Law and Human Rights Internships and Work-Experience Overseas in Ethiopia

The experience that you will gain while volunteering on the Law and Human Rights project in Ethiopia will undoubtedly improve your CV. This applies whether you are a gap-year student looking to study law at university or a law graduate looking to gain some practical work experience in Law or Human Rights. Your precise role will be determined by your knowledge of law and level of interest in specific areas. International law experience is certainly something that all law firms will be pleased to see when recruiting trainees and new partners.

The people of Ethiopia have experienced much turmoil ranging from the deposition of the famous and popular Halie Selassie through seasons of starvation and drought to many years of ethnic and tribal conflict. Today there are still many vulnerable groups of people in Ethiopia that need assistance at the most basic level. Many local and international organisations are working to improve the situation of the poor, repressed and vulnerable within the country and Projects Abroad volunteers are assisting Law and Human Rights Associations in a variety of hands on initiatives.

Volunteering on a Law and Human Rights Internship in Ethiopia

Depending on your own educational level and personal interests there are various different opportunities in Ethiopia for you to get involved on a Law and Human Rights project.

Most of the Law and Human Rights Associations that we work with are located 3000 metres above sea level in Addis Ababa, often referred to as "the capital of Africa" due to its historical, political and diplomatic significance. A placement on this project offers a unique opportunity for legal work and a special cultural experience for anyone interested in the field of law and human rights.

In order to take part on this project, volunteers need to offer some level of expertise - whether it be a law, economics, psychology, sociology or any related social sciences degree, or practical experience such as community work. Please let us know your past experiences and qualifications so we can find a role most suited to you. The local lawyers are keen to share their knowledge with you and benefit from your particular experience.

Volunteers can choose which areas they would like to focus upon, including work to improve human rights education in local communities, raising awareness so that ordinary Ethiopian people understand their rights, and what protection they are legally entitled to in certain situations. Volunteers can also assist with educational or promotional campaigns, refugee and prison monitoring, policy amendments, and general support of vulnerable people - such as women and children. The civil, economic and social rights of women, children, prisoners and refugees in Ethiopia have improved in recent times but there is still a long way to go.

In order for both you and our partner Law and Human Rights Associations to get the most out of the experience, this project is only available to volunteers who can commit to a minimum of two months. The Law and Human Rights Associations that we work with are professional organisations. You may sometimes have deadlines or you may be asked to represent the organisation at meetings and other events. There is plenty for you to become involved with and you will definitely be kept busy. Your work will be important for the growth of law and human rights in East Africa.