and abroad. Students explore topics like maternal and child short and long-term health benefits, economic and environmental impacts, health professional curricula on breastfeeding education, and breastfeeding practices in the LGBTQ+ community. By the course’s end, students will understand breastfeeding’s impact on public health and feel confident in their ability to identify barriers to successful breastfeeding practices. Olivia S. Anderson (Clinical Assistant Professor of Nutritional Science) teaches the course.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Understand the application of breastfeeding practices to the Socio-Ecological Model
• Explore maternal self-efficacy, family, and community support for breastfeeding
• Describe the role of healthcare providers and employers
• Understand surveillance tools that monitor breastfeeding practices in the US and globally

How you will learn

This course is divided into four weeks and takes about 13 hours total to complete with 2-4 hours of work per week. Coursework consists of videos, readings, discussion prompts and forums, practice quizzes, and graded assignments. There are two peer-graded assignments, which require you to submit your own assignment and review three of your peers’ work. There are also two graded quizzes. All graded materials are only available to students on the paid certificate track.

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The post 10 Top-Rated Courses in Women’s Rights, Gender Issues, and Female Leadership appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Are you interested in knowing more about a human rights topic? Maybe you’re in school and need an idea for a project. People hoping to work (or currently working) in the human rights field also need to know about emerging trends. Even if your career isn’t in human rights, these topics are still relevant. Whether you want to volunteer with an organization, raise awareness about an issue, or simply know more about what’s going on, understanding the state of human rights is important. It’s the first step to defending rights and making the world a better place for everyone. Here are ten human rights topic ideas to explore:

#1. Gender inequality

Gender inequality is an evergreen human rights topic. Because it has such a long history, we have a good idea of what works and what still needs to be done. Issues like the gender pay gap, the distribution of unpaid labor, gender-based violence, gendered job segregation, and women’s empowerment play into the state of inequality. Due to the pandemic, gender parity was set back by about a generation, so how to best respond is also a good topic to explore.

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#2. Climate change

The climate crisis is arguably the most globally urgent human rights topic today. Reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change consistently confirm that human activity drives climate change. It affects rights like health, housing, food, water, education, and more. It disproportionately affects women, children, older people, minorities, migrants, rural workers, and other vulnerable groups.

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#3. Children’s rights

Children often have their human rights violated. This is especially common during times of war, poverty, and other conflicts. The climate crisis represents one of the biggest threats. According to UNICEF, around one billion children are at “extremely high risk.” Kids need adults and organizations committed to speaking up for them and empowering their voices.

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#4. The rights of migrants and refugees

More than 280 million people (about 3.6% of the global population) live outside their country of origin, according to the United Nations. Many of those migrants were forced to leave. The reasons vary significantly, but the human rights of migrants and refugees are often threatened. A report by the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the Mixed Migration Centre at the Danish Refugee Council gives us an example. The report detailed how people crossing routes between East and West Africa and Africa’s Mediterranean coast face human rights abuses from smugglers, human traffickers, and State authorities.

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#5. Weakening democracy

Freedom in the World 2021, a report from Freedom House, found that authoritarian actors are becoming more brazen. 73 countries saw their freedom scores decline, including authoritarian states like Belarus and democracies like the United States and India. Considering that 2020 represented the 15th consecutive year of a decline in global freedom, weakening democracy is a disturbing human rights trend.

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#6. Reproductive rights in Poland

Reproductive rights are important everywhere, but things are becoming dire in Poland. The country has some of the most restrictive abortion laws in Europe thanks to the Law and Justice Party, which came to power in 2015. As things stand, nearly all abortions are effectively banned. This had led to protests like the massive 2020-2021 Women Strike. Groups supporting women’s rights have received bomb and death threats while individual activists are facing what many see as politically-motivated criminal charges. Anyone invested in reproductive rights should watch what’s happening in Poland.

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#7. Disability rights

Due to barriers and discrimination, disabilities make it difficult or impossible for people to participate in the workplace, schools, cultural activities, travel, and so on. As an example, the United States’ confusing Social Security rules can lead to reductions or even a complete loss of benefits for disabled people when they marry. Health insurance can vanish, too. Stigma and ignorance make the world an unjust place, too.

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#8. Surveillance technology

Concerns about surveillance are growing in the wake of Covid-19 tracking and monitoring technology. Ethical issues already existed in the use of crime prevention technologies, but the pandemic gave governments a reason to use the tech for another purpose. Employee monitoring, QR codes, facial recognition, drones, data collection, and more can easily start threatening human rights. Surveillance technology everyone. It’s a human rights topic that deserves attention.

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#9. Transgender rights

Human rights for trans people were never protected that well, but there’s been a global rollback in recent years. 96 countries allow trans people to legally change their gender, but 71 have what ILGA World (a worldwide federation of organizations campaigning for LGBTQ+ rights) calls prohibitive requirements. There’s also been a weakening of discrimination laws, making the world a more dangerous place for trans people.

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#10. Disinformation and misinformation

Propaganda and conspiracy theories have always existed, but technology facilitates the lightning-speed spread of false information. Disinformation is deliberate, but accidentally sharing false information – misinformation – can be just as harmful. False information is a human right issue because it threatens rights like the right to free and fair elections, the right to health, and the right to freedom from discrimination. The global surge of false information regarding Covid-19 is a clear example of the real-world effects. Conspiracy theories about the virus’ origins and false claims about cures and vaccines have led to violence and death.

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The post 10 Human Rights Topic Ideas For You To Explore appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The M.A. in Human Rights in Erlangen-Nuremberg provides an interdisciplinary approach to studying human rights in their legal, political and philosophical dimensions. Students from all over the world learn from experts in academia and practice who draw upon their experience as UN experts, in human rights NGOs and legal practice. In addition, students learn from each others’ experience as the programme targets human rights practitioners with at least one year of (professional or voluntary) experience in the field.

Graduates typically use the skills obtained in this programme to continue working with various NGOs, international organisations or in academia. Others find opportunities in the increased demand for human rights experts within governments and the private sector.

Curriculum

1st Semester: Foundations (30 ECTS credits)

Module 1: Principles and Methodology (10 ECTS credits)

• Lecture: Human Rights Philosophy
• Seminar: Human Rights Methods
• Tutorial: Research and Writing Exercise

Module 2: Politics (10 ECTS credits)

• Lecture: The Politics of Human Rights
• Seminar: Human Rights and the EU

Module 3: Law (10 ECTS credits)

• Lecture: Legal Protection of Human Rights
• Seminar: Leading Cases of Human Rights Law

2nd Semester: Specialised Courses (30 ECTS credits)

Module 4: Interdisciplinary Approach to Non-Discrimination (5 ECTS)
Module 5: Project Work (5 ECTS)
Modules 6–9: Specialised Aspects of Human Rights Protection I—IV (5 ECTS each)

Students choose four specialisation seminars from a list of available seminars. Seminar topics may include: Business and Human Rights; Freedom of Religion or Belief; Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; Social Movements and Human Rights; International Criminal Law; the Internet and Human Rights; Gender and Human Rights; Transitional Justice; Human Rights in Africa; and Human Rights of Refugees. (Please note that not all seminars will be offered every year.)

3rd Semester: Master Thesis (30 ECTS credits)

Admission Requirements

• A university degree based on at least 3.5 years of full-time studies (equivalent to 210 ECTS credits).
  • If your university degree is based on less than 3.5 years of studies, you may be accepted on the basis of a special admission procedure determining additional qualifications.
• At least one year of professional experience in the area of human rights, or one year of professional experience in another field in combination with practical experience in human rights work on a volunteer basis.
• Proof of English language skills in line with level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Decisions on admissions will be taken in March, May and July. To have your application reviewed in March or May, it has to reach us by the last working day of the previous month. The final application deadline is 30 June.

The post M.A. in Human Rights appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Advocates go by many names and work in many fields. They’re found in legal, medical, educational, and social service systems. Depending on their role, advocates can support students, conduct research, develop public policies, represent clients in court, write grants, and much more. If you want a job dedicated to helping others, advocacy is a great career path to consider. Here are 10 careers that make a difference:

Victim advocate

When someone is the victim of a crime, it destabilizes their whole world. Victim advocates step in and provide assistance including but not limited to emotional support, information on legal rights and how the justice system works, help with safety planning, intervention with employers, and access to other resources. They work with a client through all the stages of the criminal justice process and are often needed afterward, as well. Advocates work in government law offices, medical institutions, social service organizations, law enforcement offices, and nonprofits.

Like many advocacy jobs, a victim advocate career can take a few paths. You’ll need at least an associate or a bachelor’s degree in a field like criminal justice, social work, human rights or psychology. There are certificates available, too, which when combined with a degree, can open up more job opportunities. Most people need at least 1-2 years of experience in social work (internships often count) before getting an entry-level victim advocate job.

Shelter advocate

Shelter advocates provide support during a crisis, usually to adult and child survivors of domestic violence. They work at domestic violence shelters and perform many supportive and administrative duties. Responsibilities include caring for the health of the client (emotional, physical, psychological), answering a crisis hotline and providing resources to callers, assisting with safety planning and orders of protection, and completing intakes for clients.

Most shelters require at least a bachelor’s degree in social work or another social services field. Previous experience working with survivors is also essential, either in a former job, as a volunteer, or as an intern. Shelter advocates should also have certain certifications to ensure a client’s safety, such as certification in basic first aid and CPR.

Guidance counselor

A safe, supportive school environment is essential for young people. Guidance counselors are advocates for K-12 students. Academics are a focus, but guidance counselors also work with kids on personal and social development. Responsibilities can include helping students with academics, identifying behavioral issues and recommending solutions, and providing training for school faculty.

Bachelor’s degrees in counseling, social science, or an education-related field are the best fit. Most schools also want their counselors to have a master’s degree in school counseling or a similar area. You’ll also need to complete an internship and pass any required exams for licensure or certification. To expand your job options, additional certifications in areas like mental health, career development and college admissions are a good idea.

Youth worker

Like guidance counselors, youth workers advocate for young people. They work in places like juvenile detention facilities, government offices, community centers, schools, and social service agencies. Workers educate kids on healthy behaviors, skills for employment, and skills for emotional regulation. They also advocate for programs and resources that serve kids. The challenges faced by youth workers vary. Sometimes, the kids they’re working with need minimal support and help, but often, the kids are struggling with more serious concerns like mental illness, addiction, abuse, and more. A youth worker based at a juvenile detention facility will have different responsibilities than a worker at a school.

Youth workers need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like youth work or community studies. After graduation, you’ll most likely need either a postgraduate diploma (in youth work or community work) or a specialist certification. Volunteer work and internships provide necessary experience. Continuing education in the field of social work, behavioral health, and more will benefit a youth worker, too.

Mental health advocate

Those struggling with mental health issues often need help navigating their diagnoses, work, school, and other areas of their life. That’s where advocates come in. Mental health advocates work at a variety of organizations, including schools, hospitals, community clinics, and addiction treatment centers. Responsibilities include providing emotional support to clients, explaining treatment options, and helping them access other resources regarding their diagnosis. Advocates must understand things like health insurance coverage, the legal system, school policies, and whatever else may be relevant to the client. Advocates can also work with organizations destigmatizing mental health and/or lobbying for public policies that improve mental care access.

Organizations that hire mental health advocates ask for different qualifications. There isn’t a specific degree requirement, but if you want a managerial position, you’ll need a degree. Some places ask for a master’s degree in public health, social work, student affairs, or a similar field. For entry-level jobs, 2 or so years of experience in healthcare or social services are usually required.

Community health worker

Community health workers work with social services, nonprofit organizations, clinics, and other institutions to provide health-related care to a community. Trust is very important in this profession as community health workers serve as advocates for the people they serve. The majority of the time, community health workers are hired from within the communities. Responsibilities include providing health education, developing strategies to improve a community’s health, collecting data, and addressing community concerns. They often work alongside health educators.

Community health workers usually have at least a high school diploma, though some areas require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Some areas have certification programs available, too, though a community health worker may not require certification. On-the-job training is the norm, where you’ll cover outreach skills, information on the specific health topics you’re assigned to, and communication skills. Knowledge of multiple languages is also very beneficial.

Social media manager

In the age of the internet, a lot of advocacy happens on social media. That includes drawing attention to urgent issues, raising money for campaigns, and providing educational content. An individual activist can engage in advocacy and support themselves using platforms like Patreon, but many organizations hire people to manage their social media. Responsibilities include developing the organization’s brand, planning and scheduling content, and tracking the social media impact.

Because social media management is a fairly new career, organizations are flexible about what they’re looking for. Many managers have bachelor’s degrees in marketing, business, or related fields, but anyone with a lot of social media experience and a track record of engagement will appeal to employers.

Researcher

Before advocates and advocacy organizations can take action on issues, they need information. Research paints a clearer picture of the issues at hand, allowing organizations to develop the most effective strategies. Researchers are responsible for identifying research goals, identifying sources, gathering and verifying data, and organizing and reporting on their findings. They might also be in charge of analyzing the data in more depth, but not always. Researchers work at just about any organization, including nonprofit advocacy groups, governments, intergovernmental groups, colleges, medical institutions, and more.

