Apply for the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission Internship 2026 and Earn $1,000 Per Month: Exciting opportunity

If you are passionate about international human rights, U.S. foreign policy, and legislative advocacy, this is your opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the heart of Congress. The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission Internship—also known as the Eleanor Roosevelt Human Rights Internship Program—offers a prestigious, full-time placement in Washington, D.C., along with a $1,000 per month stipend .

This highly respected internship places students directly within the Democratic staff offices of the Commission in the U.S. House of Representatives, where they contribute to advancing global human rights initiatives.

About the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission

The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission is a bipartisan body of the U.S. House of Representatives dedicated to promoting, defending, and advocating for internationally recognized human rights. Named after Congressman Tom Lantos—the only Holocaust survivor ever elected to Congress—the Commission works to ensure that human dignity remains central to U.S. foreign policy and global engagement.

Through hearings, briefings, public statements, and collaboration with lawmakers, civil society organizations, and international partners, the Commission addresses urgent human rights issues worldwide. Interns become part of this impactful work, gaining direct exposure to congressional advocacy and policymaking.

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Internship Overview

The Eleanor Roosevelt Human Rights Internship Program runs three times per year and is designed as a semester-length, full-time opportunity. Interns work 40 hours per week in Washington, D.C., supporting the Commission’s Democratic staff.

This internship is ideal for upper-level undergraduate, graduate, or law students who are deeply interested in:

• Human rights advocacy
• International relations
• Public policy
• U.S. Congress and legislative processes
• Foreign policy

The program provides a structured and professional environment where interns are treated as contributing members of the team.

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Stipend and Academic Credit

One of the most attractive aspects of this internship is its paid structure. The Commission offers a $1,000 per month stipend to one intern per trimester through the House’s paid internship program .

In addition, the Commission collaborates with academic institutions to help students receive academic credit where applicable. This ensures that interns can integrate their real-world congressional experience into their formal education.

Key Responsibilities

Interns play an active role in supporting the Commission’s daily operations and advocacy efforts. Responsibilities may include:

• Conducting research on country-specific and thematic human rights issues
• Drafting briefing memos and background materials
• Assisting with the preparation and execution of congressional hearings
• Monitoring global human rights developments
• Supporting outreach and communications initiatives
• Engaging with civil society organizations and advocacy groups

Because the Commission frequently hosts hearings and briefings on pressing global issues, interns gain valuable insight into how Congress responds to international human rights crises.

Who Should Apply?

The program seeks motivated, high-achieving students who demonstrate both academic excellence and a commitment to human rights. Preferred applicants typically have backgrounds in:

• International relations
• Political science
• Law
• Public policy
• Human rights studies
• Global affairs

Applicants should also demonstrate:

• A strong interest in U.S. foreign policy and international human rights
• Professionalism and discretion in a congressional environment
• Excellent research and writing skills
• Authorization to work in the United States

Prior experience in the human rights field is advantageous but not mandatory. What matters most is a genuine dedication to advancing justice and dignity worldwide.

Why This Internship Stands Out

Interning with the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission is more than a résumé booster—it is an immersive experience in legislative advocacy at the highest level. Few internships provide such direct exposure to congressional strategy, bipartisan collaboration, and international engagement.

Interns leave the program with:

• Practical experience in policy research and legislative processes
• Professional connections within Congress and the human rights community
• Strong analytical and writing skills
• A deeper understanding of global human rights advocacy

For students considering careers in government, international organizations, law, nonprofit advocacy, or diplomacy, this internship provides a powerful foundation.

Professional Development Opportunities

Beyond day-to-day responsibilities, interns benefit from being physically present on Capitol Hill. They may have opportunities to:

• Attend congressional briefings and hearings
• Participate in policy discussions
• Engage with lawmakers and staff
• Observe how bipartisan human rights initiatives are developed

This exposure gives interns a behind-the-scenes look at how policy decisions are shaped and how advocacy translates into legislative action.

Application Process

Interested candidates should prepare a complete application package that typically includes:

• A cover letter expressing interest and qualifications
• An updated résumé
• Relevant academic or professional documentation

Applications are submitted electronically, and candidates should carefully follow the instructions provided on the official internship announcement page. Because the program is competitive, applicants are encouraged to submit well-crafted materials that clearly demonstrate their commitment to human rights and public service.

Take the Next Step in Your Human Rights Career

If you are ready to gain real-world experience advancing international human rights from Capitol Hill—and earn $1,000 per month while doing so—the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission Internship is an opportunity you should not miss.

This program offers the rare combination of meaningful impact, congressional exposure, and financial support. For aspiring human rights advocates, policy professionals, and future leaders, it is a chance to transform passion into action—right at the center of American legislative power.