How to Be a Human Rights Worker

A human right is something you're entitled to just for being human. You deserve to live in safety wherever you are, free from unjust arrest and torture, for example. These rights extend to women, children, the elderly, the disabled and minorities. Generally human rights workers deal with violations from the state against its people. There are many ways you can get involved.

Instructions

1. Learn what it means to violate a human right. Read the International Bill of Human Rights to understand the global standards.

2. Follow human rights issues in the news. A great place to start is the Human Rights Watch website. You can check out stories by country or issue.

3. Decide what causes speak to you. The International Bill of Human Rights is a place to start. It lists things like slavery, torture and promotion of intolerance. Some places suffer from abuses that others don't, so this will help focus your work efforts.

4. Think about how you want to help. Intimate contact with human rights work involves volunteering your time and effort in a campaign, protest or fundraiser, for instance. You can also donate money to causes that support human rights if you don't have the time to spare.

5. Get involved with Amnesty International. They've been fighting for human rights globally since 1961. Their campaigns include advocacy for women's rights, protest against torture and alleviation of poverty.

6. Visit the Idealist website to find out about work other organizations are doing. Once you've identified which causes move you and how you want to get involved, you should focus on them. It's easier to commit to human rights work when you do it your way.

7. Check out local organizations to find out about opportunities here at home because human rights are being violated here as well as abroad. Try to balance your work geographically to get the most satisfaction.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember there are two sides to every human rights issue so don't let yourself be manipulated.

Resources

• Read the International Bill of Human Rights.
• Keep up to date on global human rights issues here.
• Join an Amnesty International campaign.
• Discover other work opportunities on Idealist.