Associate Director, Asia Media

FULL-TIME VACANCY
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, ASIA MEDIA
Media Division
Multiple Locations Considered
Application Deadline: 14 May, 2026

Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking applicants for the position of Associate Director, Asia Media. We’re looking for someone who’s passionate about getting human rights issues in Asia on news agendas around the world and excited about working with journalists to tell stories that bring about positive change. You will be part of a global team planning the most effective way to raise awareness about human rights issues in more than 90 countries.

The Communications Department at HRW plays a crucial role in advancing human rights worldwide by effectively communicating and publicizing research findings, reports, and human rights abuses. The Media Division contributes to this work by maximizing strategic coverage of HRW’s research on traditional and emerging media platforms.

This is a full-time position that will report to the Communications Director based in New York and will be based in an Asian capital city with a strong media presence such as Bangkok, Singapore, Jakarta, Taipei, or Seoul. The applicant will work closely with colleagues across different time zones especially in Asia, Europe and North America.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overall strategy in getting HRW coverage for Asia-related work in the international, regional, and local media, as well as getting other HRW work placed in Asia-based media.

• Identify opportunities for media and advocacy outreach in Asia based on programmatic interest and advocacy goals; respond to media queries and liaise with media in Asia and assist with general media response during crises;

• Draft and edit pitch materials to reporters, editors, television and podcast producers, newsletter authors, influencers, and other content producers;

• Pitch HRW’s reports, op-eds, and other materials to key media outlets in Asia, foreign correspondents covering the region, and key individuals with influential audiences, such as podcasters, vloggers, newsletter writers, and other influencers;

• Maintain a calendar of key advocacy and news pegs in Asia and follow news developments in the region to identify opportunities for advocacy and media outreach;

• Draft and edit HRW media products to fit house style and prepare for distribution;

• Maintain HRW’s media and influence networks in Asia, through regular meetings with journalists, editors, influencers, content producers, outreach trips, and regular phone and email contact;

• Organize news conferences, media interviews, and briefings for HRW staff;

• Conduct regular research and horizon scanning to ensure HRW is at the cutting edge of communications in the region, and is present on the most influential platforms and channels;

• Serve as thought partner and work with researchers and directors to cultivate relationships with journalists and content producers;

• Work closely with Asia-based communications colleagues to develop and hand over communications products to teams in other time zones, ensuring seamless continuity through a follow-the-sun model.

• Compile monthly analytics for the Comms Department;

• Develop a strategy to grow and amplify HRW’s social media presence in Asia; suggest social media posts to promote Asia-related work;

• Operate in compliance with organizational regulations and rules, including the policies of applicable employee agreements; and

• Carry out any other tasks as required.

Qualifications

Education: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in communications, media, journalism, marketing, human rights, or similar related field is required. An advanced degree is desirable.

Experience: A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience working as a journalist or in close relation to the media is required.

Related Skills and Knowledge:

• Expertise on the media landscape in Asia is required.

• Exceptional oral and written communication skills in English and at least one major Asian language are required.

• Ability to identify and advise the Communications Director/Communications Department in developing and implementing advocacy strategies to seize advocacy opportunities is required.

• Ability to effectively communicate complex human rights developments and the work of HRW is required.

• Initiative and follow through, the capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent writing and editing skills, and a dynamic public speaking ability are required.

• Interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.

• Ability to multi-task effectively, including having good planning and organizing skills and ability to work pressure are required.

• Ability to make sound decisions consistent with functions is required.

• Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human rights law is highly desirable.

Other: Applicants for this role should possess valid work authorization for the location in which they would like to be based, HRW cannot sponsor work authorization for this position.

Salary and Benefits: HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits.

How to Apply: Please apply immediately or by 14 May, 2026 by visiting our online job portal at https://careers.hrw.org/ and attaching a cover letter and a resume or CV, preferably as PDF files. No calls or email inquiries, please. Only complete applications will be reviewed and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application submission, or if you require accommodations during the application process, please email [email protected]. Due to the large response, application submissions via email will not be accepted and inquiries regarding the status of applications will go unanswered.

Human Rights Watch is strong because it is diverse. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Human Rights Watch does not discriminate on the basis of disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. We welcome all kinds of diversity. Our employees include people who are parents and nonparents, the self-taught and university educated, and from a wide span of socio-economic backgrounds and perspectives on the world. Human Rights Watch is an equal opportunity employer.

Human Rights Watch is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization known for its in-depth investigations, its incisive and timely reporting, its innovative and high-profile advocacy campaigns, and its success in changing the human rights-related policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions.