Researcher Myanmar

About the Role

The Asia Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) seeks a full-time Researcher, Myanmar to investigate, analyze, and advocate against human rights abuses in Myanmar and related regional issues. The Researcher will develop and implement a research and advocacy agenda on human rights issues related to Myanmar. This position reports to a Deputy Asia Director and is based preferably in Thailand, although other locations in Southeast Asia may be considered. The role is remote and expected to start in September 2026. Application deadline: 30 June, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Research, monitor and document the human rights situation in Myanmar and neighboring countries related to Myanmar, using information from governments, media, academia, NGOs, victims, witnesses, journalists, diplomats, security forces and others, including the situation of Rohingya and other refugees.
• Write and publicize reports, briefing papers, letters, news releases, op-eds, and submissions to international bodies; collect supporting materials such as photographs and videos.
• Lead development and implementation of local, regional, and international strategies to change abusive laws, policies, and practices in Myanmar.
• Respond to queries from media, public, and colleagues and proactively project concerns in public debates.
• Place abuses within broader political, social and economic contexts and present concerns to government officials, opinion leaders, inter-governmental agencies, and the media.
• Work closely with NGOs and local human rights organizations to ensure HRW's work complements and enhances local efforts without jeopardizing their security.
• Assist the Asia Division and HRW’s Development and Global Initiative Department in conducting fundraising.
• Liaise with HRW staff in multiple locations to ensure effective coordination and delivery of activities.
• Travel internationally as required and deliver outputs in a timely manner consistent with Asia Division strategy and priorities.
• Carry out other tasks as required.

Qualifications

• Education: Advanced degree or equivalent experience in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or related fields.
• Experience: Minimum five years of professional-level experience working in or on Myanmar, with experience in human rights documentation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Burmese.
• Significant knowledge of human rights and politics in Myanmar and strong understanding of regional dimensions of the human rights and humanitarian crisis; familiarity with refugee situations desirable.
• Ability to identify, prioritize, research, analyze and effectively communicate important developments in a rigorous, timely and sophisticated fashion.
• Ability to conduct interviews safely (remotely and in-person) with a wide range of people, including victims and witnesses; experience with open source investigations desired.
• Ability to produce high-quality written materials under tight deadlines and to work flexible hours to accommodate other time zones.
• Knowledge of and experience working in human rights and familiarity with international human rights law; familiarity with international humanitarian law desirable.
• Initiative, follow-through, creative and strategic thinking under pressure, strong planning and organizing skills, and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively within HRW and with external partners.

Skills / Required Skills

• Excellent written and oral communication in English and Burmese, including experience with media interviews and public messaging.
• Research and analytical skills to collect, verify and synthesize diverse sources of information.
• Ability to develop and implement advocacy strategies and engage with governmental and inter-governmental actors.
• Experience with open source investigation and safe interview techniques desirable.

Benefits

HRW offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits.

Additional Information

• How to apply: Apply by 30 June, 2026 via HRW's online job portal at careers.hrw.org by submitting a cover letter and CV/resume. No calls or email inquiries; only complete applications will be reviewed and only shortlisted candidates contacted.
• If experiencing technical difficulties or requiring a disability-related accommodation, email recruitment@hrw.org. Application submissions via email are not accepted.
• Human Rights Watch actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and does not discriminate on the basis of disability, age, gender identity and expression, nationality, or other protected characteristics.