Most researchers need a postgraduate degree in the field they want to work in. A master’s degree is usually the standard for entry-level jobs, while you need a doctorate for higher-level positions. Experience is important for this career, so you should work on research projects while a student.

Grant specialist

Many organizations engaged in advocacy depend on public and private grants. Grant specialists are responsible for researching and securing grants. These specialists understand an organization’s mission, what grants an organization is eligible for, and how to convince donors to give them the grants. They might also be responsible for distributing and monitoring the grant money. Colleges, universities, and nonprofit advocacy groups hire grant specialists the most. Specialists may be on staff at an organization or work as a freelancer.

To become a grant specialist, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree. English, communications, and marketing are common majors, but if you want to secure grants for specific causes, a background in that cause may be better. For example, if you want to secure grants for an organization advocating for police reform, a criminal justice degree could be more beneficial. To gain experience, look for internships or volunteer grant writing positions.

Immigration lawyer

Immigration law is complex. In many places, the law is not only confusing but also unfriendly or discriminatory towards immigrants and refugees. The process is very challenging, so people need strong advocates who understand the law. Immigration lawyers represent clients on cases involving student visas, green cards, temporary work visas, asylum, deportation, criminal proceedings, and more. The lawyer’s job is to advocate for their client, ensure they understand what’s going on, and get the best outcome possible. Immigration lawyers work in law large firms, small practices, and networks focused on immigration law.

To become an immigration lawyer, you’ll need a law degree. If possible, you should choose a concentration or specialization in immigration law. This won’t be required to practice law, but it better prepares you for your future career. As you’re completing your education, look for experience wherever you can, whether it’s internships, volunteering, or part-time work. When you take the final exam to become a lawyer, see if there is a certification in immigration law available. This appeals to both clients and prospective employers.

The post 10 Careers in Advocacy That Make a Real Difference  appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Urbanization is on the rise. According to the United Nations Population Fund, more than half of the world’s population lives in towns or cities. By 2030, that number could reach 5 billion people. This is significant because inequality often slices cities into divisions of wealth and poverty. A human rights approach can address this problem and promote cities as spaces of equality, inclusion, and empowerment. When different stakeholders in a city – the local government, civil society, and private sector – come together to adopt human rights principles and laws, a human rights city is born.

The history of human rights cities

The impact of cities on human rights is not new considering how cities can be home to high levels of poverty, inequality, environmental decay, and so on. The organization the People’s Movement for Human Rights Learning (formerly known as the People’s Decade for Human Rights Education and still known by the abbreviation PDHRE) launched the more formal understanding of human rights cities. It was just after the 1993 World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna, Austria, which represented a reinvigorated commitment to implement human rights instruments. The PDHRE’S Human Rights Cities initiative sought to mobilize communities to engage in dialogue and take action on improving life and security for people based on a human rights standard.

The first Human Rights City

Rosario is the biggest city in the central Argentinian province of Sante Fe and the third-most populous city in the country. Tourists are drawn to its centuries-old architecture in the neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco styles, as well as its many museums. Football legend Lionel Messi is from Rosario. In June of 1997, more than 100 people, including groups representing women, children, the academic community, and indigenous people, met with the municipality at City Hall. The executive director of PDHRE was there, too. The groups signed a proclamation committing to turn Rosario into a “human rights sensitive city” that would promote equity, peace, and respect for human rights.

Rosario drew up plans to implement the proclamation. All sectors of society were represented on a Citizen’s Committee, which began analyzing how human rights violations were connected and initiating neighborhood dialogues about a human rights framework. A sub-committee looked at the government’s obligations under international law and solutions to poverty, violence against women and the LGBTQ community, police brutality, poor education, and more. Human rights experts, educators, lawyers, and media members made a supporting volunteer group while trainings were held for and by police, judges, business people, teachers, and others. Specific principles guided the process: transparency, participation, accountability, reciprocity, and a commitment to eliminate poverty.

Other Human Rights Cities

Other areas embraced the concept of human rights cities. In 2000, Saint-Denis in France adopted the European Charter for the Safe Guarding of Human Rights in the City. In 2009, Gwangju in South Korea established a human rights municipality and in 2011, held the 1st World Human Rights Cities Forum. The event is held annually and is an essential gathering for the human rights cities movement. The forum defined human rights cities as “both a local community and a socio-political process in a local context where human rights play a key role as fundamental values and guiding principles.”

There are currently human rights cities in Asia, Africa, Europe, Canada, the United States, and Latin America. Examples include Timbuktu, Mali; Nagpur, India; Nuremberg, Germany; Madrid, Spain; Seattle, United States; and Winnipeg, Canada.

How do cities become “human rights cities?”

There is no standardized process for a city to become a “human rights city.” According to the Human Rights Cities Network, an online platform that promotes the development of human rights cities, there are two processes: an informal one and a formal one. The informal process is when a city promotes human rights at a local government level without officially labeling itself a “human rights city.” These cities embrace concepts like sustainability (“going green”), welcoming refugees, being inclusive to all genders and sexualities, and so on. The success of these cities varies widely; cities often make big promises they don’t keep. Some cities have embraced human rights agendas and implemented norms, but haven’t adopted broader declarations. Chicago, Illinois is one example. The City Council passed a resolution in 2009 supporting the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

For the formal process, a city announces itself as a “Human Rights City” and makes an official commitment. They often adopt the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as their norm of governance and establish a process where the community and municipality cooperate on implementing a human rights approach. Implementing a specific human rights framework for governance sets true human rights cities apart from cities that enjoy a human rights label, but aren’t going to take real action. Every city’s process looks a bit different based on relevant issues, government structure, and so on. The key is that policies and governance center residents’ human rights as described in the UDHR.

The benefits of human rights cities

When taken seriously, human rights cities rely on a framework based on human rights principles like equality, participation, transparency, and accountability. This framework is essential because it guides decision-making on every level, ensuring a systemic shift in how cities conduct business. We can see these principles in the Gwangju Guiding Principles for a Human Rights City (2014):

• Non-discrimination and affirmative action
• Social inclusion and cultural diversity
• Social justice, solidarity, and sustainability
• Effective institutions and policy coordination
• Human rights education and training
• Participatory democracy and accountable governance

Let’s consider that last principle more closely: participatory democracy and accountable governance. Democracy, which is a structure that gives power to the people either directly or through elected representatives, creates the best environment for human rights to flourish. Why? Governance guided by a democratic human rights approach doesn’t allow an elite group to call the shots with no participation or accountability from the rest of the community. All city residents – not just a few – are involved in public policy-making and given the space to voice their interests and ideas. If the government fails in its responsibilities, mechanisms allow people to hold them accountable and prioritize (and empower) the most vulnerable. That’s an essential benefit to human rights cities.

Challenges that face human rights cities

Enforcing a human rights approach is arguably the biggest challenge facing human rights cities. It’s a problem consistent with human rights law and practice in general. While the United Nations represents the closest thing to a global enforcer, its powers are severely limited. The institution can draw attention to human rights progress and violations, but its ability to hold States and abusers accountable has earned the UN much criticism. There’s even less oversight of private actors like multinational corporations. Most enforcement falls to individual States and local governments, which often have scant resources or weak political will for strong human rights policies.

The lack of a standardized definition for human rights cities (an issue that Deklerck Jasmien discusses in their thesis Human Rights Cities: “Walking the Walk” or “Talking the Talk”) also makes enforcement a very tricky prospect. There aren’t clear measurements that determine whether human cities are successful. These limitations make it difficult to hold human rights cities responsible for their actions (or lack of actions) regarding human rights. This isn’t to say all human rights cities are doomed to fail. Some cities are better than others at establishing monitoring procedures and enforcement mechanisms, but again, without a clear definition and recognized standards, human rights cities won’t achieve the level of success supporters hope for.

Are human rights cities worth it?

While the values behind human rights cities aren’t new, the implementation is fairly recent. Is it worth the effort? Are the cities working? Let’s look at the city of Gwangju for a case study. Gwangju, South Korea has a history of oppressive governments. In 1980, government troops attacked university students demonstrating against the martial law government. A group of citizens armed themselves in what became known as the Gwangju Uprising. The event is recognized as a symbol of resistance against authoritarianism. Given the area’s history and track record of democratic movements, making Gwangju a human rights city made sense to many progressive residents. Human rights ordinances were established in 2007 and 2009. In 2010, the government established a human rights department. In 2011, the first World Human Rights Cities Forum took place.

According to a 2019 conference paper, human rights indicators show a steady improvement in the city’s human rights levels. Achievements in human rights education (which includes HRE for all government officials) are considered the city’s biggest wins. Issues remain, especially in housing, public safety, and school violence. The paper also points out problems with collaboration between the government’s different departments.

Gwangju has a blend of successes and limitations. That’s likely true for all human rights cities. Is the idea of the “human rights city” worth attempting? It is if it’s taken seriously. Human rights principles like democracy and accountability are essential to the long-term health and success of cities, which are home to billions. The Sustainable Development Goals can’t be achieved without cities, but cities first need to embrace a human rights approach.

The post What Are Human Rights Cities? appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Seeking asylum means asking another country for protection. This means that the government of the country of origin is unable to ensure the security of the person which may result in exposure to persecution in case of return to the country. Thus, the “manifestly well-founded nature of the asylum application” must be justified, which must therefore be based on an explanation of the reasons for fearing persecution if returned to the country of which one is a national. In order to gather all the required information and take a proper decision on the asylum claim, caseworkers are required to apply the relevant legal instruments during the refugee status determination and the assessment of each case. Although it might seem like a complicated task, it is actually very simple as long as the caseworker follows specific rules. In this article, I am providing a few of the easiest ways to apply international and regional refugee law instruments in refugee status determination procedures. Whether you are an asylum caseworker with UNHCR or with the government, the following tips are useful and applicable.

When in doubt, re-read the refugee definition:

Before applying any legal instrument in the asylum context, it is crucial to be fully aware of the definition of a refugee, first in the 1951 Geneva Convention and then in other regional legal instruments like the OAU Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa or the Cartagena Declaration on Refugees which covers South America.

The 1951 Convention is the key legal instrument that directs the work of an asylum caseworker and especially the work of UNHCR and its partners. It defines a refugee as someone who ““owing to well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself of the protection of that country; or who, not having a nationality and being outside the country of his former habitual residence, is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to return to it.” It is based on this definition that an asylum eligibility officer can take a decision on the refugee claim at hand and thus apply any other relevant legal instrument. People flee their countries for an infinity of reasons, which is also what makes the difference between a refugee or asylum seeker and a migrant. The first and most important element an asylum caseworker needs to focus on is the REASON why the asylum seeker left his/her country of origin. To make it even simpler, the first way to apply refugee law instruments in status determination interviews is to determine the convention grounds, in other words whether or not there is a nexus between the reason why the claimant left his/her country and one of the five grounds for refugee status mentioned in the 1951 Geneva Convention. It is as easy as that!

Now, in some regions of the world like Africa and South America, Refugee Status Determination might not stop at the 1951 definition. These two regions of the world have their own additional conventions on refugees, which are somewhat adapted to the reality of each of these places and to the actual reasons why people leave their countries. For example, the African Union Convention extends the definition of a refugee to a person fleeing “aggression, occupation, foreign domination or events seriously disturbing public order” which includes, therefore, people fleeing general conflicts or civil wars. This means that an asylum caseworker in an African country would have to be aware of the additional definition of the OAU Convention and to apply this legal instrument before taking a final decision, by first trying to establish a convention nexus and, in the absence of such nexus, by determining whether the refugee claim is related to one of the grounds mentioned in the regional legal instrument of the African Union.

Prepare for the interview:

One common misconception that asylum caseworkers might have is that all refugees from a certain nationality for example have the same background, same journey and eventually the same reason why they are seeking asylum. However, this is one of the most dangerous misconception you might have as an Eligibility Officer in the asylum context as it prevents you from fully grasping the gist of the asylum seeker’s story. It also usually prevents you from preparing for the interview, which is a crucial step in conducting a fair interview and in taking the right decision on the case.

Therefore, it is highly important to ALWAYS prepare yourself for any interview and any new applicant. Preparation is the key to understanding the full context and to selecting the relevant legal instruments to use in any case. Let us take for instance the example of an adult male from a Middle Eastern country seeking asylum in any given country other than his own. When preparing for the interview, you would have to search at least basic information on the situation in his country of origin and his area of habitual residence in particular in order to properly assess his nationality (especially in the absence of identity documents) and to ask questions about his whereabouts during the conflict. When checking his registration file, which is the very first file containing basic information and biodata on any applicant, you realize that he has been politically affiliated with a party that you suspect is a perpetrator in the country. This will be extremely important to probe further with the applicant during the interview to understand whether or not he was affiliated in any way possible with war crimes or human rights violations, which would also mean using a different set of laws and conventions related to the Exclusion Acts of the 1951 Refugee Convention to determine whether or not he can still be recognized as a refugee.

