Human Rights Officer (2 positions)

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 rights and needs of victims and their families. The IIMP aims to provide a comprehensive approach to the challenges faced by those affected by enforced disappearances and to promote accountability and justice. The organization operates with a commitment to human rights and seeks to engage with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and international bodies, to fulfill its mission. The IIMP is relatively new, and its establishment reflects the international community's recognition of the urgent need to address the plight of missing persons in conflict situations. The organization is expected to grow and evolve as it establishes its operational framework and engages with affected communities.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation of international human rights instruments and the promotion of human rights within the context of the IIMP's mission. The incumbent will be responsible for reviewing, monitoring, and evaluating activities related to human rights, ensuring that the perspectives and needs of victims and survivors inform the institution's strategies. This position requires a deep understanding of human rights issues, particularly in relation to missing persons, and the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders, including victims, UN agencies, and non-governmental organizations. The officer will also be tasked with preparing reports for the General Assembly and other bodies, leading engagement with affected communities, and ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into programs and policies. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying trends and making recommendations based on data analysis, as well as the ability to train and supervise junior staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: reviewing and evaluating the implementation of international human rights instruments; supporting treaty-established bodies and mechanisms; preparing reports on human rights issues; leading engagement with victims and families of missing persons; integrating human rights into UN and NGO programs; ensuring up-to-date information on human rights matters; promoting the rights and dignity of victims; coordinating with other sectors of the UN and international organizations; developing training programs for military and police; serving as a team leader; training and supervising new staff; collecting and analyzing data to identify trends; and performing other related duties as required. The officer will need to demonstrate professionalism, communication skills, and client orientation in all aspects of their work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in human rights, political affairs, or related fields, with a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience. This experience should include direct engagement with victims and survivors of conflict and human rights abuses, as well as work related to the search for missing persons. Familiarity with establishing referral networks for legal and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support is desirable, as is experience managing staff in the context of victim assistance or human rights work. Knowledge of the Syrian context is also beneficial, as it will inform the officer's approach to the challenges faced by the institution.

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 experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complex legal and political frameworks that govern human rights issues, particularly in conflict settings.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area. Candidates should have a proven track record of working directly with victims and survivors of human rights abuses, as well as experience in programs related to missing persons. Experience in establishing referral networks for support services and managing staff in a human rights context is also desirable. Familiarity with the Syrian Arab Republic and its specific challenges regarding human rights will be an asset.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is required. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively in these languages, both orally and in writing, as this will be crucial for engaging with diverse stakeholders and producing reports and documentation. The UN Language Framework outlines the minimum required levels for each skill in these languages, which candidates should consult for details.

Additional Notes:
The position is currently based in Geneva, Switzerland, but may be subject to relocation to Damascus, Syria, or another relevant location as determined by the institution's operations. Candidates should be prepared for potential reassignment in accordance with UN regulations. The role may involve full-time commitments and requires a high level of professionalism and dedication to human rights advocacy. Compensation and benefits will be in line with UN standards, and the institution is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.