JOB PURPOSE

As the Researcher on the Great Lakes, with a focus on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), you will be Amnesty International's lead expert in this area. You will develop and implement impactful research and campaigning strategies that address key human rights concerns in the DRC and, where relevant, in Rwanda and Burundi. Working closely with colleagues across the International Secretariat, you will deliver high-quality, action-oriented research and analysis, engage with a wide range of stakeholders, and contribute to effective campaigning and advocacy efforts.

ABOUT YOU

You bring significant expertise in human rights research, with a deep understanding of the political, social, and legal context in the DRC, and ideally across the wider Great Lakes region. You have strong analytical and communication skills and are confident in engaging with a broad range of actors – from survivors and grassroots activists to media, intergovernmental bodies, and government officials. You are an excellent writer who can produce clear, compelling reports and briefings under tight deadlines.

You are committed to human rights, comfortable working independently and collaboratively, and capable of managing a complex workload in a fast-paced environment. You are fluent in English and French, both written and spoken.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic, action-oriented research and campaigning on the DRC and, where relevant, the wider Great Lakes region.
• Monitor, investigate, and analyse developments in the region to produce accurate, independent, and impartial assessments of human rights concerns.
• Conduct and lead field research missions, including fact-finding and stakeholder interviews, and ensure the security and effectiveness of research activities.
• Produce high-quality written outputs, including public reports, media materials, and internal briefings, tailored to diverse audiences.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, including civil society actors, survivors, legal professionals, intergovernmental bodies, and the media.
• Represent Amnesty International in public and private forums, including advocacy meetings, conferences, and interviews.
• Collaborate with colleagues across regional and thematic teams to ensure research is integrated into broader campaigning, communications, and advocacy strategies.
• Contribute to strategic planning at both regional and sub-regional levels.
• Coordinate and support the work of colleagues, consultants, and volunteers involved in research and campaigning efforts.     

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience of undertaking high-quality research on human rights or related areas.
• Specialist knowledge and first-hand experience of the DRC; familiarity with human rights dynamics in Rwanda and Burundi is desirable.
• Excellent political judgment and strategic thinking, with the ability to analyse complex human rights situations.
• Strong communication skills, including experience representing organisations to external stakeholders.
• Excellent writing skills with the ability to tailor content for different audiences, including for digital platforms.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and French.
• Experience working in cross-functional teams, with strong interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Ability to manage competing demands and adapt to shifting priorities.
• Commitment to Amnesty International's mission, values, and standards of impartiality and independence.
• Understanding of and commitment to equality, diversity, and gender sensitivity.

Please see the attached job description for more information on responsibilities, skills and experience required.

ABOUT US

Amnesty International is a global movement of more than 10 million people who campaign for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all. We reach almost every country in the world.

Our aim is simple: an end to human rights abuses. Independent, international and influential, we campaign for justice, fairness, freedom and truth wherever they're denied. And whether we're applying pressure through powerful research or direct lobbying, mass demonstrations or online campaigning, we're all inspired by hope for a better world. One where human rights are respected and protected by everyone, everywhere.

At Amnesty International, we are passionate about what we do and we are proud of our achievements as a movement. To compensate our employees for the critical work they do, we reward them through a combination of an attractive and sector competitive salary and benefits package, high levels of engagement and involvement, and a commitment to employee development.

Benefits include 37 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays and grace days), pension scheme, employee assistance programme, life assurance and many more benefits designed to suit your own personal lifestyle. All of this, in a professional, engaging environment.

For further information on our benefits, please visit https://www.amnesty.org/en/careers/benefits/

WHAT WE HOPE YOU WILL DO NEXT

If you are talented, passionate about human rights and want to use your skills, knowledge and experience to change the world then we would encourage you to click ‘Apply for this Role' below.

Freedom, Justice, Equality. Let's get to work.

N.B. We reserve the right to close a vacancy BEFORE the closing date in the event of an overwhelming response or a change in business priorities, therefore we recommend you apply now if you are interested.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: 

Amnesty International believes in a world that is fair, inclusive and equitable. Together, we're committed to being an anti-racist organisation with a diverse workforce that can better tackle the global human rights challenges that face our world today. We know that different voices, ideas, perspectives, experiences and knowledge, working together will enable us to better the lives of people around the world.

We are committed to building and sustaining an anti-racist, culturally diverse and inclusive organisation, where all employees feel valued, have a sense of belonging and an equal opportunity to fulfil their potential. We therefore strongly welcome applications from suitably qualified people regardless of their background; including underrepresented groups, LGBTQI+ individuals and those who may have or are living with a disability.

To see our full statement please visit this link: Racial equality, equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion policy - Amnesty International

Amnesty International is committed to being an inclusive employer and providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process for all. If you would like to receive any information in a different way or would like us to do anything differently to help you apply for our roles, please get in touch with the team by emailing recruitment@amnesty.org