On the other hand, if we take the example of an unaccompanied minor from Eritrea who is seeking asylum as he has fled forced military service and human rights violations in his country of origin, we would be definitely looking at different legal instruments to prepare for the interview and be able to take a decision on the claim. Such instruments include the Convention of the Rights of the Child (CRC), Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict (OPAC), Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons Especially Women and Children, Supplementing the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime…

Gather Country of Origin Information (COI)

Country of Origin Information are any data and updates you might research on a specific country, region or even village for your refugee status determination assessment. They include national laws in the country of origin of the asylum seeker. Why would you need national laws from the country of origin? Because part of the job of an asylum caseworker is to determine whether or not the applicant can obtain the protection of his state in his home country in the case of return. State protection is a key component of any given refugee claim. In fact, refugee status is a form of international protection given by a country rather than one’s own in the case of absence of protection from one’s own country of origin, especially when the state is the actual agent of persecution. Therefore, by researching national laws in the country of origin, a caseworker is able to see the full picture and determine whether the asylum seeker is in actual need of international protection. For example, when working with Eritrean nationals, the first thing a caseworker should do is familiarize him/herself with the laws on military service and illegal exit from the country. Knowing that people might face lifetime military service or imprisonment in the case of return to Eritrea is a crucial component of the refugee claim.

As a conclusion, it is always important to base your assessment on the relevant international and regional refugee law instruments. However, expanding your research by using human rights conventions and other human rights instruments to support your case is always a good practice.

The post How to Apply Refugee Law Instruments in Status Determination Interviews appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The rise of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected billions of people around the world. Human rights are critical for response and recovery. To promote, claim and defend human rights, you first need to know them. We have compiled a list of 10 top-rated online courses to learn more about human rights, social justice, UN diplomacy and related issues. You can audit the courses for free or opt-in for a paid verified certificate for an extra fee. If you plan to obtain a verified certificate by multiple universities, all courses below are included in Coursera plus.

Table of Contents

#1 Children’s Human Rights (University of Geneva)
#2 International Migrations: A global issue (Sciences Po)
#3 Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace (Essec Business School)
#4 Social Norms, Social Change (University of Pennsylvania)
#5 International Organizations Management (University of Geneva)
#6 Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World (University of London)
#7 UN Sustainable Development Goals (University of Copenhagen)
#8 Indigenous Canada (University of Alberta)
#9 Feminism and Social Justice (University of California, Santa Cruz)
#10 Internal Displacement, Conflict and Protection (University of London)

#1 Children’s Human Rights (University of Geneva)

Millions of children experience emotional, physical, or sexual violence. Hundreds of thousands flee their homes due to persecution, conflict, and war. During precarious times and humanitarian emergencies child rights are often affected the most. In this course by Geneva University, you will analyze child rights instruments, explore protection mechanisms, and assess child rights interventions. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, the course examines the rights of children from a variety of perspectives. The course is taught by leading experts in the sector of children’s rights from UNIGE’s Center of Child Rights Studies.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Identify human rights violations, and specifically child rights violations
• Outline key elements of the UN Child Rights Convention (CRC)
• Describe the UN monitoring mechanisms with regards to child rights
• Explain strategies to promote, defend and protect child rights

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes roughly 11 hours to complete and is focused primarily on video lectures, readings, and quizzes. To obtain a verified certificate, you must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly. At time of writing the course was rated 4.7 out of 5 stars.

REGISTER HERE

#2 International Migrations: A global issue (Sciences Po)

More people than ever before live in a country they weren’t born in. People move. They always will. In this course offered by one of France’s leading universities, you will learn about international migration from a global perspective, with regional and local case studies. Throughout the course you will explore topics such as migration and development, statelessness, border controls, inclusion and exclusion, discrimination, and freedom of movement. Tackling a key human rights issue, the second week of the course is dedicated specifically to refugees and environmentally displaced persons. The course is taught by Catherine Wihtol de Wenden, Research Director at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and consultant to the Council of Europe (CoE) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Define and use crucial terminology regarding migration, refugees, and displacement
• Outline challenges and complexities related to international migrations
• Describe the right to mobility as a fundamental human right

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes roughly 11 hours to complete and is focused primarily on video lectures, readings, and quizzes. To obtain a verified certificate, you must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly. At time of writing the course was rated 4.7 out of 5 stars.

REGISTER HERE

#3 Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace (Essec Business School)

The competencies to leverage diversity and facilitate inclusion are more than an asset. They are essential for UN entities, NGOs, governments, and companies alike. Entities that value diversity and inclusion attract more talent and achieve better outcomes. Being one of the top valued skills of employers and HR recruiters, this course provides you with easy access to develop knowledge and skills in this area. The course is hosted by Junko Takagi, Chair of Diversity and Inclusion at ESSEC Business School and features a diverse group of speakers from a variety of backgrounds.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Argue for the importance of diversity and inclusion
• Reflect on your own behaviors and reactions when experiencing diversity
• Outline key concepts of diversity and inclusion strategies
• Analyze and assess diversity and inclusion policies

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes roughly 9 hours to complete and features a broad variety of exercise types. Designed for active learning and engagement, learners will take part in peer-assignments, guided discussions, and complete quizzes. To receive a passing grade, you need to complete one evaluation quiz and two peer-graded assignments. The course was rated 4.7 out of five.

REGISTER HERE

#4 Social Norms, Social Change (University of Pennsylvania, UNICEF)

Social Change is the transformation of institutions, values, and behaviors. It’s essential for the realization of human rights and social justice. Offered through a partnership of UNICEF and University of Pennsylvania, this course explores how to eliminate harmful practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, and other forms of gender-based violence. The course consists of two parts, focused on theoretical aspects and practical implementation. The course is taught by Cristina Bicchieri, Professor of Social Thought and Comparative Ethics.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Distinguish between different types of social practises
• Use a variety of tools to understand, measure and influence collective practises
• Create new beneficial norms and eliminate harmful ones
• Outline how issues such as child marriage and gender-based violence can be addressed

How you will learn

Both courses together take roughly 22 hours to complete. The lectures consist primarily of videos and readings. Each chapter of the courses also includes an optional discussion prompt. To receive a passing grade, learners must answer 70% of the quiz questions correctly. Learners rated the course 4.7 out of 5 stars.

REGISTER HERE

#5 International Organizations Management (University of Geneva)

Offered by the University of Geneva, International Organizations Management is a high-level introductory course to the structure, management and operations of the United Nations and other international organizations. Participants of the course will learn about important UN bodies such as the UN Security Council and the UN Secretariat, as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The course is taught by eight instructors and the content is adapted from Geneva Universities’ MBA on International Organizations. The course is a useful starting point for individuals who aim for managerial positions at the United Nations, international NGOs, or social enterprises. Current managers who are interested in transitioning into a career with international organizations might also find the course beneficial.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the theory and practice of international organizations
• Discuss the governance, structure, and mandate of the United Nations
• Assess the different types of leadership styles in the United Nations
• Identify challenges/opportunities involved in international organization partnerships

How you will learn

The entire course takes roughly 18 hours to complete and was rated 4.8 by previous cohorts of learners. To receive a verified certificate, learners must answer 80% of the questions in five quizzes correctly. The course mainly consists of video lecturers with additional reading materials and occasional optional guided discussions.

REGISTER HERE

#6 Global Diplomacy: The United Nations in the World (University of London)

Founded in response to the atrocities of the second world war, the main goal of the United Nations is to foster international peace and security, protect human rights and deliver humanitarian aid. To strengthen these goals the UN engages in diplomatic agreements, negotiations, and conflict resolution. Offered by the University of London, this course introduces the UN system, its bodies, functioning and mandate. Participants of the course will develop practical skills to analyze current UN affairs and explore important UN themes.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the core values of the United Nations
• Differentiate between crucial UN bodies, their functioning and mandate
• Analyze the connection between human rights and the United Nations
• Recognize key UN agencies and their role in providing crises response

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes approximately 12 hours to complete and is taught entirely in English. To receive a passing grade, learners have to submit 5 peer-graded assignments on the UN today, the origin of the UN, the UN security council, human rights and crisis response.

REGISTER HERE

#7 UN Sustainable Development Goals (University of Copenhagen)

The 17 UN SDGs were created in 2015 to achieve a better and more sustainable future for everyone. They address global challenges including hunger, poverty, inequality, climate action, clean energy, and economic growth. University of Copenhagen’s course introduces the history, scope, and development of the UN SDGs. Learners will examine multiple key stakeholders involved in the implementation of the SDGs and discuss climate action (SDG 17) more thoroughly. The course is facilitated by Professor Katherine Richardson, who was a member of the panel appointed by the UN Secretary General to write the 2019 Global Sustainable Development Report. Multiple other experts are featured throughout the learning experience.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Describe the history, development, and scope of specific UN SDGs
• Outline the causes and mechanisms of climate change
• Discuss human inequality as central obstacle to achieving the SDGs
• Explain the role of key stakeholders in the realization of the UN SDGs

How you will learn

Rated 4.8 out of 5 by previous learners, the course takes around 10 hours to complete. To receive a passing grade, learners must complete three quizzes and answer 80% correctly. Each week of the course consists of video lectures, readings, quizzes and discussion prompts.

REGISTER HERE

#8 Indigenous Canada (University of Alberta)

Indigenous peoples play an important role in the protection of the environment, fighting climate change and the realization of the human right to a safe, healthy and sustainable environment. Yet they continue to face exclusion, marginalization, threats and worse. This course offered by the University of Canada explores indigenous worldviews and key issues indigenous peoples are facing in Canada. Participants of the course will learn about land claims, indigenous rights, and legal systems, as well as political conflicts and activism.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the history of indigenous worldviews, arts, and culture
• Describe the goals and principles of indigenous legal systems
• Recognize the consequences of resource extraction of indigenous territories
• Explain the positive impacts of cross-gendered, third and fourth gender identity and two spirited individuals in indigenous societies
• describe the rights pertaining to land that UNDRIP addresses for Indigenous peoples

How you will learn

Learners in previous cohorts rated the course 4.8 out of 5. The course takes approximately 21 hours to finish. To successfully pass the course, learners must answer 70% of the questions in 12 short quizzes correctly. The course primarily consists of videos, readings, quizzes and offers the opportunity to engage in optional discussions every week.

REGISTER HERE

#9 Feminism and Social Justice (University of California, Santa Cruz)

Feminist and social justice activism continue to transform our societies. In this course taught by scholar-activist Bettina Aptheker you will learn about the history and development of feminism and social justice through analyzing essential case studies and key events. Taking an intersectional approach, you will discuss issues related to domestic violence, voting rights, racism, poverty, and prison reform.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Explain the definition of feminism and formulate your own definition
• Discuss the role of protests in feminism and social justice
• Analyze key events and case studies that changed our societies
• Assess the effects of contemporary movements such as the #metoo movement

How you will learn

Feminism and Social Justice takes approximately 8 hours to complete. The course includes videos, readings, quizzes, and optional discussion prompts. To receive a passing grade, learners must complete 4 quizzes and answer 80% of the questions correctly. Previous participants rated the course 4.8 out of 5 stars.

REGISTER HERE

#10 Internal Displacement, Conflict and Protection (University of London)

Internally displaced people (IDPs) are forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or war. Unlike refugees, they stay within the borders of their home countries because they are unable or unwilling to move to another country. In 2020, a record number of 55 million people were internally displaced. In this course by University of London you will learn about internal displacement as a major humanitarian challenge in today’s world and explore strategies to alleviate human suffering caused by internal displacement.

What you will learn (excerpt)

• Outline the scale, causes and effects of internal displacement
• Reflect on IDP protection at global, regional, and national levels
• Describe challenges of IDP protection during conflicts
• Explain the role of advocacy in elevating issues of internal displacement

How you will learn

The self-paced course takes around 27 hours to complete. While the course offers videos, readings, and quizzes, it also includes peer-assignments. To successfully pass the course, learners must complete two quizzes and four peer-graded assignments. The course has been rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by previous learners.

REGISTER HERE

If you plan to obtain a verified certificate by multiple universities, all courses above are included in Coursera plus.

The post 10 Top-Rated Courses on Human Rights, Social Justice and UN Diplomacy  appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The United States are home to some of the most prestigious human rights masters in the world. Students will study the regional and international protection mechanisms and delve into a variety of topics including children’s rights, gender equality, racial injustice and refugee protection. Participants of the classes will study human rights such as freedom of expression, freedom from torture or the right to liberty and security.

After completing a master’s degree in human rights, graduates work as human rights officers, lawyers, campaigners or educators for international organizations including the United Nations, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.

Also explore: International Human Rights Masters

Master of Science in Human Rights

Binghamton University

 United States

 18 months

Full-time, Part-time

On-Campus

Apply by August 1, 2024

The Master of Science in Human Rights at Binghamton University offers human rights approaches to a variety of issues including education, health, violence, children, family, poverty, incarceration, immigration, and the political economy. ...

Read more

MA in Human Rights and the Arts

Bard College

 United States

 24 months

Full-time

On-Campus

Apply by January 6, 2024

Our MA Program in Human Rights & the Arts offers a graduate-level interdisciplinary curricular experience that takes stock of the growing encounter between human rights and the arts as fields of both academic knowledge and professional work....

