CHINA RESEARCHER

Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking a Researcher who will focus on improving respect for human rights in China.  This position will report to the China Director in the Asia Division.  

Responsibilities:

1. Research, monitor and document the human rights situation in China by collecting and analyzing information from a wide variety of sources including governments, media, academia, NGOs, victims, witnesses, journalists, diplomats, security forces and others;

2. Write and publicize reports, briefing papers, letters, news releases, op-eds, and submissions to international bodies; collect supporting documents and materials such as photographs and videos;

3. Assist in the development and implementation of local, regional, and international strategies to change abusive laws, policies, and practices;

4. Respond to queries from the media, public, and colleagues in the human rights community and take initiative to project concerns in public debates;

5. Place abuses within the broader political, social and economic contexts and present human rights concerns to government officials, opinion leaders, inter-governmental agencies, and the media;

6. Work closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local human rights organizations to ensure that HRW’s work complements and enhances their own work without jeopardizing their security;

7. Liaise effectively with HRW staff located in multiple locations throughout the world to ensure effective coordination and delivery of activities;

8. Travel internationally, as required;

9. Deliver outputs in a timely manner and consistent with the agreed strategy and priorities of the Asia division; and

10. Carry out any other duties as required.

Qualifications:

Education: An advanced (graduate) degree in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or related studies is preferable.

Experience: A minimum of three years of professional-level experience working on China, preferably in human rights or related issues, is required.

Related Skills and Knowledge: 

1. Ability to identify, research, analyze and effectively communicate important human rights developments in China is required.

2. Ability and sensitivity to conduct interviews with a wide range of people, including victims and witnesses, is required.

3. Ability to identify and advise on strategies to conduct research and advocacy is required.

4. Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human rights law are required.

5. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Mandarin are required.

6. Strong initiative and follow-through, capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent editing skills, and dynamic public speaking skills are required.

7. Strong interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.

8. Ability to multi-task effectively, including having strong planning and organizing skills, and ability to work under pressure are required.

9. Ability to think strategically about the global and local media environments and how to use the media and electronic media to further goals are required.

10. Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events is required.

Salary and Benefits:  HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits.  HRW will pay reasonable relocation expenses and will assist employees in obtaining necessary work authorization, if required; citizens of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.

Contact:  Please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, salary requirements, a brief writing sample (unedited by others), and contact information for three references to asiajobs@hrw.org. Please use“China Researcher Ref ASIA-15-1007” as the subject of your email. 

Only complete applications will be reviewed and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.