Research Officer – Sabbatical Cover at Amnesty International
| Location | NAIROBI, Kenya |
| Date Posted | July 5, 2025 |
| Category |
Administration
Communication Data Entry Education / Teaching Secretary |
| Job Type |
Full-time
|
| Currency | KES |
Description
Amnesty Kenya was founded in 2002 and operates with specific goals and objectives for improving lives and upholding human rights for the citizens of Kenya and the surrounding areas. These initiatives include, but are not limited to: Right to Adequate Housing and Safety in Impoverished Neighborhoods Sexual and Gender Based Violence Education on Improving…
Researc
Responsibilities
- Co-ordinate research, monitor, investigate and analyse political, legal, and social developments and human rights conditions, provide authoritative advice, and write human rights action materials.
- Conduct policy analysis and research on issues related to data governance, digital rights, and the intersection of technology and human rights.
- Develop reports, briefs, and position papers to inform advocacy and policy discussions.
- Contribute to communication, research and growth activities through the production and distribution of program outputs, reports, and other documents, including drafting, formatting, editing/proofreading, distribution of statements, memorandums, press releases and other outputs.
- Engage directly with rights holders, coordinating engagement activities such as presentations, focus groups and workshops with target communities, including expert groups and marginalized communities.
- Perform other tasks as may be reasonably assigned.
EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS
ESSENTIAL
- Commitment to Amnesty values and objectives.
- At least a first degree in law or a human rights discipline.
- At least two years of human rights research or relevant program experience.
- Demonstrated ability to package research outputs into usable products for diverse public audiences.
- Demonstrated understanding of digital rights, data governance and data protection.
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to draft and proofread research, communication and campaign materials tailored to the appropriate audience.
- Strong research and report writing skills.
- Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
- Strong organisational, planning, and administrative skills.
Don't Keep Share!
Applying Instructions
RESEARCH OFFICER – SABBATICAL COVER
JOB TITLE: Research Officer – Sabbatical Cover
GRADE: Officer Level 1
LOCATION: Nairobi, Kenya
START DATE: 1st August 2025
DEPARTMENT: Technology and Human Rights
DURATION: 1-year fixed-term contract (Sabbatical Cover)
REPORTS TO: Technology and Human Rights Manager.
POSTS THAT THIS JOB MANAGES: None
JOB PURPOSE
The purpose of this job is to research violations of fundamental freedoms, civil and political rights, and economic, social, and cultural rights in line with Amnesty Kenya’s Strategic Framework 2024-2028. Amnesty International Kenya is committed to data-driven advocacy and campaigns. This assignment also supports the delivery of policy and research projects under Amnesty Kenya’s technology and human rights program. The successful candidate will join our Technology & Human Rights team, working to strengthen data governance in Kenya and on digital rights for children and young people.
Background
Amnesty International Kenya is an integral part of a global movement of more than 10 million people who take injustice personally. Registered in Kenya and affiliated with Amnesty International, the organisation has been at the forefront of promoting and protecting human rights for all.
Guided by our new Strategic Framework 2024-2028, Amnesty International Kenya believes in a society where every human being understands and claims their rights and freedoms. We exist to enable circles of conscience and movements capable of advancing full citizenship rights for all and an effective and accountable state.
Together with our national board, supporters, members, and partners from both civil society and the state, we will create an activist culture that strengthens public expression, association, and peaceful assembly, and reduces discriminatory inequalities, corruption, and impunity at national and county levels.
All applicants for this position will be required to demonstrate a commitment to Amnesty’s organisational values and vision, as well as the Kenyan Constitution, and be familiar with rights-based organising, citizen empowerment, and an anti-discriminatory approach to social justice. In addition, all successful candidates will have demonstrated the ability to work in teams and a proven ability to multitask and meet deadlines, often under pressure.
KEY RELATIONSHIPS
Executive Director, Campaign Managers, Campaign Officers, Communications Unit, and key International Secretariat (IS) staff in the Research and Law and Policy Programme Teams.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
The Research Officer will:
- Co-ordinate research, monitor, investigate and analyse political, legal, and social developments and human rights conditions, provide authoritative advice, and write human rights action materials.
- Conduct policy analysis and research on issues related to data governance, digital rights, and the intersection of technology and human rights.
- Develop reports, briefs, and position papers to inform advocacy and policy discussions.
- Contribute to communication, research and growth activities through the production and distribution of program outputs, reports, and other documents, including drafting, formatting, editing/proofreading, distribution of statements, memorandums, press releases and other outputs.
- Engage directly with rights holders, coordinating engagement activities such as presentations, focus groups and workshops with target communities, including expert groups and marginalized communities.
- Perform other tasks as may be reasonably assigned.
EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS
ESSENTIAL
- Commitment to Amnesty values and objectives.
- At least a first degree in law or a human rights discipline.
- At least two years of human rights research or relevant program experience.
- Demonstrated ability to package research outputs into usable products for diverse public audiences.
- Demonstrated understanding of digital rights, data governance and data protection.
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to draft and proofread research, communication and campaign materials tailored to the appropriate audience.
- Strong research and report writing skills.
- Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
- Strong organisational, planning, and administrative skills.
DESIRABLE
- Experience working in an NGO human rights context.
- Experience in participating in a research campaign through the complete campaign lifecycle (issue identification, strategy development, campaign delivery, monitoring, campaign exit and impact assessment).
EQUALITY STATEMENT
Equality and diversity are at the core of our values. Staff are expected to work collectively and individually to promote a constructive and sensitive approach to others from a variety of backgrounds, where the work of others is valued and respected. We do not discriminate based on your gender, age, ethnicity, disability, class, sexual preference or any other identity
No Fee Charged and Your Right to Privacy
Amnesty International does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, or training). Amnesty International Kenya also does not share your applications or information with any third parties without your consent.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Public or other activity, affiliation to or support for any group or organization, personal association or other factor which may generate a real or perceived conflict of interest with Amnesty International’s principles (specifically independence and impartiality), or raise a security concern, or otherwise prevent the candidate from carrying out key functions of the specific post and would therefore disqualify the candidate from being appointed.
All applications must be received before or on Friday 11th July 2025 by 2359 hours (EAT).
Work With Us
If you are talented and passionate about human rights, then Amnesty International Kenya wants to hear from you.
© 2025 Amnesty Kenya