Read more

Master’s in Human Rights Education

University of San Francisco

 United States

 24 months

Full-time, Part-time

On-Campus

Apply by March 1, 2024

Master’s in Human Rights Education is a program that offers a rigorous human rights education in the community and classroom while being grounded in positive action and critical thinking. It aims to prepare graduates to teach about and tackle issues related of race, class, gender, religion, sexual identity, and nation....

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Master of Human Rights

University of Minnesota

 United States

 24 months

Full-time

On-Campus

Apply by September 1, 2024

The Master of Human Rights offered by the University of Minnesota is an interdisciplinary program supported by the Humphrey School of Public Affairs and the College of Liberal Arts. It prepares students to tackle global human rights challenges through policy analysis, research, and advocacy....

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Master of Arts in International Human Rights

University of Denver

 United States

 24 months

Full-time, Part-time

On-Campus

Apply by December 15, 2024

The MA in International Human Rights provided by the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver teaches students to explore issues affecting human dignity while critically assessing institutions, norms, and processes designed to promote and protect human rights. This interdisciplinary program aims to connect human rights to secu...

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Master of Arts in Human Rights

Gratz College

 United States

 18 months

Part-time

Online

Apply by December 15, 2024

The Gratz College M.A. in Human Rights prepares students for careers in NGOs and nonprofits, advocacy, disaster relief, government relations, public health, civil rights, and diplomacy. It is designed for those committed to social justice and the equality of all people, which is especially urgent in today’s troubled world. This online degree gives...

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MA Human Rights Studies

Columbia University

 United States

 12 months

Full-time, Part-time

On-Campus

Apply by March 10, 2024

The Human Rights MA offered by the Columbia University was established in 1998 by the Liberal Studies MA program was transferred to the Institute for the Study of Human Rights (ISHR) in 2011. This master program, held at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, has an interdisciplinary nature and focuses on the academic study of human rights practice and th...

Read more

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The primary goal for humanitarian aid? Save lives and help those who are suffering. Unlike development aid, humanitarian aid tends to focus on immediate needs rather than addressing underlying, more systemic issues. Organizations like the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the World Health Organization, governments, and countless national and international nonprofits help coordinate aid efforts. What kind of aid are they providing? Here are ten examples:

Disaster relief

Natural disasters are a major cause of the world’s death and suffering. According to the UN Report “Human Cost of Disasters,” there’s been a significant increase in the number of recorded disaster events in the last 20 years compared to the two decades before that. Billions of people have been affected. 2020 included a record-breaking Atlantic hurricane season, earthquakes, flash floods, wildfires, and more. Humanitarian aid in the face of this type of crisis includes shelter, meals, clean water, and more. The Red Cross responds to many disasters around the world.

Shelter

Speaking of shelter, it’s one of the most important aspects of humanitarian aid. It’s often needed when helping people displaced by things like disasters, war, or other conflicts. The UN Refugee Agency is a major distributor of shelters such as tents and plastic sheeting, though their official stance is that they want to avoid camps unless necessary. When creating camps, they have to consider how to keep the environment safe from fires and disease. The safety of women and girls is a high priority, as well. Providing shelter can also include aid like paying for hotel rooms. During the Covid-19 pandemic in the US, 70% of Continuums of Care (local governing bodies that coordinate homelessness services) used hotels at some point in a 5-month span.

Food

Food insecurity is a global issue. Issues like displacement, climate change, and conflict contribute to the problem. In fact, people from conflict-affected countries are three times more likely to suffer from undernourishment. The World Food Programme is the leading humanitarian organization focused on food. In 2020, they provided aid to over 115 million in 84 countries. Each year, they distribute more than 15 billion rations.

Agricultural crisis

Problems with agriculture are closely linked to food insecurity, though aid looks different when it’s focused on the farmers themselves. Famines are a big issue, as well as disruptions due to conflict and diseases that affect crops. Using a 2010 FAO project in Sri Lanka as an example, humanitarian aid for farmers can include vegetable seed kits, home garden kits, barbed wire, water pumps, and livestock.

Water

It doesn’t take people long to get sick or die due to a lack of clean water. According to a 2019 WHO report, a staggering 1 in 3 people can’t access safe water. Women are the most affected by water crises. They’re usually the ones responsible for collecting water for the community, which ends up taking up all their time. This keeps women (and their families) caught in the cycle of poverty. Humanitarian aid includes funds for water systems, filters, and more. This is an example of how meeting an immediate need – safe water – can create better conditions for long-term improvements.

Sanitation

Access to safe water and sanitation are closely linked. WASH – which stands for “water, sanitation, and hygiene” is an essential public health issue in the Sustainable Development Goals. According to the WHO report mentioned above, 2 billion people don’t have access to basic sanitation. ⅓ live in the Least Developed Countries and most are from rural areas. This matters because inadequate sanitation is linked to diseases like intestinal worms and diarrhoeal deaths. Good sanitation systems, toilets, and hygiene education are a few examples of sanitation-focused humanitarian aid.

Medical care

Medical care includes a wide variety of activities, such as pledging funds, materials, and personnel. The Covid-19 pandemic triggered a wave of promises and programs, such as a $2 billion coordinated response plan from the UN. The success of humanitarian aid in the face of such a severe emergency remains to be seen. Past examples of medical aid include the Guinea worm eradication campaign, which reduced incidences of the disease from 3.5 million in 1986 to 27 in 2020.

Children’s aid

In times of trouble, children are extremely vulnerable. Their human rights are often ignored or outright violated. Because of their lack of influence and power, they need adults to speak up for them. In Yemen, which has been suffering one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises for years, almost 2.3 million children younger than 5 are at risk of acute malnutrition. Organizations like UNICEF, the largest children’s aid organization, focus on providing children with shelter, meals, medicine, and more.

Refugee care

Refugees are vulnerable to just about every humanitarian issue on this list, making them a high priority for aid organizations. The International Rescue Committee has been responding to crises for 80 years. They assist in healthcare, education, and economic well-being. Because women and girls are especially vulnerable, many programs focus on them.

Education

Aid funding has not historically prioritized education. However, the disruption of education or the lack of education access is just as serious as other issues. While education clearly has benefits in the long term, schools are also places where children can have short-term needs met in the form of safe shelter, food, sanitation, and more. Schools often serve as community spaces, too.

The post 10 Examples of Humanitarian Aid appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The MA Human Rights Law offered by the SOAS University of London provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with relevant issues in this discipline. This MA program was designed to provide a specialization in a continually evolving area of law that deals with several issues relate to major present debates and developments. The program is taught by expert staff experienced in working and teaching in the field, at posts such as the UN and civil society organizations.

With a variety of modules that focus on core subjects in the field of human rights law, the program considers a critical perspective into the theory and practice in this field, as well as other related fields, particularly the ones focusing on the global South. The core modules include international human rights law, international criminal law, international refugee and migration law, international humanitarian law, and justice, reconciliation and reconstruction in post conflict societies. Students also have an option to choose a singular module on a specific legal approach and these include human rights and Islamic law, law, rights and social change, human rights and peacebuilding, the Israeli-Palestinian case, Darfur, anatomy of a human rights emergency, and human rights of women.

SOAS Human Rights Law graduates leave the program as civic minded and critically engaged individuals who can contribute to the needs of their communities and societies in an effective way. Besides building careers within the field, graduates usually use this master program as a strong basis towards a PhD leading to an academic career.

Admission requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a subject appropriate to the program
• Relevant work experience
• English language proficiency certificate
• Supporting statement
• References

The post MA Human Rights Law appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

The MSc in Human Rights offered by the London School of Economics and Political Sciences is a multidisciplinary master program that connects theory and practice and teaches students about important philosophical, legal, and sociological issues linked to human rights.

This program engages students in an academically rigorous way with some of the most prominent issues at the present field of human rights. The core courses introduce students to structures of human rights and engage students into discussions about the role of human rights. The thematic topics that are covered during the compulsory courses include human rights institutions, culture and human rights, genocide, humanitarian intervention, gender and sexuality and human rights, race and apartheid, and transitional justice.

This program serves as a strong foundation for many academic and non-academic careers. Upon graduating, students usually find employment in the fields of law, international law, advocacy, foreign policy, the humanitarian sector, development, civil liberties, welfare, as well as in specialized agencies dealing with rights of marginalized groups such as refugees, women, or victims of torture.

Admission requirements

• Upper second-class honors (2:1) degree or equivalent in law or any social science subject, or a degree in another discipline with demonstrable interest in human rights or relevant experience as a practitioner
• Additional entry requirements apply to international students

The post MSc Human Rights appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Front Line Defenders

Front Line Defenders was established in 2001 in Dublin with the goal of protecting human rights defenders at risk and those who work for any or all of the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Their HQ is based in Dublin, but they also have office in Belgium, the Americas, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

They provide grants to strengthen and protect human rights defenders to be able to continue their work. For example, these grants cover legal fees for those who are judicially harassed, medical fees for those who have been attacked, and family assistance for imprisoned human rights defenders. The part of their work is also campaigning and lobbying at the international level for the protection of human rights defenders.

Amnesty International Ireland

Amnesty International Ireland is the Irish branch of Amnesty International, an international human rights organization fighting against human rights violations worldwide. The Irish branch of Amnesty International has around 20.000 supporters campaigning on issues such as refugee rights, ending torture and reproductive rights.

Amnesty International Ireland investigates and exposes facts about human rights violations and campaigns towards governments to ensure they respect international law. They mobilize supporters to campaign for change and supports people in claiming their rights through training and education.

Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission national human rights and equality institution. They were established with a purpose to promote and protect human rights and equality in Ireland, and build a culture of respect for human rights in the country.

One of the most significant aspects of their work is providing legal assistance to help people defend their rights, as well as contributing to legal cases that deal with human rights violations. They also work at the policy level to review the effectiveness of human rights and equality laws and cooperate with civil society to monitor and report on human rights and equality on the ground.

FLAC

FLAC is a human rights organization that was established to promote equal access to justice for all. Their vision is ‘’ of a society where everyone can access fair and accountable mechanisms to vindicate their rights’’.

FLAC offers free and confidential legal information and advice to people and helps them access their legal rights. They also carry out research and analysis of human rights law to achieve greater equality, especially for groups who are more marginalized. Last, but certainly not the least, FLAC advocates to bring about the legal change in areas in which laws are discriminatory and unfair.

Nasc

Established as a human rights NGO, Nasc’s mission is to empower migrant communities to realize and fulfil their rights. They work closely with migrants and refugees to advocate for a change within Ireland’s protection and immigration systems.

Nasc’s name derives from the Irish word ‘’link’’. They link migrants and refugees to their right. Their goal is ‘’to realize the rights of all migrants and refugees within Irish society’’, as well as to ensure fairness, access to justice and the protection of human rights.

Afri

A Dublin based NGO, Afri works to promote human rights, peace, justice and environmentalism, with a special focus on the Global South and injustices caused by conflict. Their mission is to influence policy and practice both in Ireland and internationally on human right, global justice, peace, and sustainability issues.

Afri organizes and conducts campaigns and events on issues such as climate change, poverty, war and militarization, democracy, food sovereignty, corporate accountability and natural resources. They also hold workshops and talks attended by grassroots activists, and conduct educational campaigns in schools, colleges and communities on all the issues mentioned above.

Doras

 Doras is NGO working to promote the rights of migrants in Ireland. Their vision for Ireland is ‘’a society where equality and respect for the human rights of migrants are social norms’’.

Through promoting and upholding the human rights of migrants, Doras advocates and campaigns at all levels for change in policy and legislation. They also provide legal aid on immigration and asylum issues, direct provision, family reunification, and employment rights to over 1.200 migrants annually. Last, but not least, they work with external stakeholders ‘’to ensure that all those who now call Ireland their home feel valued, recognized and appreciated’’.

Migrants Rights Centre Ireland

Migrants Rights Centre Ireland is a national organization working with migrants and their families in the country to promote empowerment, equality and justice.

One of the core areas of their work is providing support to migrants in minimum wage and unregulated work since these populations are at a higher risk of becoming exploited and poor. They also provide support to victims of trafficking for labor exploitation, as well as to undocumented, unemployed or underemployed migrants. To facilitate their activities, the Migrants Centre Ireland provides access to rights, information, conducts case work, and works with migrants in campaigning.

Irish Refugee Council

Irish Refugee Council is an working with a mission to ‘’ promote and protect the rights of people seeking protection and those recognized as refugees in Ireland.’’

They work with people who fled their countries due to war or conflict and it is no longer safe for them to return. They also work with people who experienced torture, death threats, and other forms of violence because of their religious belief, political stance, sexual identity, for protesting, or for simply being a female or a member of an ethnic minority.

Peace Bridges International Ireland

Peace Bridges International has been internationally promoting non-violent approaches to peacebuilding and protecting human rights defenders since 1981.

The Irish branch of Peace Bridges International was founded in 2014 as a part of country groups across the world, who work to support and strengthen human rights defenders through implementation of various projects. They promote non-violent approaches to conflict resolution and build a culture of human rights that will, in the future, lead to a more just and peaceful world.

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Master’s in Human Rights Education is a program that offers a rigorous human rights education in the community and classroom while being grounded in positive action and critical thinking. It aims to prepare graduates to teach about and tackle issues related of race, class, gender, religion, sexual identity, and nation.

