Empowering Change: The Amnesty International Digital Forensics Fellowship

In an era where digital threats loom large over human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society organizations, the need for specialized training in digital forensics has never been more critical. Amnesty Tech is stepping up to meet this demand with its Digital Forensics Fellowship (DFF), a part-time program designed to equip participants with the necessary skills to combat digital attacks and enhance resilience against surveillance. This fellowship not only provides training but also fosters a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to protecting human rights in the digital age.

Application Deadline

For those interested in applying, the deadline is set for 3:59 PM UK time on January 23, 2025. This is a crucial date for aspiring fellows to keep in mind as they prepare their applications.

Overview of the Digital Forensics Fellowship

The Digital Forensics Fellowship is a unique opportunity for human rights defenders, journalists, and technologists from around the globe. The program runs from April to July 2025 and combines both in-person and remote training sessions. Participants will receive a stipend of £500 per month, totaling £2,000 over the fellowship’s duration. The primary aim is to empower fellows with advanced digital forensics skills, enabling them to effectively investigate and respond to digital threats targeting civil society.

Who is Eligible?

The fellowship is open to individuals working in the following fields:

• Human Rights Defense: Those actively engaged in advocating for human rights and social justice.
• Journalism: Journalists who report on sensitive issues and require skills to protect their work and sources.
• Technology in Civil Society: Technologists who support civil society organizations in their missions.

Selection Criteria

To apply, candidates must demonstrate:

• A solid understanding of the technical threats and challenges faced by human rights defenders and journalists in their local contexts.
• A keen interest in investigating digital attacks and enhancing resilience against surveillance.
• Familiarity with command line tools and basic scripting languages such as Bash and Python.
• An understanding of internet infrastructure, including IP addresses, TLS certificates, and DNS queries.
• Technical familiarity with GNU/Linux operating systems, as well as Android and iPhone systems.
• Proficiency in English, as it is the primary language of instruction for the fellowship.

Selection Process

The selection of fellows will be based on:

• The motivation and interest expressed in the cover letter.
• The ability to meet essential technical requirements and familiarity with digital forensics tools.
• Performance in the application process, which includes a recorded video interview during the week of February 10, 2025, followed by a panel interview via Microsoft Teams during the week of March 3, 2025.

Global Reach

One of the most appealing aspects of the Digital Forensics Fellowship is its global eligibility. Applicants from all countries are encouraged to apply, reflecting Amnesty Tech’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in addressing human rights issues worldwide.

Benefits of the Fellowship

The Digital Forensics Fellowship offers numerous benefits, including:

• A monthly stipend of £500, providing financial support during the fellowship.
• Comprehensive training in digital forensics and investigation techniques, equipping fellows with the skills needed to navigate complex digital landscapes.
• Collaboration opportunities with Amnesty Tech’s Security Lab and a cohort of peers, fostering a supportive network of professionals dedicated to human rights.
• The chance to build resilience against digital attacks and surveillance, enhancing the capacity of civil society organizations to operate safely and effectively.

Duration of the Fellowship

The fellowship will last for 3 to 4 months, from April to July 2025, providing ample time for participants to engage deeply with the training and apply their new skills in real-world contexts.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their applications through Amnesty International’s recruitment system (eArcu). Required documents include:

• A recent CV in PDF, Word, PowerPoint, or Excel format.
• A cover letter detailing motivation, interest in the fellowship, and how they meet the essential requirements.

Application Process

After the initial application review, shortlisted candidates will participate in a recorded video interview, followed by final interviews with a panel. This structured process ensures that the most qualified and passionate individuals are selected for the fellowship.

Conclusion

The Amnesty International Digital Forensics Fellowship represents a vital opportunity for those committed to defending human rights in an increasingly digital world. By equipping participants with essential skills and fostering a collaborative environment, this fellowship aims to strengthen the global movement for human rights and justice. If you are a human rights defender, journalist, or technologist eager to enhance your capabilities and make a meaningful impact, consider applying before the deadline on January 23, 2025. Together, we can build a safer digital future for all.