Senior Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The organization aims to ensure that the fundamental freedoms and rights of individuals are respected and upheld. OHCHR operates in various countries, working with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address human rights issues. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women, and it strives to create a diverse and inclusive environment. The OHCHR has a significant presence in multiple countries, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to human rights advocacy and protection.

Job Overview:
The Senior Human Rights Officer position is a leadership role within the OHCHR in Mexico City, responsible for overseeing the operations of the Country Office. The incumbent will lead the office in its mandate to monitor, provide advisory services, and promote human rights in Mexico. This role requires the formulation of human rights strategies, including a focus on gender equality, and the development of a vision for the office's work. The officer will advise the Mexican government and the UN Country Team on enhancing national capacities for human rights protection. Daily management of the office, including logistics, finance, and human resources, is a key responsibility. The officer will also represent the High Commissioner on human rights matters, build relationships with various stakeholders, and propose policy directives to address human rights challenges. The position demands a proactive approach to fundraising and the preparation of human rights reports on significant developments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Human Rights Officer will be responsible for leading and coordinating the work of OHCHR-Mexico, ensuring adherence to its mandate. Key duties include formulating human rights strategies, advising the government and UN agencies, managing the office's daily operations, and representing the High Commissioner. The officer will build and maintain relationships with government officials, NGOs, and intergovernmental organizations, propose policy directives, and implement significant program changes. Responsibilities also include formulating the office's work program and budget, promoting fundraising strategies, preparing human rights reports, coordinating research initiatives, and managing staff development and coaching.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights issues, including the ability to address complex problems in various socio-political contexts. Knowledge of human rights organizations' mandates and policies is essential. The ability to evaluate information from diverse sources and assess its impact on human rights situations is crucial. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, teamwork, leadership capabilities, and sound judgment in decision-making. The role requires a commitment to gender equality and the ability to navigate sensitive issues with integrity and respect.

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. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights law and international relations.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, or law is required. Out of these ten years, at least four years of experience managing a team of at least eight people is desirable. Experience in monitoring and investigating human rights issues in field settings is also preferred, as it provides practical insights into the challenges faced in the promotion and protection of human rights.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish (both oral and written) is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is one of the official languages of the UN. Effective communication in these languages is crucial for engaging with diverse stakeholders and reporting on human rights issues.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. Staff members of the United Nations Secretariat must fulfill lateral move requirements to be eligible for this vacancy. The UN is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The UN emphasizes the importance of gender balance in staffing and strongly encourages female candidates to apply.