The program is designed for teachers and educators operating in non-formal settings like community organizations. During the courses, students learn about the right to education, curriculum efforts towards human rights and social justice, and schooling with dignity and rights. Students also engage in critical thinking and debate about both local and global contexts, with a special focus on globalization, social movements, migration, and transnationalism. As a part of their final capstone project, students design a program, create a curriculum, and write a project that summarizes their experience and knowledge. The essential element of this program is transformation that is done through education which strengthens people to make changes not only in their own live, but in the lives of their families, communities, and institutions. Graduates of this program usually find an employment in international or local non-governmental organizations. Many work with immigrants or refugees in the US in some capacity, or in policy or curriculum development or program design for global education programs.

Admission requirements

• Completed online application with non-refundable $55 application fee.
• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Evidence of background of academic preparation and/or professional experience that demonstrates ability to pursue graduate level programs.
• Two letters of recommendation, noting suitability for graduate work.
• CV
• A Statement of Intent

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Designed to prepare students for successful and challenging careers in international organizations, non-governmental organizations, legal practice, or public administration, this master program provides an in-depth understanding and knowledge of international and human rights law. The curriculum of the program is structured around courses dealing with the structure of the legal procedures governing states and organizations, as well the protection of the individual rights in a complex international environment.

The courses and seminars are offered to small and medium size groups consisted of 15 to 30 students, and designed to offer a broad range of teaching methods, as well as to provide an encouraging and supportive learning environment through close student-teacher interaction. Students are offered a chance to define and profile themselves in a variety of specialization areas such as international human rights law, migration and refugee law, international law and conflicts, and general international law. Upon completion of the program, students are equipped with expert knowledge and advanced research skills. Most often graduates of this master program find employment and build their careers in international organizations, public institution, international and national non-governmental organizations, legal institutions, academia, as well as in some area of the private sector.

Admission requirements

• A nationally recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent to at least 180 ECTS or to three years of full-time study from an accredited institution of higher education
• A proof of proficiency in English
• An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline related to international law and human rights

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The MA program in Social Justice and Human Rights focuses on understanding social injustices and human rights abuses, exploring key topics such as labor, migration, education, and the environment. The program provides a theoretical and methodological foundation for comprehending these issues within their legal, political, historical, and cultural contexts. Students develop an understanding of how these issues are defined by multiple and intersecting forms of inequality and social identity, including gender, race, ethnicity, class, sexuality, and nationality.

The program is designed for those interested in working towards ethical responses to social injustice and human rights abuses. Students may choose to focus on specific issues in international or domestic contexts, such as refugee resettlement, immigration and citizenship, human trafficking, racialized violence, and international human rights law and organizations. The program offers rigorous courses taught by experienced faculty from various disciplines, and many students complete internships domestically or internationally to gain hands-on experience and deepen their understanding of the complexities of these issues.

Students can choose to complete a traditional Master of Arts thesis, an applied project, or a capstone course as their culminating experience. Through the program, students gain practical skills in research and grant writing, and deeper insight into the theory and practice of social justice, human rights, and humanitarian efforts.

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The LLM (which is an abbreviation of Legum Magister or Masters of Laws) is a postgraduate law degree. Students and professionals often earn an LLM to specialize in a specific field, like human rights. With this degree, a person can show law firms they have advanced legal training and can work in many legal environments. With a specialization in human rights, a lawyer can work on social justice issues, challenge structures that aren’t enforcing human rights law, and protect the rights of the vulnerable. Here are 5 LLM human rights programs you can obtain online:

LLM International Human Rights Law

The University of Law

This postgraduate online degree focuses on building a student’s in-depth knowledge of the subject and how international law protects human rights. It covers topics like the general principles of international human rights law, the connection between humanitarian and human rights law, and the challenges and future of international and domestic human rights. Full-time, the program takes 12 months. Part-time takes 21 months. Modules are assessed by a 3-hour written exam (which must be taken at one of the UK campuses or approved overseas center) or a written coursework assignment. A 15,000-word thesis is also required.

To apply, students need a UK undergraduate degree (any subject) at 2:2 or above, or an equivalent qualification. Proven English proficiency is needed, as well.

LLM with a specialization in human rights

University of London

The University of London is known for its research and teaching on human rights law. The LLM program consists of 16 modules from 4 courses. Each module takes about 115 hours. To earn the human rights specialization, you need to complete 12 modules (three complete courses) from that specialization. The specialization prepares students to work with government, inter-government, and corporate organizations on issues like human rights, immigration, women’s rights, and more.

The program can be completed within 1-5 years depending on your schedule. Courses include the International Rights of the Child; Medical Law and Ethics; The European Convention on Human Rights; and the United Nations Protections of Human Rights. Each module ends with a written exam. There are no oral exams or dissertations required. To apply, you must have a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) where 50% of the units taken were law-related. You can also be admitted with an advanced law degree or admission into legal practice by a governing organization. English proficiency is required.

LLM in Human Rights and Humanitarian Law

Aberystwyth University

This distance learning degree has students examine traditional human rights and humanitarian law subjects and new issues, like the regulation of international society. Studies cover the local, national, and international complexities. The program balances an academic approach with practical concerns. Students gain expertise in human rights with this mixture of practical and theoretical studies, as well as exposure to a wide range of human rights and humanitarian law subjects. Modules are subject to change but include topics like Contemporary Issues In Food Policy and Law, Law and Gender, and International Criminal Law. Assessment involves coursework essays (120 credits) and a 60-credit dissertation on a chosen topic.

To apply, students must have a 2:2 Bachelors (Honours) or an equivalent in law or related social science degree. English proficiency is also required (IELTS 6.5 with a minimum 5.5 in each component or an equivalent). The program takes between 2-5 years.

LLM in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law

American University Washington College of Law

In 2015, this LLM became the first hybrid program of its kind with virtual and on-residence courses in Washington, D.C. You also have the option to study in-residence and online only. Students learn practical knowledge from experts in the field, including judges and presidents from international and regional courts, UN special rapporteurs, members of UN human rights committees, and civil society leaders. Virtual courses consist of 2-hour live classes with discussions. Course examples include Advanced Human Rights and Asylum and Refugee Law. To complete the LLM, students need 24 credit hours: 12 in specialized courses, 6 externship credits, and 6 independent studies credits.

To apply, students must have a JD from a US law school accredited by the American Bar Association or a first degree in law from an equivalent foreign law school. International applicants must meet an English Language Proficiency Requirement, as well.

LLM in Transnational Crime and Justice

United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute

This LLM organized by UNICRI and the University for Peace teaches professionals and university graduates about international law, transnational crimes and transitional justice, humanitarian law, and international human rights law. Students will gain expertise in the theoretical and practical aspects of the subjects; unique insights into the UN and other organizations; and an understanding of how international criminal tribunals and courts work. There’s a distance learning phase and a residential phase at the UN Campus in Turin, Italy. During the Graduation Project at the end of the residential phase, students take part in a Moot Court simulation.

To apply, students must have at least a 3-year university degree in law, political science, social sciences, international relations, criminology, or a relevant academic subject. Full proficiency in English is required.

Explore more human rights masters here.

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Living in the Netherlands or interested in working there? The Netherlands is a good place to consider if you work in the human rights field or want to bring your skill set and experience into the human rights sector. Many NGOs work on international issues (such as poverty, gender equality, reproductive rights, and democracy) as well as local ones. Here are 10 organizations offering NGO jobs in the Netherlands:

Amnesty International

Amnesty International is a global advocacy organization with a presence in the Netherlands. Like all branches of this large organization, Amnesty International Netherlands focuses on a variety of issues, such as democracy, the rise of automation and surveillance in policing, free speech, and more. Current campaigns for AI include Qatar, Poland, and “Let’s Talk about YES,” a campaign promoting dialogue about sex and consent in the Netherlands, especially among young people. Jobs can be found on the “Vacancies” page on the website.

Global Human Rights Defence

Global Human Rights Defence (GHRD) is an international NGO based in The Hague in the Netherlands. It works to promote and protect all human rights but has a special focus on areas where human rights violations are at their worst. GHRD’s tasks include human rights reporting, humanitarian aid for victims of human rights abuse, and human rights education in Europe, the Netherlands, and South Asia. GHRD also prioritizes socio-economic and human rights empowerment through legal assistance, community-building, education, and skill/vocational training.

Oxfam Novib

Oxfam Novib is part of Oxfam International, which is a collection of 20 development organizations united to fight against poverty. The organization tackles poverty by focusing on several areas, such as food security, emergency aid, inequality, and education. Oxfam Novib can be found working in many countries with more than 10 million partners, such as teachers, farmers, donors, fishermen, and others.

Hivos People Unlimited

This international cooperation organization is based in The Hague. It provides support to civil society organizations in Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa. For over 50 years, Hivos has worked for a more just and sustainable world using five strategies: developing ideas with creative leaders; building coalitions; influencing policy and implementation; changing public opinion; and encouraging local ownership.

Wilde Ganzen Foundation

Founded in 1957, this NGO’s goal is to reduce poverty and inequality using community-driven initiatives. The organization supports community organizations in the Global South and their Dutch fundraising partners. Each year, the foundation supports hundreds of small-scale philanthropic initiatives, especially those that help children, people with disabilities, and women and girls. Wilde Ganzen also focuses on projects that are socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable.

Rutgers

For more than 50 years, Rutgers has served as the Netherlands Centre on Sexuality. The organization helps young people access quality sexual education, contraception, and safe abortions. Rutgers also works to prevent sexual and gender-based violence. Rutgers partners with other organizations internationally and participates in research, advocacy, and promoting public support.

UNICEF

UNICEF – which is a UN agency – is the world’s largest children’s rights organization. It focuses on meeting a child’s basic needs, including food, safety, and education. The organization also advocates for children’s rights and advises governments, companies, and other world leaders. The Netherlands Committee UNICEF Foundation is independent but associated with UNICEF.

Stichting Vluchteling (Netherlands Refugee Foundation)

This aid organization focuses on emergency aid to refugees and displaced persons. During emergencies, the foundation provides food, clean water, shelter, sanitation, and medical care. For longer-term problems, the foundation also supports vocational training and education. While based in the Netherlands, it works in many countries with international partners.

Netherlands Institute for Human Rights

This monitoring body protects and promotes human rights and human rights awareness in the Netherlands. Its core functions include publishing research and recommendations; reporting to international and regional human rights mechanisms; handling complaints; advising the government and other public entities; and supporting human rights education and training. While all national human rights institutions (NHRIs) are state-mandated, they operate independently. The Netherlands Institute monitors the European part of the Netherlands as well as Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba.

The Netherlands Helsinki Committee

This NGO promotes human rights and strengthens democracy and the rule of law in Europe and the Central Asian countries participating in the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The committee’s work focuses on strengthening legal protections, improving public policies that affect vulnerable groups, and supporting human rights NGOs. The committee is active in several civil society human rights networks in Europe. Most of the work centers on the OSCE region.

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Interested in working for an NGO in London? While competitive, working in London can be a very rewarding experience that provides great networking opportunities. In this guide, let’s explore why London is a great location, what organizations are offering jobs, and how to land an NGO job in the city.

Why work for an NGO in London?

For years, many leading NGOs in human rights and humanitarian aid have established headquarters in London. Save the Children, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, Anti-Slavery International, and Oxfam are just a few. With so many major organizations in the city, a person can gain valuable NGO experience, build network relationships, and access more career opportunities. London is also one of the most multicultural cities in Europe with more than 300 languages represented. Employees for NGOs can expect a diverse working and living environment.

What human rights issues do NGOs in London focus on?

London-based NGOs work on local and international human rights concerns. Locally, a big change came in the form of the UK leaving the European Union on January 31, 2020. That, combined with the COVID-19 pandemic, has affected human rights. Already vulnerable people bore the brunt of challenges related to health, housing, domestic violence, and discrimination. According to Amnesty International’s 2020 breakdown on the UK, the intersection of racial injustice, the effects of the pandemic, and police powers was also an issue. NGO jobs focusing on the London/UK area will no doubt prioritize these specific issues while internationally-focused ones continue human rights work on a global scale.

Which organizations offer NGO jobs in London?

There are many NGOs offering work in London. Here’s are some of the most prominent:

Amnesty International

Amnesty International has a country office and its main headquarters in London, making this organization a great choice if you’re based in London or hoping to move there. This international NGO first focused on abolishing the death penalty and torture, but has since expanded its priority issues to include deadly force and police accountability; gender, sexuality, and identity; climate justice; and technology. AI uses a “three-pronged approach” focusing on research, mobilization of activists and members, and advocacy.

Save the Children UK

Founded in 1919 to help children in the aftermath of the war, Save the Children UK is one of the world’s leading independent organizations for children. Not to be confused with the United States Save the Children nonprofit, the Save the Children Fund (or Save the Children UK) has its international headquarters in London. The umbrella organization has 29 national member organizations working in 122 countries. Activities are coordinated with a central body – Save the Children International – which also oversees humanitarian aid. The organization focuses on food, medicine, and medical care.

Médecins Sans Frontières UK

Also known as Doctors Without Borders, this organization has an office in London. MSF focuses on crisis response, including running various healthcare projects (short-term and long-term), responding to climate emergencies, running emergency logistics, and more. The organization works in more than 70 countries.

Other NGOs in London

The Equal Rights Trust – fights discrimination and promotes equality

Human Rights Watch – research and advocacy on human rights

ActionAid UK – focuses on women and girls in poverty

Anti-Slavery International – the world’s oldest international human rights organization that focuses on ending slavery and related human rights violations

The Refugee Council – provides support for refugees and asylum seekers in the UK

How to get an NGO job in London

Jobs in London will require fluency in written and speaking English. Depending on the job, knowledge of another language will be an asset. For NGO work specifically, relevant education and experience are a must. If you aren’t local to London, your chances of getting a good job are better if you have a master’s degree. NGOs prefer candidates with degrees in human rights, international development, economics, history, political science, or other relevant fields. Organizations also look for candidates with experience, so be sure to describe any applicable volunteer work, internships, or jobs you’ve had before.

Given the city’s reputation as a locale for prominent NGOs, expect competition. Through the application and interview process, make it clear why you and this organization are the best fit. A common mistake people make is being too vague. It’s one thing to want to work in the NGO field, but why is this organization the right one for you and why should they hire you? Proving you’ve done your research on the organization’s mission and goals increases your chances of getting the job.

Not from the United Kingdom? To work in the UK, third-country nationals need a visa. Visas come with different conditions, i.e. a highly-skilled migrant needs a Tier 2 visa, which requires a certificate of sponsorship from an employer. Because the UK left the EU, EU/EFTA residents are now classed as third-country nationals. You also need to apply for a biometric residence permit if you’re staying in the UK longer than six months. The visa process can be complicated (there’s more info on UK work visas here), but remember: you need to have the job before applying for any visas and permits.

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Most human rights careers have one thing in common: they depend on research. That means human rights researchers serve an essential role in the field, providing the data and analysis that can make or break an organization’s ability to reach its goals. Interested in this important work? Here’s a quick guide that answers the questions you might have about human rights research jobs.

Why is human rights research important?

Without accurate research, human rights work would be ineffective. No one would know where human rights violations are occurring, who is most affected, who is responsible, or what solutions are needed to preserve human rights. The stakes are high. If an organization’s research methodology is flawed, it can only be so successful. Poor research can lead to the waste of resources, the spread of misinformation, damaged reputations – and most significantly – continued human rights violations. Good research, on the other hand, provides organizations with much-needed clarity on the state of human rights, making a successful plan of action possible.

What do human rights researchers do?

Human rights research isn’t radically different from research in any other field. Researchers work to establish facts and find evidence for claims. That includes conducting interviews, tracking and monitoring news stories, studying satellite images and other photographic evidence, and using social media forensics. Many human researchers work from an office but often travel to talk to survivors or witnesses of human rights abuse.

Researchers also compile all the data they’ve collected into a comprehensive form. Most human rights organizations publish many reports a year on different topics, as well as an annual report summarizing their overall findings. These reports are distributed through the human rights world, but they’re also important for raising public awareness. The writing needs to be accessible.

Where do human rights researchers work?

Many nonprofit human rights organizations conduct their own research, so they need to hire researchers. Major research and advocacy groups include Amnesty International, Anti-Slavery International, and Refugees International. The United Nations employs researchers, as well, as do human rights institutes, academic entities, and governments. Any organization that puts out reports throughout the year depends on researchers. Human rights lawyers also often need help with research.  Examples of organizations regularly recruiting human rights researchers are:

• Human Rights Watch
• The United Nations
• Geneva Academy (Academy for International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights)
• Amnesty International
• Physicians for Human Rights (PHR)
• Refugees International
• Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
• The European Agency for Fundamental Rights
• Anti-Slavery International

How do you become a human rights researcher?

If human rights research interests you, here’s what you should know about the career:

Education

The first consideration is your educational background. Most human rights researchers have at least a bachelor’s degree, but you’ll find researcher jobs that ask for a master’s degree or even a doctoral degree, depending on the organization and what responsibilities the researchers have. As for what subject you should major in, jobs will typically have a variety of preferences, which is common for most human rights careers. Applicable degrees include political science, law, criminal justice, history, psychology, sociology, and of course, human rights. Researchers typically have an area they specialize in, so consider what you’re most passionate about and focus on it.

Work experience

Many research jobs require or prefer candidates with past work experience. For those searching for their first jobs after graduation, internships usually count. While you’re in school, take advantage of internship programs, especially if you aren’t required to complete one to graduate and feel tempted to skip that part. Past volunteer work can also be very helpful when you’re searching for jobs. While interning or volunteering with an organization rarely guarantees you a job at that organization, it’s not uncommon for researchers to be offered jobs after they’ve proven their skills.

Required skills

Human rights research is extremely detail-oriented and precise. The best researchers will have these skills, as well as excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills. They’re able to set and stick to their goals, understand the contexts their research takes place in, follow the facts, and articulate their findings to a wide audience.

Because human rights research involves human rights violations and working with survivors, researchers also need to demonstrate respect, empathy, and emotional resilience. Speaking to survivors, combing through photo evidence, and reporting on violations can be very challenging. Organizations want researchers who are compassionate, but who are also able to mitigate the emotional stress of the work.

How much do human rights researchers get paid?

Salary depends on the organization someone works for, their responsibilities, level of seniority and what level of education they have. According to Zippia’s description of a human rights investigator (a type of job within human rights research), people make an average of $61,556 per year. Those with a master’s degree make just over $68,000 while PhDs make over $70,000. If you work for a smaller organization, your salary will likely be less than what someone with the same job at a larger organization makes. As an example, Glassdoor says that a researcher with the large Human Rights Watch organization makes an average of $76,310 per year with some researchers there making over $90,000. That’s a fairly unusual salary, however. As with most human rights careers, high salaries are not the norm, but you can still find jobs that pay well.

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Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are people who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict or persecution. Unlike refugees, they stay within the borders of their country. They might want to stay close to their homes, lack the resources or physical fitness for the perilous flight or are trapped in conflict areas with no way to escape. IDPs remain under the protection of their government, even if that government is the reason for their displacement.

According to the Global Report on Internal Displacement more than 55 million people were internally displaced at the end of 2020,  48 million as a result of conflict and 7 million due to disasters. 20 million internally displaced persons are children under the age of fifteen. In 2020 most internal displacements happened in East Asia and Pacific (30.3%), Sub-Saharan Africa (27.4%) and South Asia (23.8%). Internal displacement affects all regions of the world.

University of London is now offering a course on Internal Displacement, Conflict and Protection. The course is taught by Professor David Cantor, Professor of Refugee Protection and Forced Migration Studies and Dr Agnes Woolley, Lecturer in Transnational Literature and Migration Cultures. The course takes roughly 27 hours to complete and is self-paced.

In this course participants will learn about internal displacement from a global perspective. Participants of the course will explore global trends in internal displacement, examine the fundamentals of the global protection response for IDPs, and assess the experience of internal displacement through research and artistic sources. Learners who are interested may seek to continue studying the master’s program in Refugee Protection and Forced Migration Studies at University of London.

There are no requirements to enroll in the online course. Learners can audit the course for free or opt-in for a paid certificate for an extra fee. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

Register now

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Nonprofits do important work, but they often have trouble catching people’s attention. There are so many organizations out there and so many issues to care about. How can a nonprofit attract donors when people have a sea of options to choose from? Good graphic design can set an organization apart. Whether it’s a sleek, beautiful website, an animated explainer video, or an accessible infographic, graphic design bridges the communication gap between a nonprofit and its target audience. Here are ten graphic design tools that nonprofits can use to improve their fundraising reach:

Pexels

Unless a nonprofit happens to have a skilled photographer on staff or the money to contract one, they need to get photos and images from somewhere. It can be tempting to try and take photos yourself – and it’s easier than ever thanks to smartphones with cameras – but that takes a lot of time that could be spent on other projects. Pexels is a great website if you need high-quality stock photos available through the Creative Commons Zero license. These photos can be copied, modified, and distributed for free. That includes commercial use, too. The great thing about this freedom is you can crop out things you don’t (like a person’s face), turn a photo black-and-white, or change the photo in another way to better fit your nonprofit’s branding. With over 3.2 million stock images, you should have little trouble finding a photo that fits your needs. Using search terms like “nonprofit,” “human rights,” “refugee,” “hunger,” and “poverty” bring up hundreds of photos. Pexels will suggest related terms if you can’t quite find what you want in the current search.

Animaker

If you need an explainer video or another type of animated clip, Animaker offers a variety of options for video newbies and professionals. They’ve worked with brands like Amazon and Unilever, so rest assured that these videos are high-quality. There are 1000+ templates to choose from, though you can also build your own video with a simple drag-and-drop editor, a character creator, and millions of stock videos and images. You can make GIFs and short videos, too. Cool features include auto lip-sync, so your characters’ lips move with the voiceover you add, and Smart Move, which adds complex moving animations with a click. There’s a free plan, though it doesn’t offer access to much storage or many of the features. There are four paid plans starting at $10 a month.

WordSwag

Looking for a simple way to add text overlay on your photos? WordSwag is only $3.99 on the App Store and Google Play, though you can use it for free, too. You don’t get access to the premium features, however, so it’s probably worth paying for. With the Pro plan, you can add your logo and download high-resolution images for printing. There are tons of available fonts and over 1 million free backgrounds from Pixabay that make your words pop. Other features include trendy frames, layouts, 22 image filters, and effects like gold foil, stamped, and watercolor. You can take or upload your own photos if none of the app’s backgrounds work for your particular text.

Adobe Spark

If you have experience with Photoshop or Illustrator and want an alternative, Adobe Spark is pretty close. It contains three design apps: Spark Page, Spark Post, and Spark Video. Nonprofits can create all their graphic designs in this online and mobile app. If you use the free plan, you can design a lot, though it will have the Adobe Spark watermark on your saved designs. You also get more features on the paid plans, such as access to Adobe’s complete library of premium templates and fonts and the ability to share editing. Adobe does offer pricing discounts for nonprofits. You can get Spark as a standalone app or as part of the Adobe Creative Cloud.

BeFunky

BeFunky is a photo editor and collage maker, but it also offers templates for the increasingly popular infographic. These images present information in a digestible, appealing way that’s perfect for the digital age where attention spans are short. Infographics are also very useful when presenting information to employees, boards, and other in-organization groups. Using the Infographic Maker, you can choose templates or use the graphic designer to start from scratch. Simple features like the ability to upload multiple photos simultaneously cut down on editing time. If you’re okay with using the free plan (which limits access to certain features), you don’t need to create an account. With BeFunky Plus (which costs $4.99 if you pay for a year or $8.99 per month), you can remove objects from photos, remove image backgrounds, add cartoon and painting filters to photos, and reshape objects.

Pixlr

As a Photoshop-like app, Pixlr follows in the same vein as Adobe Spark. It offers similar features like templates, filtered images, photo editors, and text overlay. It has fewer features than Photoshop, which helps make it a bit more accessible for those with little to no experience. Because it’s online, you don’t need to download any software, though there is a Pixlr Desktop editing app for offline editing available to subscribers. It runs on PC and MAC. If you’re new to editing, start with Pixlr X. It offers sleek design templates, ready-made collage layouts, and accessible tools, so you can edit when you need to work quickly. Pixlr E offers more of a classic photo-editing experience, like what you would see from Photoshop. It’s great for more detailed work and includes features like a Fill and Gradient tool, Sponge/Color tool, an advanced color picker, more filters, and more adjustments. AI powers both editors, so working is more intuitive. With the free plan, you get access to Pixlr X and E and the basic editing tools. With Pixlr Premium ($4.90/month) or the Pixlr Creative Pack ($14.99), you get full access to the app’s features, including templates, better image resolution, AI tools, and so on.

Canva

Canva is a great tool because of the variety of its templates. It’s extremely easy to create just about anything, including Facebook posts, videos, presentations, posters, logos, and more. Everything within a template can be edited, too, so it’s simple to tweak every aspect of a design to fit your goals. With Text Animations, you can apply movement to your words. Textures like newspaper, fabric, and patterns accentuate a photo. Stickers and speech bubbles make designs fun and unique. Canva’s free plan gets you access to pretty much everything on the editing side (minus some premium templates, fonts, and images), though with the paid plans, you get things like social scheduling, team templates, and brand management. Registered nonprofits get Canva Pro for free. Useful features include Canva Presentations, which lets you run live lessons and offer your audience a 6-digit code. With this code, they can join canva.live and send questions and comments as you present.

Crello

Crello is similar to Canva. It’s an online editing tool for photos, animations, videos, and more for websites, print, and social media. It has a similar look to Canva with easy-to-use design templates like Instagram posts, posters, and square videos. There are 50,000 templates you can customize to your liking, over 650,000 premium images from Lightfield Productions, 32,000 full HD video clips and animations, and an editor for photos and video. You can browse audio clips and stock images, convert videos to gifs, and more. Registered nonprofits can apply for access (for up to 10 people) to Crello Pro for free! With this plan, you unlock unlimited downloads and help online with priority support. You’re also able to invite team members to design with you and remove backgrounds from images.

