CIVICUS Research Internship 2026 – Part‑Time Remote Position for Social Science Students

CIVICUS, a global alliance of over 17,000 members in more than 180 countries, is seeking a part‑time Research Intern to support its research and communications work. This remote internship offers an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates in social sciences to gain hands‑on experience in desk research, interviews, writing for publication, and creating visuals for social media.

The intern will contribute to the CIVICUS Lens platform, the State of Civil Society Report, and thematic reports. If you are looking for similar opportunities, explore fully funded scholarships in South Africa for international students.

About CIVICUS

CIVICUS exists to defend people power. As a growing global alliance of over 17,000 members in over 180 countries, CIVICUS works together to monitor violations of basic civic freedoms, call out perpetrators of violations, and strengthen the power of people to organize by supporting a more accountable, effective, and innovative civil society. The organization strives to promote excluded voices, especially from the global south.

Internship Overview

• Position: Research Intern (Part‑Time)

• Location: Remote (virtual team)

• Type: Part‑time internship

• Possible Start Date: 1 July 2026

• Application Deadline: 18 May 2026 (11:59 PM SAST)

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Key Responsibilities

• Conduct desk research and interviews

• Produce text for articles published on the CIVICUS Lens platform

• Contribute to the State of Civil Society Report and thematic reports

• Create simple visuals for social media dissemination of research outputs

• Gain research and communications experience while deepening knowledge of civil society trends

Key Requirements

• Degree in any of the social sciences or other relevant field, or near completion of studies towards such a degree

• Fluency in English required; other UN languages desirable

• Excellent writing skills

• Strong interest in working in the field of civil society

• Commitment to CIVICUS’ vision, mission, values, and ways of working

• Inclination and ability to work as part of a diverse, multicultural virtual team

• Well‑organized, able to work independently, deliver within deadlines, and high attention to detail

For applicants interested in other remote or international internships, see financial aids for students in Africa.

How to Apply

Step 1: Visit the CIVICUS careers portal at https://civicus.bamboohr.com/careers (click here to apply).

Step 2: Prepare your application documents:

• A full CV (including educational and professional qualifications, full employment history, significant positions, responsibilities held, and relevant achievements)

• A cover note of not more than one page outlining your motivation for applying for the role

Important: Do not use autofill when completing the application form. Fill out the form manually to avoid errors.

Step 3: Submit your application before the deadline.

Application Deadline

18 May 2026 (11:59 PM SAST) – late applications will not be considered.

Selection Process

• Short‑listed candidates will be contacted 2 weeks after the closing date to schedule interviews.

• Possible starting date: 1 July 2026.

• If you do not hear from CIVICUS within three weeks of the deadline, you have not been shortlisted for the next steps. CIVICUS will update all applicants once the position has been filled.

Note: CIVICUS reserves the right to withdraw any of its vacancies at any time.

Why Apply for This Internship?

• Global exposure – Work with a leading international civil society alliance

• Remote flexibility – Work from anywhere with an internet connection

• Research experience – Contribute to real publications and reports

• Skill development – Gain writing, research, and visual content creation skills

• Meaningful mission – Support excluded voices and defend civic freedoms

Final Thoughts

The CIVICUS Research Internship is a great opportunity for social science students or recent graduates who are passionate about civil society, human rights, and global justice. With remote work, part‑time hours, and hands‑on research and writing experience, this internship can launch your career in the non‑profit or international development sector. The deadline is 18 May 2026. Apply now through the CIVICUS careers portal.

For a complete list of open internships and scholarships in Africa, visit list of all open scholarships in Africa.

Apply Now for CIVICUS Research Internship