The Secretariat of ProtectDefenders.eu is looking for a motivated and committed Programmes Fellow to join our Programmes and Partnerships team in Brussels.
Reporting to the Grants and Coordination Officer and working in close coordination with the Head of Programmes and Partnerships, the Fellow will play a key frontline role in supporting Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) at risk. The position focuses on monitoring and assessing incoming requests for support, conducting initial eligibility assessments, guiding applicants through protection pathways, and ensuring timely referrals within the ProtectDefenders.eu ecosystem.
The Fellow will contribute to case follow-up, database management, internal coordination, and programme analysis, helping ensure that HRDs and at-risk communities receive appropriate, timely, and effective support.
We are looking for candidates with a background in law, human rights, international relations, social sciences, or related fields, and a demonstrated interest in protection work or programme coordination in human rights or humanitarian contexts. Strong analytical skills, sound judgement, discretion in handling sensitive information, and excellent drafting abilities are essential. Fluency in English and at least one of the following languages is required: Spanish, French, Arabic, or Russian.
Start date: Preferably 1 April 2026
Location: Brussels (candidates must be based in Belgium and hold a valid work permit)
Contract: 6-month CIP contract (renewable up to 12 months)
Please send your CV and cover letter (please include information about your availability and confirm that you have a valid work permit) before 6 March 2026 by email at recruit@protectdefenders.eu with the subject: ‘SP Fellow – Your surname’.
If you are committed to the protection of human rights defenders and want to contribute to a dynamic, multicultural team working at the heart of the EU human rights protection mechanism, we encourage you to apply.
Download the full vacancy here:
