UN Volunteer - Human Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is the leading UN entity focused on human rights. Established to promote and protect the full range of human rights and freedoms as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, OHCHR plays a crucial role in ensuring universal ratification and implementation of major human rights treaties. The organization is dedicated to empowering individuals on human rights issues and assisting governments in fulfilling their human rights obligations through technical cooperation and capacity-building initiatives. OHCHR also aims to integrate a human rights perspective into all UN programs. The Pacific Regional Office, established in August 2005 in Suva, Fiji, covers 16 countries, including the Federated States of Micronesia, and works to enhance human rights in the region.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer will be part of the OHCHR’s Pacific Regional Office, focusing on supporting projects in the Micronesian region, which includes Nauru, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and Palau. The role involves working under the supervision of the Regional Representative and the Human Rights Officer stationed in Pohnpei. The primary objective is to promote the meaningful participation of marginalized groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and local communities, in the development and implementation of climate change and disaster risk reduction frameworks. The volunteer will also address the challenges faced by Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) and work towards strengthening their networks, particularly in relation to environmental issues and climate change.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the creation and strengthening of networks for human rights defenders, particularly those addressing environmental degradation and climate change impacts in the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, and Palau.
• Conduct substantive research and analysis on challenges related to the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, linking findings to broader regional engagement.
• Assist in planning and organizing events focused on women’s and girls’ rights and gender equality in the region.
• Support the drafting of internal and external reports, communications, briefings, and statements for policy-making bodies.
• Engage in educational and promotional activities to raise awareness about the connections between human rights, gender equality, and environmental issues.
• Develop and implement a communication strategy to enhance external engagement on these topics, including social media outreach.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong analytical and research skills, particularly in human rights and environmental issues. They should demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups and have experience in capacity building and technical assistance. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, along with the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders, including government entities and civil society organizations.

Educational Background:
A degree in human rights, international relations, environmental studies, social sciences, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights law or environmental policy would be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in human rights, environmental issues, or related fields. Experience working in the Pacific region or with marginalized communities is highly desirable. Familiarity with UN processes and human rights mechanisms will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Micronesian region would be an advantage, as it would facilitate better communication and engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as a C hardship duty station, meaning that the selected candidate will need to arrange their own housing and living essentials. This role is a full-time commitment and may involve travel within the region to support various initiatives.