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Gender Equality & Human Rights Internship in Ecuador
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Promote equality and human rights by joining an organization tackling gender-based violence in Ecuador
Promote equality and human rights by joining an organization that tackles gender-based violence and supports people in situations of human mobility in Ecuador.
This Gender Equality & Human Rights Internship in Ecuador is not for the faint-hearted — it’s for those ready to roll up their sleeves and confront human rights challenges head-on. Whether you’re sparking tough conversations through art and games, navigating the legal system to support survivors, or diving into research that exposes the realities of violence, your work will help break deeply rooted cycles of injustice.
You’ll be part of a passionate local organization that collaborates with public and private institutions to strengthen protection systems, ensure fair legal processes, and give survivors the tools to rebuild their lives. Depending on your background, interests, and Spanish level, you’ll contribute to one of two interconnected programs:
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Promotion of Human Rights, focusing on empowering women survivors of violence and trafficking through workshops, legal and psychological assistance, and advocacy.
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Human Mobility, supporting people affected by displacement and migration through education, psychosocial care, and human rights promotion.
Both programs share the mission of restoring human dignity, promoting gender equality, and raising awareness of human rights across Ecuadorian society. During your orientation, you’ll meet with the local coordinator to determine which program best fits your profile and interests.
Throughout this Human Rights Internship, you’ll help drive initiatives that reshape the landscape of equality and protection for vulnerable communities. Based in Ecuador’s vibrant capital, you’ll have the chance to explore its historic center, connect with local culture, and spend weekends surrounded by breathtaking Andean nature — all while contributing to meaningful, hands-on work that demands creativity, resilience, and a genuine commitment to social change.
Learning Objectives
- Develop skills in human rights advocacy by supporting survivors and individuals in vulnerable situations through legal aid, education, and empowerment initiatives
- Gain experience in case analysis to identify systemic issues affecting marginalized communities and promote justice, protection, and social equity
- Learn to design and implement workshops and awareness campaigns that educate, engage, and empower communities
- Strengthen policy research and recommendation skills to advance inclusive practices and human rights initiatives
ORGANIZATION
Based in Ecuador, this organization promotes gender equality and human rights, weaving its mission around the protection and empowerment of those affected by violence. With a compassionate focus on guiding individuals to recognize their experiences as survivors, it offers the tools to process emotions and transform their narrative from victimhood to resilience. By spreading awareness and providing the knowledge to claim their rights, the organization helps rebuild lives and fortify communities against cycles of violence. Its ultimate vision is a society where every individual can live free from harm, empowered to stand tall and thrive. This initiative shines a vital light on Ecuador’s pressing struggles with violence, inspiring change and hope for a more just future.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Your daily activities will depend on the program you join. Those working with the Promotion of Human Rights initiative may help organize workshops, accompany women to legal or medical appointments, and assist in awareness campaigns. Interns placed with the Human Mobility program may focus on research, educational workshops with communities and institutions, or policy and advocacy projects addressing the rights of migrants and refugees. Your daily responsibilities will depend on the program you join, but all interns play a vital role in supporting the organization’s mission to protect vulnerable communities and promote human rights.
Responsibilities
- Supporting workshops and educational initiatives: Help plan, organize, and facilitate workshops that empower women survivors, migrants, and displaced individuals. Topics may include health, arts, entrepreneurship, conflict resolution, and human rights awareness
- Assisting with legal and psychosocial support: Work alongside professionals to provide case support, observe legal and psychosocial processes, and help ensure fair treatment for survivors and people in human mobility
- Conducting research and analysis: Gather data, support investigations, and help analyze cases to identify trends, systemic challenges, and opportunities for social impact
- Planning and implementing awareness campaigns: Contribute to campaigns that raise community awareness about human rights, gender equality, and the protection of vulnerable populations
- Supporting program coordination and logistics: Assist with scheduling activities, managing resources, and ensuring smooth execution of events and initiatives
- Collaborating with institutions: Help the team liaise with public and private institutions to strengthen human rights protections and implement policy or advocacy initiatives
Requirements
- Academic background or experience in social work, human rights, gender studies, law, psychology, or international development
- Passionate about the advocacy of human rightsÂ
- Empathy to support victims with compassion and understanding
- Wilingness to learn about human rights law
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Capacity to work under pressure
- REQUIRED: Intermediate Spanish skills
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Upon arrival on Friday, you will explore Quito for the weekend with accommodation in a hostel including breakfast. On Sunday, you’ll travel with the team to the project site in the Central Highlands region of Ecuador. During your internship, you’ll stay in a shared room at the Casa Comunal, with up to four people per room and access to communal living spaces and a shared kitchen. The house offers a basic but comfortable setup, with reliable electricity and Wifi, although heating is not available—so pack warm clothing for the cool mountain climate. A family homestay option is available for those seeking more privacy and cultural immersion, at an additional cost. Whether at the volunteer house or with a host family, your accommodation offers a unique opportunity to live within a welcoming rural Andean community and engage deeply with local life.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Prior to your internship, be sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up and obtain any recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. Be mindful of potential altitude sickness due to elevation in the Central Highlands (over 9,000 feet / 2,750 meters), so allow time to acclimatize upon arrival and stay hydrated.
