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What is the Human Rights Internship in South Africa all about?
Gain practical legal, advocacy and NGO development skills by joining this Human Rights and Law internship in South Africa.
South Africa has one of the most liberal constitutions in the world and is home to many progressive human rights NGOs. Yet, many South Africans are still denied some of their rights and freedoms, as should be guaranteed to them by law.
This Human Rights internship in South Africa works with a variety of local organizations. Interns are matched with programs based on their skills, experience and interest to ensure they are able to offer assistance that contributes to the overall mission of the host organization. Most host organizations are service-oriented and specialize in different areas, such as women’s rights, domestic and gender-based violence, or refugee, migrant and asylum seeker rights.
This Human Right Internship in South Africa is a great opportunity to gain some skills in your field of study and career interest, whilst providing valuable practicable support to those who have had their human rights violated. South Africa is committed to building a human rights-based society, making it the ideal location to gain an understanding of human right’s violations and challenges within the country.
Why choose this Human Rights and Law Internship in South Africa placement?
- Gain insight into human rights issues in South Africa
- Develop your legal and advocacy skills in an international context
- Make a valuable contribution to local organizations supporting women, refugees, migrants and asylum seekers
Role of the Human Rights and Law Intern
This internship gives interns a chance to make an impact progressing human rights in South Africa by working with a local organization combating local and national issues. Your role and tasks will depend on your areas of studies and interests, but you can rest assured that you will contribute to the overall mission of your host organization, helping victims of human rights violations.
What skills do I need to be a Human Rights and Law Intern in South Africa?
In order to be accepted on the Human Rights Internship in South Africa, you will be asked to go through an interview process to determine your eligibility. Interns must be either law students or graduates, or possess some relevant experience. Flexibility, willingness to learn, and a passion for the cause are also essential. This placement can be very emotional, so a certain level of maturity is also required.
WHY JOIN THE PROJECT
To contribute in a positive way to a local issue
Gain on-hands experience in the field that you truly care about
Be exposed to the local culture and the context of the issue
FEATURED VIDEO
PROJECT TESTIMONIALS

Where will I work in South Africa?
About the Location
As an intern, you will live and work in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town, well known for its iconic attractions such as Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope on your doorstep. Cape Town has a lot to offer, from independent and lively restaurants and cafes, to marine life, wildlife, and surfing.
What to do in your spare time
Cape Town is a great place to start if you want to visit the scenic Garden Route, or climb up the famous Table Mountain during your time off. You may also want to venture further afield and participate in a safari or visit Cape Point where the Indian and Atlantic meets. If you are into watersports, or just beaches, it’s a great place to be to experience surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, and many other things.
Details & Costs
- Duration: 2-6 months
- Cost: £2158/$3369 for 8 weeks. See drop-down menu for additional monthly pricing
- Requirements: Age 18+
- Location: Cape Town, South Africa
- Working hours: Mondays through Fridays, 30 hours per week
- Project availability: Weekly year-round
- Arrival day: Sunday
What is included
- Accommodation: shared accommodation (dorm rooms of 4-8). Single room available for additional cost, dependent on availability.
- Food: Two meals (breakfast and dinner) from Monday to Friday
- Airport: pick-up and drop-off from/to Cape Town International Airport
- Access to personal online Kaya Community account including:
- Pre-departure information pack for “country”
- Fundraising Guide
- How to Manage your Money Abroad Guide
- Learning Reflection Guide
- Healthcare Ethics and Culture Documents
- On the ground training:
- Cultural and safety orientation and project induction
- Weekly culture series
- Weekly social gatherings
- Support: 24-hour support including emergency contact numbers from local team
- Excursion Planning assistance from local staff (activity prices may be extra)
- Certificate on completion of your internship placement diary and presentation to the local team
- Supervision from qualified professional
- Wi-Fi in accommodation
- Laundry in accommodation
What is not included
- Flights
- Insurance
- Visas
- Food: meals are not included
- Transport to/from project
- Police/Government Background Check: US and UK citizens will be processed through Kaya (admin fee applies); all other nationalities must provide local police check.
- Routine vaccinations
Easy 4-step application process
APPLY ONLINE
Apply online and pay your application fee to apply for your space on your chosen project. Our advisors will then contact you to guide you through the next steps.
TELEPHONE INTERVIEW
Once we’ve received your application, we’ll review your details and be in touch to arrange your informal telephone interview with your Kaya Placement Advisor.
CONFIRMATION
Following your interview, we will provide you a placement offer. Once you are ready to confirm your placement and dates, you can pay your confirmation fee to book and secure your space.
GET PREPARED
When you have confirmed your project dates we'll send you your Welcome Pack and lots of other helpful information to assist you with preparing for your placement.

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