Promo

If your nonprofit wants to move into video creation, Promo is a great platform to consider. It offers features like royalty-free music, a library of 15+ million video clips, thousands of templates, and a video editor. Everything is customizable, so experiment with adding and trimming clips, uploading your own images and clips, adding your own music, tweaking fonts, and so on. Promo also offers a social media calendar, an image resizer, and a video-to-GIF maker. If you stick to the basic plan (which is free to qualifying NGOs), you’ll get access to 100 templates, unlimited video downloads, 36 premium assets a year, and no watermark. If you want to use the social media calendar and add your own watermark, you’ll need to get either the Annual Standard or the Annual Pro plan.

Desygner

Not confident in your designing skills? Desygner is designed for “non-designers.” It has thousands of templates for designs like social media cover photos, ads, presentations, business cards, flyers, posters, social media posts, invitations, and more. If you don’t love every part of the template, you can tweak the text, colors, icons, and any images. You can also start from scratch if you don’t like any of the templates. Once you’re done, you can save designs for printing in file types like png, jgp, and pdf. You can share directly to social media and other apps, too. Desygner is free to use, but there’s a Pro Plus plan that includes almost 100 million Shutterstock images, unlimited PDF imports, the ability to collaborate with coworkers, and a built-in social media scheduler on the iOS and Android apps.

The post 10 Non Profit Graphic Design Tools to Make Engaging Visuals appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

This year, Amnesty International releases a book written in partnership with Angelina Jolie and Geraldine Van Bueren. Titled Know Your Rights (And Claim Them), this book describes the history of children’s rights and what rights children are entitled to. It also explores the child activists who make a difference in the world and includes a guide on how children can claim their rights through campaigning, education, and protesting. With endorsements by Malala Yousafzai and Greta Thunberg, this book aimed at kids 13-years and older is a great introduction to human rights. What can you expect from the guide?

A brief history of children’s rights

The concept of children’s rights is fairly new. For years, many cultures viewed children as property. As an example, under English common law until the late 1800s, fathers “owned” their children and their wives. In the 16th and 17th centuries, American colonists continued this tradition. Because children were property, they didn’t receive many rights. Governments looked away when children were abused, neglected, or exploited. This exploitation came to a head in the early 20th century with the rise of industrialization. Children worked the same hours and in the same dangerous conditions as adults but for less pay.

Educational reformers were involved in the movement for children’s rights. They argued that children needed a primary school education if the nation was going to prosper. This meant children shouldn’t work as if they were adults. In 1904, the National Child Labor Committee organized to raise awareness of child exploitation. In 1924, The League of Nations adopted the Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child. In 1946, the United Nations General Assembly established UNICEF, and just two years later, passed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which stated that mothers and children were owed “special care and assistance.” Other treaties and documents followed and in 1989, the UN adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which recognizes children as social, economic, political, civil, and cultural actors.

Buy the book

What rights do children have?

The Convention on the Rights of the Child serves a few important purposes. First, it recognizes children as full human beings who deserve fundamental human rights. These rights apply regardless of a child’s “race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status.” The CRC contains 54 articles laying out the rights that governments and other actors must promote and protect. There are four main categories:

Subsistence (or survival) rights

Survival rights include the basics, like the right to food, healthcare, and shelter.

Development rights

These rights ensure children receive the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. This includes the right to education, freedom of thought, and the right to leisure.

Protection rights

Children must be protected from neglect, abuse, and exploitation. That includes protection from neglect, sexual abuse, and unsafe work conditions.

Participation rights

Children have the right to participate in political life and within their community. They are free to join groups, assemble peacefully, and participate in social activities.

How children’s rights are threatened: why books like Know Your Rights matter

Why should a child read Know Your Rights? There are many threats to children’s safety and security. Common violations of rights include poverty, violence, and discrimination against children based on their gender, migrant status, disabilities, and more. While most governments claim to support children’s rights, there are still major issues.

These issues include violence and armed conflict. Children are uniquely affected when their parents are killed or they’re separated from their families. Numbers are hard to track, but according to UNICEF, there were more than 93,000 children recruited between 2005 and 2020. This is the verified number, but experts believe true numbers are much higher. Child soldiers are killed in high numbers because of their lack of training, inexperience, and use for the most dangerous missions.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also significantly threatened children’s rights. According to 2021 data from UNICEF, progress in every key measure of childhood (which includes education, economic status, and health) went backward. Schools for more than 168 million children closed for almost a year. Only 1 in 3 were able to access remote learning. The social disruption caused by the pandemic also creates fuel for more child marriages, abuse, and labor exploitation. Many children also lost their guardians to the disease, making them even more vulnerable as orphans.

Know Your Rights: about the authors

Amnesty International is an NGO headquartered in the United Kingdom. Initially began as an organization for political prisoners, it has since expanded its mission in defending human rights. It is the third-oldest international human rights organization.

Angelina Jolie is an actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian. She’s worked as a Special Envoy for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Geraldine Van Bueren is a professor and a barrister. She’s a member of Doughty Street Chambers.

Buy the book

The post Amnesty International and Angelina Jolie Publish Book about Children’s Human Rights appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

Lawyers are a popular subject for movies. Depending on the story, they might be portrayed as cutthroat and cold-hearted, or as passionate and willing to sacrifice their well-being for justice. Some of the best compelling films about lawyers showcase the latter. In the real world, human rights lawyers face many challenges.  They focus on human rights violations and the people most often victimized, such as women, racial minorities, refugees and members of the LGBTQ+ community. To see justice fulfilled, lawyers often face off against governments, corporations, the military and other powerful groups and individuals. Harnessing their expertise, lawyers help ensure human rights are upheld and that abusers are held accountable. Here are 13 movies about lawyers fighting for justice and human rights:

#1. Philadelphia (1993)

Director: Jonathan Demme
Starring: Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Mary Steenburgen

Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks) works as a senior associate at a corporate law firm in Philadelphia. He’s gay but chooses to keep his sexuality and AIDS diagnosis private. After he’s fired for misplacing paperwork, Beckett suspects the firm learned about his illness. He decides to sue his former employer. Philadelphia was one of the first mainstream films to discuss homophobia, homosexuality and HIV/AIDs. Tom Hanks won an Academy Award for Best Actor, while the film was nominated for Best Original Screenplay. It’s inspired by the real-life story of an attorney who sued for wrongful dismissal in 1987.

#2. The Fight (2020)

Directors: Eli Despres, Josh Kriegman, Elyse Steinberg

This documentary follows a team of lawyers from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), a nonprofit human rights organization working to protect individual rights and liberties in the United States. Five legal battles are covered, including the opposition to the Trump administration’s travel ban, which targeted Muslims, and a rejection of the Trump order banning transgender personnel in the military. The four lawyers in the film – and the clients they represent – display powerful, heart-wrenching commitments to justice. The film won the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Social Impact Filmmaking at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival.

What do human rights lawyers do? Here’s our article describing the type of work this professional engages in.

#3. Marshall (2017)

Director: Reginald Hudlin
Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Josh Gad, Kate Hudson

Thurgood Marshall was the first Black justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. This legal drama centers on one of Marshall’s early cases: the State of Connecticut v. Joseph Spell. In this 1940 case, a wealthy white woman accuses her Black chauffeur of rape. The event immediately draws the attention of the media, who create sensationalist headlines. It’s the perfect case to fuel racial stereotypes held by the nation. Marshall, who works as the NAACP’s head lawyer, defends Spell with the help of a local lawyer. While Spell’s boss claims he attacked her, Spell has a very different story. Will the truth come out?

#4. Dark Waters (2019)

Director: Todd Haynes
Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Anne Hathaway, Bill Camp

Corporate defense lawyer Robert Bilot (Mark Ruffalo) has his life turned upside down when a farmer (Bill Camp) from his grandmother’s hometown arrives at his office. The man wants Robert’s help investigating the chemical corporation DuPont. Robert is initially unsure of what he should do, but when he visits the farm himself, he grows more and more suspicious. Dark Waters follows Robert’s real-life quest to find the truth, the toll it takes on him and how he holds DuPont accountable for their deception. While Robert didn’t start as a human rights lawyer, his battle on behalf of those affected by the corporation’s actions certainly qualifies him.

#5. Erin Brockovich (2000)

Director: Steven Soderbergh
Starring: Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Aaron Eckhart,

In 1993, Erin Brockovich became a whistleblower against PG&E after she discovered the company contaminating the groundwater in Hinkley, California. She was a paralegal, and with attorney Ed Masry, they won their case against the massive corporation. Her story is the subject of the film Erin Brockovich, which stars Julia Roberts and Albert Finney. Brockovich would go on to work on other anti-pollution lawsuits and as a consultant and activist.

#6. Shahid (2012)

Director: Hansal Mehta
Starring: Rajkummar Rao, Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub, Prabhleen Sandhu

This film is based on the life of Shahid Azmi, an Indian lawyer. During the 1992 Bombay riots, Azmi was arrested. Because he was young and there wasn’t much evidence against him, he was released without jail time. As an adult, he is arrested again. This time, he spends seven years in jail based solely on a confession he never actually made. While imprisoned, he takes a distance course and becomes a lawyer. Following his release, Azmi begins defending others accused of terrorism. Passionate and driven, Azmi attracts the ire of many for his work. What will it cost him?

For those interested in studying human rights law, here’s our article on 12 of the best LL.M. programs.

#7. Just Mercy (2019)

Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx, Brie Larson

Harvard graduate Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) moves to Alabama to fight for those who can’t afford proper representation. With Eva Ansley (Brie Larson), he starts the Equal Justice Initiative and visits a prison to meet with death row inmates. There, he connects with Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), a Black man given the death penalty for a murder he didn’t commit. Working within a complex and racist justice system, Stevenson fights to see that justice is done. Just Mercy is based on Stevenson’s award-winning memoir of the same name. Stevenson continues his work defending the human rights of people caught in the criminal justice system. He’s argued (and won) multiple cases at the United States Supreme Court.

#8. Advocate (2019)

Directors: Rachel Leah Jones and Philippe Bellaïche

Advocate follows the Jewish-Israeli human rights lawyer Lea Tsemel, who defends Palestinians accused of terrorism. Through archival footage of her career, which spans over five decades, as well as interviews with Tsemel, her family and her associates, the film explores the lawyer’s motivations for her work. Viewers also learn more about two contemporary cases Tsmele is involved with. She is a controversial figure, called a hero by some and a traitor by others. The film premiered at the 2019 Sundance Festival and has won many awards at festivals around the world.

Interested in human rights and social justice law? Here’s our guide on the job’s tasks, salary and career paths.

#9. Motley’s Law (2015)

Director: Nicole N. Horanyi

After seeing her father fight for the right to disability following a car accident, Kimberly Motley found herself drawn to the law. She earned a law degree and worked as a public defender in Wisconsin for five years, but in 2008, she traveled to Afghanistan for a legal education program. What she experienced led her to stay and become the first foreign attorney to practice in Afghanistan. Motley’s Law, an award-winning documentary, provides a look into her life and work for human rights. She’s represented children, journalists, activists and others whose rights are under threat.

#10. Gideon’s Army (2013)

Director: Dawn Porter

In 1961, a man was arrested for burglary. Clarence Earl Gideon didn’t have the money to hire a defense lawyer, but when he appeared in court alone and asked for a lawyer, the judge refused. In Florida, the court was only required to appoint counsel when the defendant was charged with a capital offense. Forced to represent himself, Gideon was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. The case that came from this incident, Gideon v. Wainwright (1963), determined that the right to counsel extends throughout every state and that those who can’t afford lawyers must be appointed counsel. As a result, Gideon was given another trial – this time with a lawyer – and was acquitted. Named after Gideon’s case, the documentary Gideon’s Army follows three public defenders committed to representing disenfranchised people in the Southern United States. It won the Candescent Award at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival.

#11. The Uncondemned (2015)

Directors: Michele Mitchell and Nick Louvel

For around 100 days in 1994, Hutu militias in Rwanda targeted the Tutsi minority ethnic group, enacting what is now known as the Rwandan Genocide. In 1997, Jean-Paul Akayesu, a former educator and politician from Rwanda, stood trial for 15 counts of genocide, violations of the Geneva Convention and crimes against humanity. The case was unique because it was the first trial to prosecute rape as a war crime and an act of genocide. The Uncondemned examines Akayesu’s trial. The film features three rape survivors, who anonymously testified, as well as the American prosecutors who developed the case against Akayesu.

#12. On the Basis of Sex (2018)

Director: Mimi Leder
Starring: Felicity Jones, Armie Hammer, Justin Theroux

The biographical legal drama On the Basis of Sex explores the early career of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court. It begins with Ginsberg as a young student in law school. Following her graduation at the top of her class, Ginsberg learns no law firm will hire her because she’s a woman. She takes a job as a professor but soon finds an opportunity to challenge a sexist law in court. The film focuses on a specific case that jump-started Ginsberg’s career as a lawyer committed to striking down sex-based laws.

