Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) was established by the General Assembly in its resolution 77/301, adopted on 29 June 202

• The organization is dedicated to addressing the issue of missing persons in Syria, focusing on the needs and rights of victims, survivors, and their families. The IIMP aims to provide a comprehensive approach to the challenges faced by these individuals, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. The institution operates under the auspices of the United Nations and is committed to upholding human rights standards and promoting accountability in the context of the Syrian conflict. The organization is relatively new, and as such, it is in the process of establishing its operational framework and building its team to effectively carry out its mission.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer will play a crucial role in the IIMP by planning and coordinating activities that engage with victims, survivors, and families of missing persons. This position requires a strong focus on gender and victim-centered perspectives, ensuring that the needs and rights of these individuals are prioritized. The officer will conduct substantive research and analysis of human rights issues, assessing their impact on the situation in the assigned region or country. This includes collecting and analyzing human rights data, implementing tools to strengthen participation and feedback mechanisms, and integrating human rights considerations into various political, humanitarian, and economic efforts. The officer will also supervise field verification work, represent the UN human rights program in meetings, and direct capacity-building efforts in the region. The role demands a high level of professionalism, analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve organizational goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: planning and coordinating engagement activities with victims and families; conducting research and analysis of human rights issues; collecting and analyzing human rights data; ensuring integration of human rights issues into various efforts; defining work plans in accordance with established terms of reference; supervising field verification work; representing the UN human rights program at meetings; directing capacity-building efforts; writing reports and communications; providing guidance to junior staff; analyzing data to identify trends; and performing other related duties as required. The officer will need to demonstrate a strong commitment to human rights and the ability to work under pressure while maintaining a focus on the needs of victims and survivors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area. Experience working directly with victims and survivors of conflict and human rights abuses is essential, as is experience related to the search for missing persons. Familiarity with referral systems and coordination with service providers is desirable, as is experience working in or on the Syrian Arab Republic.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as law, political science, international relations, or social sciences. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complex legal and political issues surrounding human rights and the specific challenges faced by victims and survivors in conflict situations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in areas related to human rights, political affairs, or international relations. Candidates should have direct experience engaging with victims and survivors of human rights abuses, which is crucial for understanding their needs and perspectives. Experience with mandates or programs focused on missing persons is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the Syrian context, which will enhance the officer's ability to navigate the complexities of the situation.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is required, with both languages being essential for effective communication and reporting. The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French, but for this role, the ability to communicate in Arabic is critical due to the context of the work. Candidates should demonstrate a high level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both English and Arabic, as per the UN Language Framework standards.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and the position may require relocation to Damascus, Syria, or another relevant location. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization values diversity and inclusivity, and candidates from underrepresented member states are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and candidates should be aware of the importance of integrity and ethical standards in their professional conduct.