The internship offers an excellent learning opportunity for recent graduates seeking practical experience in human rights advocacy, access to justice, social accountability, good governance, extractive governance, peacebuilding, and project management.
Job Summary
- Employer: Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP)
- Job Type: Internship
- Location: Karonga, Malawi
- Category: Human Rights
- Salary: Unpaid
- Closing Date: 2026-10-23
Key Responsibilities
- Project Support: Assist in planning, organizing, and executing project activities, including community sensitization, training, and stakeholder consultations.
- Community Engagement: Assist field officers in liaising with community structures, women’s and youth groups, and local authorities.
- Case Management: Assist in conflict analysis and mediation involving natural resources, land disputes, witchcraft accusations, chieftaincy wrangles, and political conflicts.
- Research and Monitoring: Support data collection, field monitoring, and the drafting of summary reports on human rights, governance, and social justice issues.
- Documentation and Reporting: Assist in drafting activity reports, success stories, press releases, and meeting minutes.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Human Rights, Gender, Social Work, Humanities, or a related field.
- Fluency in English. Knowledge of local languages will be an added advantage.
- Computer literacy, particularly in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Willingness to travel to rural areas.
- Commitment to Catholic Social Teaching.
Salary
Unpaid
How to Apply
About the Company
The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) is a Malawian non-governmental organization established in 1992 under the Episcopal Conference of Malawi. Operating from its headquarters in Lilongwe with regional offices across the country, CCJP Malawi works to promote human rights, social justice, and democratic governance through civic education, election monitoring, and advocacy for marginalized communities. The organization is particularly recognized for its paralegal services in rural areas, land rights advocacy, and documentation of human rights violations. CCJP Malawi also engages in peacebuilding initiatives and conflict resolution, often collaborating with government bodies and international partners to strengthen the rule of law and accountable governance within the country.
Promoting human dignity, justice and peace for all in Malawi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a Justice and Peace Desk Intern at CCJP?
Most CCJP internships require a diploma or bachelor's degree in law, human rights, social work, or theology from a recognized Malawian institution. Practical experience through university attachments or volunteer work with community-based organizations strengthens your application significantly.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of this internship?
Interns assist with documenting human rights violations, supporting community mediation sessions, and preparing reports for church and government stakeholders. You will also help organize civic education workshops in rural parishes and maintain case files for the justice and peace desk.
How does the work culture at CCJP and similar Malawian NGOs differ from private sector jobs?
CCJP operates within the Catholic Church structure, so the environment emphasizes service, community presence, and patience with bureaucratic church and government processes. Punctuality is valued, but flexibility is often needed when traveling to remote dioceses with poor road infrastructure.
What career progression paths exist after completing this internship?
Successful interns may advance to project officer roles at CCJP or other faith-based organizations, or transition to human rights positions with NGOs like CHREAA or the Malawi Human Rights Commission. Some pursue further studies in law or development to qualify for program manager or advocacy coordinator positions.
What benefits should I expect as an intern at CCJP in Malawi?
CCJP typically provides modest stipends for transport and lunch, though amounts vary by diocese and funding availability. Interns rarely receive formal medical aid or pension benefits, but gain substantial networking opportunities and field experience that proves valuable for future employment.
How do I apply for this position, and what do Malawian employers like CCJP look for in candidates?
Submit your application through the Episcopal Conference of Malawi secretariat or directly to your local diocesan CCJP office with a cover letter, CV, and references from academic or church leaders. Employers prioritize demonstrated commitment to social justice, active church involvement, and willingness to work in underserved rural areas.