Researcher, China

Researcher, China – Asia Division

Full‑time position seeking a researcher to investigate, analyze, and advocate against human rights abuses in China. Application deadline: 14 July 2026. Multiple locations considered.

This position reports to the Deputy Asia Director and will preferably be located within commuting distance of one of HRW’s offices, though other countries within Asia may be considered.

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. Assist the Director of the Division and HRW’s Development and Global Initiative Department in conducting fundraising, when needed.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Liaise effectively with HRW staff located in multiple locations worldwide to ensure effective coordination and delivery of activities.
9. Travel internationally, as required.
10. Deliver outputs in a timely manner and consistent with the agreed strategy and priorities of the Asia division.
11. Perform other tasks, as may be required.

Qualifications

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

Experience: A minimum of five years of professional‑level experience working on China is required. Experience working in or knowledge of China’s civil society, media, social media and government policies is preferred.

Related Skills and Knowledge

1. Ability to identify, research, analyze and effectively communicate important human‑rights developments in China is required.
2. Ability to conduct interviews safely remotely and in‑person with a wide range of people, including victims and witnesses, is required. Ability to conduct research through open‑sourced investigation techniques is preferred.
3. Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human‑rights law are required.
4. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Mandarin are required.
5. Ability to research abuses related to technology and/or those in the Tibetan areas is preferred.
6. Initiative and follow‑through, capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent editing skills, and dynamic public‑speaking skills are required.
7. Interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.
8. Ability to multi‑task effectively, including strong planning and organizing skills, and ability to work under pressure are required.
9. Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events is required.

Salary and Benefits

HRW offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including relocation assistance and immigration support when required. HRW encourages applicants of all nationalities to apply.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Human Rights Watch is an equal‑opportunity employer. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. HRW does not discriminate on the basis of disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record.