Legal Research Assistant

Wikitongues is a global initiative that celebrates the diversity of human languages, working to ensure that every voice has the opportunity to thrive. With thousands of languages at risk of extinction, we believe that linguistic diversity is a cornerstone of cultural identity and a vital component of human heritage. By working with communities to document, share, and revitalize their languages, Wikitongues fosters inclusivity and promotes a world where no language is lost.

We invite you to join our mission to preserve the world’s linguistic tapestry, creating a more connected and equitable future.

What you'll do Are you passionate about human rights and language preservation? Do you have a legal background or are currently studying law? Wikitongues is seeking a dedicated Legal Research Assistant to support a special human rights report focused on language rights worldwide.

As a Legal Research Assistant, you will work closely with members of our board and other researchers to conduct research for a groundbreaking human rights report. This project will focus on laws and policies relating to language rights in nations around the world. Your contributions will help shed light on global efforts (or challenges) to protect linguistic and cultural diversity.

This is a remote volunteer role requiring approximately 2-5 hours per week.

What you will do:

Conduct in-depth research on national and international laws and policies related to language rights.

Analyze legal frameworks, human rights treaties, and case studies.

Organize findings into concise, well-documented summaries.

Collaborate with Wikitongues board members to integrate research into the report.

Provide feedback and insights to strengthen the project’s scope and impact.

What you'll bring

Legal background (degree in law, studying law, or relevant experience).

Strong research and analytical skills.

Interest in human rights, cultural preservation, or linguistic diversity.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Not required, but proficiency in any of the following languages is a plus: Swahili, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Arabic (Fusha), Mandarin, Russian, Bahasa Indonesia, Hindi, Urdu.

What you’ll get This is a volunteer position. If you are looking to receive course credit for an internship, please let us know so that we can discuss turning this role into an internship.

About Wikitongues Founded in 2014, Wikitongues is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sustaining linguistic diversity. We support individuals and communities in documenting and revitalizing their languages through open-access resources, tools, and funding. Our programs have helped people on six continents—from endangered language speakers recording oral histories to grassroots leaders building sustainable revitalization programs.

Through collaboration with linguists, technologists, and activists, Wikitongues bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. Together, we are building an open and inclusive platform where people from all walks of life can celebrate and safeguard humanity’s linguistic heritage.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging At Wikitongues, we are committed to fostering a culture where diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are more than values—they are the foundation of everything we do. Language is a gateway to identity, and we believe every individual deserves a platform to express themselves authentically, free from discrimination or bias.

We prioritize equitable access to resources and support, ensuring that everyone—regardless of their background—can participate in safeguarding their language and heritage. We recognize that achieving true equity requires continuous learning and accountability. Through active collaboration, transparent decision-making, and intentional representation, Wikitongues is building a future where everyone belongs.

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