Amnesty International Regional Researcher, SARO Job 2026 | Human Rights Research Opportunity
Amnesty International is seeking an experienced human rights researcher for the position of Regional Researcher, SARO. This opportunity is suitable for professionals with expertise in human rights research, political analysis, advocacy strategy and investigative reporting.
The successful candidate will lead research initiatives, investigate human rights concerns, analyse political developments and develop strategies to support human rights protection across the region.
The role also involves engaging with governments, civil society organisations, international institutions and other stakeholders to advance Amnesty International’s human rights objectives.
Interested candidates should review the official vacancy announcement and submit their applications through Amnesty International’s recruitment portal.
Job Overview
- Job Title: Regional Researcher, SARO
- Organisation: Amnesty International
- Job Category: Human Rights, Research and Advocacy
- Region: Southern Africa Regional Office (SARO)
- Experience Required: At least seven years of human rights or related research experience
- Application Deadline: Refer to the official vacancy page for the current closing date.
About Amnesty International
Amnesty International is a global human rights movement with more than 10 million people campaigning for a world in which everyone enjoys their human rights.
The organisation conducts independent research, advocates for justice and holds decision-makers accountable for human rights abuses. Its work includes investigating violations, publishing reports, engaging with governments and mobilising public support for human rights protection.
Amnesty International aims to promote freedom, equality, justice and respect for human rights worldwide.
Key Responsibilities
1. Research Strategy and Programme Development
The Regional Researcher will lead the development and implementation of research and campaigning strategies aligned with agreed regional priorities.
Responsibilities include identifying effective approaches to addressing human rights concerns, designing research projects, developing implementation plans and monitoring outcomes.
2. Human Rights Research and Analysis
The successful candidate will monitor political and human rights developments, conduct investigations and provide timely, accurate and impartial assessments of the human rights situation in the region.
This includes analysing complex issues and preparing evidence-based advice to inform Amnesty International’s research, advocacy and campaigning work.
3. Field Research and Investigations
The role involves participating in and leading field missions to gather information, verify evidence and assess human rights concerns.
The researcher may also prepare political briefings, security assessments and other mission documentation, particularly when responding to emergencies or rapidly developing situations.
4. Advocacy and External Representation
The Regional Researcher will represent Amnesty International in engagements with government officials, intergovernmental organisations, civil society groups, the media and other stakeholders.
They will communicate the organisation’s findings, positions and campaign strategies to internal and external audiences.
5. Report Writing and Stakeholder Engagement
The position requires producing comprehensive research reports and other materials for publication and internal use.
The researcher will also build and maintain networks of human rights defenders, legal professionals, United Nations agencies, government representatives and other contacts to strengthen information gathering and advocacy.
Qualifications and Experience
Applicants should have at least seven years of proven experience conducting research on human rights or related issues.
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Specialist knowledge and preferably first-hand experience of at least one country in the region.
- A strong understanding of political, social, legal, economic and cultural issues affecting human rights.
- Excellent political judgement, analytical skills and diplomacy.
- Experience representing an organisation to external stakeholders.
- Proven report-writing skills for different audiences.
- The ability to communicate research findings through written materials and digital channels.
- Fluency in English and at least one other regional language, both orally and in writing.
Applicants should be able to prepare substantial research reports, government correspondence, media materials and other advocacy documents.
Employee Benefits
Amnesty International offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support employees undertaking its human rights work.
According to the organisation’s general benefits information, benefits include 37 days of annual leave inclusive of public holidays and grace days, a pension scheme, an employee assistance programme and life assurance.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should review the full job description and submit their applications through Amnesty International’s official recruitment platform.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Applicants are encouraged to prepare a CV and supporting application materials demonstrating their human rights research experience, regional expertise, analytical abilities and advocacy skills.
Important: The organisation reserves the right to close the vacancy before the advertised deadline if it receives a high number of applications or its recruitment priorities change. Check the official vacancy page for the latest status.
Final Thoughts
The Regional Researcher, SARO position offers an opportunity for an experienced researcher to contribute to human rights investigations, regional analysis and advocacy initiatives.
Professionals with strong research skills, regional knowledge, political judgement and a commitment to human rights should review the selection criteria and consider applying through the official recruitment portal.