Gender inequality is an issue many human rights lawyers fight against. Here’s our article on what everyone should know about gender equality.

#13. Illegal Woman (2020)

Director: Ramon Térmens
Starring: Daniel Faraldo, Isak Férriz, Yolanda Sey

Fernando (played by Daniel Faraldo) works as an immigration lawyer in Spain. When his latest client, a sex worker at risk for deportation, is found dead in her cell, Fernando doesn’t believe the official story of suicide. He decides to investigate. With the help of his deceased client’s friend, Fernando risks his own safety to learn the truth. Illegal Woman is in Spanish. It doesn’t appear to be based on a true story, but it shines a light on the brutal treatment often faced by migrants and the lawyers working to protect their human rights.

The post 13 Movies About Human Rights Lawyers appeared first on Human Rights Careers.

An LLM in human rights is an internationally recognized advanced law degree that focuses on the laws that protect and guarantee human rights at the local, national, regional, and international levels. Programs are often offered by universities that have established human rights research centers on their campus. In addition to providing educational opportunities, many programs also include mandatory or optional internships with non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations.

What you’ll learn in a LL.M. in Human Rights Law

Students in LLM human rights programs can expect to learn about a variety of legal fields, including human rights law, international law, humanitarian law, international criminal law, and refugee law. Moreover, they will learn about international courts, human rights protection mechanisms and the functioning of international organizations. Schools may have a particular regional or topical focus or offer a broad introduction to human rights law.

How much does an LLM in Human Rights Law cost?

The cost of LLM programs varies from university to university. Often, students can receive financial aid, scholarships, fellowships, grants and loans to offset the costs. Generally, costs are in the range between 10,000 and 20,000 USD in Europe and can reach more than 50,000 USD in the USA. Fees for programs often depend on your status e.g. whether or not you are a domestic or international student. In addition, some LLM programs require students to pay a fee for their application.

What are the career prospects for graduates of an LLM in human rights program?

Graduates of LLM in human rights degree programs often work for international law firms focused on human rights. Moreover, they may find employment with non-governmental organizations such as Oxfam and Amnesty International, advocacy groups, the United Nations (UN), and other international organizations or human rights entities including human rights courts. There are plenty of options available for LLM graduates.

12 LL.M. Human Rights Programs for Your Consideration

You can find LLM human rights programs all over the world, but many of the best programs are based in the United States, the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Students often prefer schools that are located near The Hague, Geneva, Washington, D.C., New York City or London, as these are areas where human rights entities and organizations are headquartered.

Let’s take a look at some top universities where you can study a human rights LL.M.

#1 University of Law (United Kingdom)

LLM International Human Rights – Full-time
LLM International Human Rights – Part-time

Key information
University	University of Law
Country	United Kingdom
Learning mode	Online, On-Campus
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12 to 24 months
Tuition fee	£9,200 (Domestic), £12,360 (Non-Domestic)
Application deadline(s)	September
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The University of Law (ULAW) is UK’s largest law school. Founded in 1876, ULAW is among the top universities to study a LLM in International Human Rights Law globally. The curriculum of the LLM focuses on international human rights law, human rights protection and includes practical training on human rights advocacy, international criminal law and dispute resolution. Moreover, the masters programme offers a comprehensive module on research methods. The LLM in International Human Rights Law opens up a variety of career paths for those who want to become human rights lawyers, researchers or advocates.

The LLM is offered in a full-time (12 months) and part-time (21 months) track and accepts students from legal and non-legal backgrounds. Students from non-legal backgrounds are required to do an additional entry exam. Students can choose to study on-campus or online. University of Law offers a range of funding options for prospective students, including scholarships, bursaries and student loans.

The university of Law has nine campuses all over the UK, including in Birmingham, Bristol, Chester, Guildford, Leeds, London, Manchester, Nottingham and Sheffield, as well as an international branch in Hong Kong.

#2 Columbia University (United States)

General LLM with specialization in Social Justice and Human Rights

Key information
University	Columbia University
Country	United States
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	10 months
Tuition fee	$82,467
Application deadline(s)	September
Funding	Scholarships and Fellowships
Official Website	Click here

Open to lawyers from around the world, Columbia University is offering a general LLM programme where students can choose from various specializations, including social justice and human rights. For this programme a limited amount of scholarships is available for outstanding students. If you would like to be considered for financial aid, the submission of a Fellowship essay is required upon application.

In the first part of the programme you will receive an Introduction to American Law and develop your skills in legal and research writing. Moreover, you will attend introductory programs on career development where you can explore careers in the private sector, social justice and the office of Judical Clerkships.

Students are required to pay $85 for application.

#3 Geneva Academy (Switzerland)

LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights

Key information
University	Geneva Academy
Country	Switzerland
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	CHF 18,000 (≈ 18,700 USD)
Application deadline(s)	November
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The Geneva Academy offers both full and partial scholarships for its LLM program in Human Rights. Full scholarships cover the cost of tuition and living expenses in Geneva for ten months. This is a one-year postgraduate degree and one of the most innovative LLM programs in international human rights law in Europe. Students are presented with intellectually challenging material on some of the most essential human rights issues of the day.

The program provides practical training in both international humanitarian law and human rights law, as well as international criminal law, and highlights the ways all three affect each. Faculty includes renowned institutions and human rights entities, including the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

While core classes offer a firm foundation in a variety of legal areas concerning human rights, students can tailor their program to a specific interest. Examples of these interests include armed non-state actors, the regulations concerning international courts or tribunals, and counter-terrorism.

#4 Leiden University (The Netherlands)

LL.M. in European and International Human Rights Law

Key information
University	Leiden University
Country	The Netherlands
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	€19,300 (Full-time), €9,650 (Part-time)
Application deadline(s)	Before September
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

University of Leiden in The Netherlands offers a LLM in European and International Human Rights Law. The programme is offered in a full-time and part-time version and costs €19,300 (Full-time) or €9,650 (Part-time)

The master is specialised on the comparison of human rights protection systems in Europe and around the world. You will study international law in action and also explore different strategies for the promotion of human rights. The master aims to turn students into effective advocates for promoting the basic rights and fundamental freedoms that are inherent to all human beings.

The lectures and workshops during the study are taught by in-house academic staff and by renowned human rights experts working for the UN, the EU, NGOs or other organisations. The LLM includes a study trip to Strasbourg and Geneva to experience international courts first-hand.

#5 Queen Mary University (United Kingdom)

Human Rights Law LLM

Key information
University	Queen Mary University
Country	United Kingdom
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	£17,250 and £26,250
Application deadline(s)	Before September
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

Queen Mary’s program is the first association between a graduate school and a non-governmental organization. It’s designed to offer cutting-edge theory to students pursuing scholarship in human rights. Tuition costs between £17,250 and £26,250. The School of Law at Queen Mary offers a range of funding opportunities (scholarships and studentships) for postgraduate study.

The program focuses on issues that are currently at the forefront of the world stage. These issues include international women’s rights, socio-economic rights and issues, the rights of children, and the rights of other just as vulnerable groups based on economic status, culture, language, and other areas.

It’s one of the top ten law schools in the UK, and many of the staff are nationally recognized experts, both in law and NGO experts in socio-cultural theory. The law center also offers specialized training in critical thinking and writing to give you the skills necessary to write effective briefs and hone your academic, legal writing skills. You’ll also have access to some of the best databases and brick and mortar libraries in the world to do your research. The law center is located within walking distance to many law firms and the University of London Library at Senate House.

#6 University of Dundee (Scotland)

Business and Human Rights LLM

Key information
University	University of Dundee
Country	Scotland
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	£19,900 (International Students), £8,350 (England, Ukraine, Scotland)
Application deadline(s)	July for International Students / August for UK students
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The University of Dundee offers two full scholarships for students demonstrating honors level work in law and a commitment to work in human rights. The University of Dundee is one of the top-ranked law schools in Scotland and focuses on areas such as business and human rights, climate change and gig economy. Students can choose from optional modules in corporate governance, investment law and water law.

Classes are taught by staff members nationally ranked in their field and dedicated to their work. Students have a combination of classes, seminar, and research methods. Students also participate in legal research courses to hone vital academic research skills in this field, culminating in a written dissertation at the end.

Law students can apply for a global internship with Pagoda Projects to develop employability skills and gain valuable international work experience.

#7 American University (United States)

LL.M. in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law

Key information
University	American University
Country	United States
Learning mode	On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	$58,724
Application deadline(s)	May and October
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

American University’s Washington College of Law offers many opportunities for LLM students to apply for full tuition funding and fellowships. It offers scholarship assistance to students showing aptitude for law and a dedication to the areas of human rights and advocacy.

The LLM program is a hybrid masters program with both onsite and online curriculum offerings, allowing students a wide range of flexibility to acquire their advanced degree. It’s offered in both English and Spanish, making it one of the most accessible LLM programs in international human rights law in the world.

The residential component of the degree is taught by experts from the Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian law during its summer intensive courses. These are specialized courses designed for an intensive introduction to the world of international human rights, and students are required to be available for two three-week sessions during the summer term.

The virtual courses are taught in live two-hour sessions in which students from around the world interact with the faculty and each other. Students participate in the coursework and benefit from working with their peers from around the world.

The faculty themselves are experts in the field and practicing lawyers in Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. They are essential contacts for future employment and include NGO members, international tribunal judges, and members of UN treaty bodies, among other experts.

Note: Online and hybrid students who receive the LL.M. in International Human Rights & Humanitarian Law will not be eligible to sit for the NY bar exam.

#8 University of Bristol Law School (United Kingdom)

LLM in Human Rights Law

Key information
University	University of Hong Kong
Country	Hong Kong
Learning mode	Hybrid
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	1-2 years
Tuition fee	£20,900 (overseas students) / £10,900 (UK students)
Application deadline(s)	July/August
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

Ranking among the top 10 UK Law School’s, University of Bristol is offering a LL.M. in Human Rights Law that can be completed within 1-2 years. The curriculum of the programme is focused on learning about human rights frameworks and protection mechanisms at regional and global level. Moreover, the programme offers specalised modules on employment law, mental health, migration and other optional topics. The Master of Laws also aims to equip students with excellent legal, analytical and research skills.

Taught by leading academics from the Human Rights Implementation Centre, the LL.M. offers students the opportunity to participate in legal clinics to hone their practical skills. Alumni of the programme work as solicitors, barristers, lawyers and researchers in international and European organisations, such as the United Nations or the European Commission.

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 10% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study.

#9 University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong)

Master of Laws in Human Rights

Key information
University	University of Hong Kong
Country	Hong Kong
Learning mode	Hybrid
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	42,100 and 171,000 HK$ per year
Application deadline(s)	February
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The Master of Laws (LL.M) in Human Rights Programme was established in 1999 in response to the growing demand for knowledge about human rights in the Asia-Pacific region. The Programme focuses on human rights issues of global concern, including in the Asia-Pacific region, and aims to foster an active learning environment.

Lecturers of the programme include experts in the human rights sector from around the world including eminent scholars, judges, United Nations employees and directors of NGOs.

The programme attracts students from a broad range of backgrounds including lawyers, judges, human rights professionals working for international organizations, NGOs or institutions. Moreover, investigative journalists, human rights scholars, government officials and doctors are among the alumni of the Masters.

#10 Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Germany)

Master of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law – LLM

Key information
University	University of Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder)
Country	Germany
Learning mode	Hybrid
Pace	Full-time, Part-time
Duration	12-24 months
Tuition fee	€ 6.100 for LL.M. Program (full- and part-time study)
Application deadline(s)	February
Funding	External Sources
Official Website	Click here

The Master of International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law aims to prepare students for careers in policy making, international, public and governmental service as well as public and private legal practice. Moreover, graduates of this programme work for non-governmental organizations or pursue an academic teaching or research career.

The programme is focused on human rights protection in the context of armed conflict. Many of its modules are designed to explore the linkages and occasionally contradictions of human rights law and international humanitarian law. In addition to developing theoretical knowledge, the master aims to equip students with reliable practical skills in the application of their theoretical knowledge.

Students will learn to apply international standards of protection in specific circumstances, in particular in international court proceedings and other institutional procedures, the investigation of facts, or conflict resolution.

#11 University of Edinburgh (Scotland)

LLM in Human Rights

Key information
University	University of Edinburgh
Country	Scotland
Learning mode	On-Campus
Pace	Full-time
Duration	12 months
Tuition fee	£14,400 (UK), £25,300 (International / EU)
Application deadline(s)	Every 3-4 months
Funding	Scholarships and Bursaries
Official Website	Click here

The LLM in Human Rights is designed to provide you with a theoretical and practical understanding of international human rights law in its broader political context, with a particular emphasis on human rights in times of transition, including conflict situations or other political and societal movements.

You will have the opportunity to not only explore the global role of human rights and the international and domestic machinery that promotes and enforces rights, but also how academic debates connect to the practice of human rights.

The programme has a flexible structure, including some interdisciplinary options, that enables you to tailor your curriculum to best suit your individual interests and career plans, drawing from a choice of specialised courses from the Law School and the School of Social and Political Science.

#12 University of Essex (United Kingdom)

LLM International Humanitarian Law