Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Human Rights Education Unit (HREU) is part of the Division of Global Operations (GLO) within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The OHCHR was established to promote and protect human rights globally, ensuring that the fundamental freedoms and rights of individuals are upheld. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to the mission of advancing human rights for all. The OHCHR engages in various activities, including monitoring human rights situations, providing technical assistance, and promoting human rights education.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is integral to the Human Rights Education Unit, focusing on the planning and coordination of digital technology activities related to human rights education. The officer will conduct substantive research and analysis of human rights issues, assessing their impact on the human rights situation in assigned regions or countries. This role requires the collection and analysis of human rights data, including gender-specific indicators, to support various bodies and ensure the integration of human rights considerations into political, humanitarian, and economic efforts. The officer will also represent the UN human rights program at meetings, direct capacity-building efforts, and produce various reports and communications. The position emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and the ability to convey complex information effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: planning and coordinating digital technology initiatives related to human rights education; conducting research and analysis on human rights issues; collecting and analyzing human rights data and indicators; providing support to sub-commissions and other bodies; ensuring the integration of human rights issues into broader efforts; defining work plans according to established terms of reference; representing the UN human rights program at meetings; directing capacity-building efforts; writing reports and communications; providing guidance to junior staff; and performing other related duties as required. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying trends and patterns in data, utilizing data visualization methods to support decision-making and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights education methodologies and the application of digital technology in this field. They should have knowledge of the institutional mandates of human rights organizations, prevailing policies, and procedures. Strong research and analytical skills are essential, along with the ability to draft comprehensive human rights reports. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and technological awareness, showing a commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. Experience in education through digital technology is essential, and at least two years of experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable. This experience should demonstrate the ability to handle complex human rights issues and contribute to the organization's objectives effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat, either English or French, is required, with proficiency in both oral and written communication. Knowledge of the other language is desirable, and familiarity with another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for nine months, subject to the availability of funds. It is important to note that this temporary assignment does not guarantee future employment in the same position. Current staff members holding fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointments may apply for temporary positions, but there are specific eligibility requirements based on their current grade. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging female candidates to apply and providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices.