Applications are now open for the prestigious Leonard H. Sandler Fellowship 2027–2028 at Human Rights Watch (HRW), one of the world’s leading international human rights organizations. Established in memory of Judge Leonard H. Sandler, a distinguished Columbia Law School graduate and lifelong advocate for civil rights and liberties, this highly competitive fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity for emerging legal professionals to launch impactful careers in international human rights research, advocacy, and policy.
The fellowship is exclusively available to candidates who will obtain a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Columbia Law School by June 2027. Successful fellows will join Human Rights Watch for a one-year, full-time appointment beginning in September 2027, working alongside leading human rights experts on critical issues affecting communities around the world.
About the Leonard H. Sandler Fellowship
The Leonard H. Sandler Fellowship is designed to develop the next generation of human rights advocates by providing practical experience in research, investigation, reporting, and advocacy. Fellows are integrated into Human Rights Watch’s global work and contribute directly to initiatives that influence governments, international institutions, policymakers, and civil society organizations.
Most fellows are based in New York City or Washington, D.C., although other HRW office locations may be considered depending on organizational needs and project requirements. Human Rights Watch also offers flexibility through hybrid and remote work arrangements where appropriate.
The fellowship combines intensive professional development with mentorship, providing fellows with regular feedback, guidance, and exposure to some of the most pressing human rights challenges facing the world today.
Fellowship Responsibilities
Throughout the fellowship year, participants will undertake substantive research and advocacy activities that contribute directly to Human Rights Watch’s mission.
Key responsibilities include:
• Monitoring human rights developments in assigned countries or regions.
• Conducting field-based and office-based investigations into human rights abuses.
• Interviewing victims, witnesses, government officials, experts, and other stakeholders.
• Drafting reports, briefing papers, and other human rights documentation.
• Supporting advocacy initiatives aimed at influencing policy and institutional reform.
• Participating in media outreach and public awareness efforts.
• Collaborating with researchers, advocates, and regional experts across HRW’s global network.
The fellowship provides a unique opportunity to engage in evidence-based human rights work that can contribute to meaningful policy change and accountability.
Areas of Research and Impact
Previous fellows have worked on a wide range of human rights issues across multiple regions of the world. Examples of past projects include:
• Alternatives to immigration detention.
• Protection of migrant workers’ rights in Gulf countries.
• Educational access for Syrian refugee children in Jordan.
• Hazardous child labor in artisanal gold mining operations in Tanzania.
• Environmental and community impacts of abandoned coal mines in South Africa.
• Housing rights and urban development issues in New York City.
These examples demonstrate the breadth of opportunities available to fellows and the organization’s commitment to addressing diverse human rights challenges globally.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must meet specific educational and professional criteria.
Educational Requirement
Applicants must either hold or be expected to receive a J.D. degree from Columbia Law School by June 2027.
Required Experience and Skills
Human Rights Watch seeks candidates with demonstrated commitment to human rights and strong research capabilities.
Essential qualifications include:
• Prior research experience, particularly involving interviews and evidence collection.
• Demonstrated interest in international human rights and public interest advocacy.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgment.
• Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to engage effectively with diverse communities.
• Commitment to maintaining rigorous methodological standards in human rights investigations.
In addition, proficiency in a language other than English is strongly preferred and may strengthen an application considerably.
Fellowship Benefits
The Leonard H. Sandler Fellowship offers a competitive compensation package designed to support fellows throughout the program.
Benefits include:
• Annual salary of US$70,000.
• Comprehensive employer-paid benefits.
• Reasonable relocation assistance.
• Professional mentorship and career development support.
• Hands-on experience with a globally recognized human rights organization.
• Access to HRW’s international network of researchers, advocates, and policy experts.
While Human Rights Watch may assist with work authorization processes where possible, the organization cannot guarantee the ability to secure work authorization in the United States. Nevertheless, candidates of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit a complete application through the Human Rights Watch online careers portal.
Required application materials include:
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé.
• Letter of interest.
• Brief writing sample that has not been edited by others.
All documents must be submitted in PDF format.
Shortlisted candidates will subsequently be invited to provide:
• Two letters of recommendation.
• An official law school or graduate school transcript.
Selected applicants should be available for interviews during mid-to-late November 2026.
Important Deadline
The application deadline for the Leonard H. Sandler Fellowship is:
12 October 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET).
Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials well before the deadline to avoid technical issues and ensure full consideration.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Leonard H. Sandler Fellowship represents one of the most respected entry points into the international human rights field. Beyond offering competitive financial support, the fellowship provides unparalleled exposure to high-impact investigations, policy advocacy, and global human rights campaigns.
For aspiring human rights lawyers committed to advancing justice, accountability, and fundamental freedoms worldwide, this fellowship offers a rare opportunity to gain practical experience while contributing to work that influences governments, international organizations, and public discourse around the globe.