Being based on a rural project site, you will have 24/7 access to the team on the ground in case of any emergency. The team will inform you of any safety guidelines regarding the area and any wildlife/insects to be mindful of.
While interning in this quiet and welcoming Andean town, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings and practice common-sense safety precautions. As a foreigner, it’s important to be respectful of all cultures and local customs, avoid weary flashy clothing or jewelry, and never walk alone at night. Public transport is available but limited in rural areas, so be prepared to coordinate your travel plans in advance with your host or local contacts.
Communication
Communication
Wifi is available at the volunteer house and easily accessible in the closest town, although connection strength can vary. For consistent Internet access, you can also use roaming on your current data plan (which can be costly) or ensure your phone is unlocked for international use to purchase a local SIM or a global e-SIM.
Meals
Meals
Lunch is provided from Monday to Friday, giving you a chance to enjoy freshly prepared local dishes. For breakfast, dinner, and weekend meals, you’ll have access to a shared kitchen at the Casa Comunal, where you can store groceries and cook your own food. Many also choose to travel and eat out on weekends.
Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so we can accommodate your needs during your time in Ecuador.
Location details
Location details
The internship project site is located 20 minutes from Guaranda, in central Ecuador. Sitting at over 9,000 feet in altitude, this remote rural community in the Andes mountains boasts unbeatable daily views. Surrounded by mountains and indigenous culture, the area offers natural beauty, strong community spirit, and nearby excursions to places like Chimborazo volcano, Salinas de Guaranda, and the Andean Cloud Forest. Most of the community identify as indigenous, however, their language is endangered, as many young people leave their culture behind and move to the cities in search of new opportunities.
DATES & RATES
FEE BREAKDOWN
Arrivals are typically the first Friday of each month. Exact arrival date options will be discussed with you upon application. You must arrive on the specified Friday as you will spend the weekend in Quito and travel to the project on Sunday with the team. You will end your internship on a Thursday with transport back to Quito on Friday where you’ll have an exit interview. Flights home or to onward travel can be booked from the Saturday your placement is over.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
4 weeks USD 2,730
6 weeks USD 3,563
8 weeks USD 4,396
10 weeks USD 5,260
12 weeks USD 6,125
Internships longer than 12 weeks are possible - please get in touch for rates.
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a private room in a homestay. If you prefer to stay in a hostel, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Breakfast and dinner daily
- Wifi is available, but the connection can be inconsistent
- Assistance, if needed, with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- An orientation program with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins during your internship
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to/from Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Daily lunch
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Ecuador.
What can I expect from an internship in Ecuador?
You can expect to work on your Spanish language skills while gaining hands-on experience in your preferred field. From exploring diverse ecosystems to engaging with local communities, your stay in Ecuador will provide you with insights into the country’s rich biodiversity, while the challenges and accomplishments that you experience will foster your adaptability and global perspective.
Will I have time to explore the country during my internship?
Yes! There is always time to explore the surrounding area. Our nonprofit partners are based around the country (and on the Galapagos Islands) and they can offer recommendations about which places are the best to visit! When you are based on the mainland, some of the highlights of Ecuador are, for example, the city of Cuenca or the Cotopaxi National Park. If you are based on the Galapagos Islands, there are great excursion options on the island(s) including fantastic diving. If you are keen to also explore the mainland of Ecuador, you will need to do so before or after your Galapagos internship because of the distance (and costs of the flight).
Does an internship in Ecuador qualify for university credit?
Yes, but you must ensure with your university that your supervisor approves this. It is also possible to purchase transfer credits that can be added to your internship.
Will I be paid during my internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any kind of stipend while interning. As your internship with the nonprofit organization will be unpaid, you can check out ways to fund your internship here. The wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth throughout your experience are invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Quito, Ecuador
PROGRAM FOCUS: Human Rights & Female Empowerment
TASK FOCUS: Legal Support, Education, Promotion & Defense of Rights
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,730
HIGHLIGHTS
- Empower survivors of violence
- Develop hands-on experience in the promotion and defense of human rights work
- Elevate your skills in research, advocacy, and communication
- Drive change in local communities through workshops and awareness campaigns
- Live and work in the capital of Ecuador
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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