The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) has opened applications for its Investigations and Conflict Resolution Internship Programme 2026. This opportunity is aimed at unemployed South African law graduates who want to gain practical experience within a constitutional institution.
This is a 24-month paid internship that offers structured exposure to investigations, dispute resolution, and public-sector legal processes, making it ideal for graduates interested in governance, constitutional law, and regulatory work.
About the CRL Rights Commission Internship Programme
The internship is hosted within the Investigations and Conflict Resolution Unit, where interns will be involved in work aligned with constitutional governance, oversight, and legal compliance at municipal and community levels.
The programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic legal training and practical public-sector experience. Interns are supported through structured tasks that develop investigative, analytical, and administrative legal skills.
Internship Programme Details
Programme Name: Investigations and Conflict Resolution Internship
Reference Number: CRL/2026/2
Department: Investigations and Conflict Resolution
Number of Positions: 4
Contract Duration: 24 months
Monthly Stipend: R10 106.21
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered:
An LLB degree or an equivalent NQF Level 8 qualification with 480 credits, recognised by SAQA
South African citizenship
Unemployed graduate status
Between the ages of 25 and 40 years
Only candidates who fully meet these requirements should apply.
Key Responsibilities and Exposure
Interns appointed to the programme will gain hands-on experience in various areas of public-sector legal work. Responsibilities include assisting with investigations and conflict resolution matters, reviewing municipal by-laws and related legal frameworks, and conducting legal research and analysis.
Interns will also provide administrative and operational support within the unit, allowing them to develop a strong understanding of governance structures and dispute-resolution processes.
Important Application Information
Applicants are required to take note of the following before submitting an application:
Applications must be submitted online only
Applicants with foreign qualifications must submit a SAQA evaluation certificate
Background checks and security vetting will be conducted
The CRL Rights Commission reserves the right not to make appointments
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
If no response is received within three months after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful
Documents Required for Online Submission
After completing the online application form, applicants must upload all required supporting documents. These include a detailed CV, a motivational cover letter, a recently certified copy of a South African ID not older than six months, and recently certified copies of qualifications.
Applicants must also upload a valid driver’s licence and a SAQA evaluation certificate if the qualification was obtained outside South Africa.
Failure to upload all required documents will result in disqualification.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official online application platform provided by the CRL Rights Commission.
Apply online for the CRL Rights Commission Investigations and Conflict Resolution Internship Programme 2026 using the official application system and ensure that all documents are uploaded before final submission.
Enquiries
For application-related enquiries, candidates may contact the Human Resources office on 011 358 9108 or 011 358 9112.
Why This Internship Is Worth Applying For
This internship offers a solid entry point into public-sector legal work and governance. Successful applicants benefit from structured legal exposure, hands-on involvement in investigations and dispute resolution, and a stable monthly stipend over a two-year period.
The experience gained is particularly valuable for graduates interested in constitutional law, regulatory compliance, and public administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CRL Rights Commission internship paid?
Yes. Interns receive a monthly stipend of R10 106.21 for the full 24-month duration.
Who qualifies to apply for the 2026 internship?
Unemployed South African citizens aged between 25 and 40 who hold an LLB or equivalent NQF Level 8 qualification.
Can graduates with foreign qualifications apply?
Yes. A SAQA evaluation certificate is required.
How long does the internship last?
The internship runs for a period of 24 months.
Will all applicants receive feedback?
No. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Conclusion
The CRL Rights Commission Investigations and Conflict Resolution Internship Programme 2026 offers unemployed law graduates a valuable opportunity to gain meaningful public-sector legal experience within a constitutional institution. With structured exposure to investigations, legal research, and dispute resolution, the programme provides a strong foundation for a career in governance and public law.
Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply before the closing date of 20 January 2026, as late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
