Associate Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Country Office in Sudan, also known as UN Human Rights Sudan, was established on September 25, 2019, following an agreement with the Government of Sudan. The organization is dedicated to providing advisory services and technical assistance to national institutions, monitoring, documenting, and reporting on the human rights situation, and supporting various stakeholders, including civil society. Since its inception, UN Human Rights has played a pivotal role in enhancing accountability through its engagement with national institutions and civil society, focusing on promoting and protecting human rights in a challenging environment. The office operates in a complex humanitarian context, addressing severe human rights crises and working towards a post-conflict democratic transformation that respects the rule of law. UN Human Rights is recognized as the lead UN entity on human rights in Sudan, actively engaging with a wide range of partners to integrate human rights into humanitarian action and development efforts.

Job Overview:
The Associate Human Rights Officer position is crucial for supporting the UN Human Rights Sudan's mission in a highly dynamic and challenging environment. The role involves working under the supervision of the Head of Office and reporting to the Leave No One Behind Team Leader. The officer will contribute to human rights mainstreaming by integrating protection and human rights norms into humanitarian and development frameworks. This includes monitoring and reporting on violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, particularly those affecting vulnerable groups such as women, girls, and persons with disabilities. The officer will also design and deliver capacity-building programs for civil society organizations, focusing on inclusion and empowerment of human rights defenders. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in high-impact human rights programming in one of the UN's largest emergency contexts, collaborating with national and international partners to strengthen protection and accountability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Contributing to human rights mainstreaming efforts by promoting the integration of protection and human rights norms into humanitarian and development frameworks.
• Conducting monitoring and reporting of violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, with a focus on gender-based violence and violations affecting marginalized groups.
• Supporting the design and delivery of human rights capacity-building programs for civil society, particularly local humanitarian responders, emphasizing gender and disability inclusion.
• Empowering and protecting Human Rights Defenders through documentation, advocacy, and enhancing protection referral pathways.
• Performing other duties as required, including engaging with communities to promote volunteerism and participating in UNV activities.
• Strengthening knowledge of volunteerism and contributing to UNV publications and community engagement initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Associate Human Rights Officer position should possess a strong understanding of human rights principles and international humanitarian law. They should demonstrate discretion, political sensitivity, and the ability to liaise with various stakeholders, particularly in senior positions. A high degree of autonomy, resourcefulness, and the ability to manage information confidentially are essential. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the UN's values and ethical standards. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment are crucial, as is a commitment to gender equality and diversity.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in law, human rights, international relations, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights or humanitarian law may be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the legal frameworks governing human rights and humanitarian action, as well as familiarity with the operational context in Sudan.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in human rights monitoring, reporting, and capacity building. Previous work experience with international organizations, NGOs, or relevant governmental bodies in a humanitarian context is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of engaging with civil society and stakeholders in human rights advocacy and protection efforts. Experience in crisis situations, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, given the context of Sudan and the need to communicate effectively with local stakeholders. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, which is designated as a family duty station. The contract duration is subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance, with no expectation of renewal. UN Volunteers receive a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) to cover basic needs, and the visa process requires obtaining Electronic Travel Authorization prior to travel. The processing time for the visa is typically three working days, but it may take longer in some cases. OHCHR will assist with necessary documentation and permits upon arrival.