Associate Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has been actively involved in the Philippines since 2014, focusing on the promotion and protection of human rights. The organization aims to provide technical cooperation and capacity-building initiatives that align with the UN-Philippine Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (SDCF) for the years 2024-202

• OHCHR's mission is to strengthen domestic human rights institutions and enhance the capacity of national actors to uphold human rights, particularly through the implementation of the Fourth Philippine Human Rights Plan and other related initiatives. The organization operates in various countries, working towards the global promotion of human rights and the establishment of effective mechanisms for accountability and justice.

Job Overview:
The Associate Human Rights Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the technical cooperation and capacity-building efforts of OHCHR in the Philippines. This position involves working closely with national counterparts and civil society actors to promote human rights education, strengthen engagement with international human rights mechanisms, and protect civic space and human rights defenders. The officer will be responsible for implementing activities that mainstream human rights within institutional and academic settings, ensuring that human rights education is integrated into law enforcement and criminology curricula. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to develop training modules and facilitate training sessions that address gender perspectives and disability inclusion. The Associate Human Rights Officer will also conduct research on human rights issues, assess their impact, and prepare written outputs such as reports and presentations to support the implementation of human rights initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Human Rights Officer include:

• Supporting the roll-out of activities related to human rights mainstreaming and strengthening domestic human rights mechanisms.
• Developing training modules to implement recommendations from international human rights mechanisms.
• Facilitating training and providing technical support to national institutions, government actors, and civil society organizations, with a focus on gender perspectives and disability inclusion.
• Conducting research on human rights issues and events, assessing their impact on the human rights situation and the work of the UN Country Team.
• Developing and maintaining contacts with relevant stakeholders and civil society organizations, representing OHCHR at working-level meetings.
• Assisting in the preparation of various written outputs, including background papers, monthly reports, briefings, and presentations.
• Supporting coordination of work and administrative functions.
• Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Associate Human Rights Officer position must possess a strong understanding of human rights principles and frameworks. They should demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and have the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. The role requires adaptability, creativity, and sound judgment in decision-making. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism and self-management skills, as well as the ability to plan and organize their work efficiently. A commitment to promoting human rights and social justice is essential.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Associate Human Rights Officer position. Candidates should hold a degree in law, social sciences, international relations, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights, international law, or related disciplines will be considered an asset. Continuous professional development in human rights issues and mechanisms is encouraged.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in human rights, international relations, or a related field. Experience working with national institutions, civil society organizations, or international organizations in the context of human rights is highly desirable. Familiarity with human rights mechanisms and the ability to conduct research and analysis on human rights issues will be advantageous. Experience in training and capacity-building initiatives is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of OHCHR. Knowledge of Filipino or other local languages is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance engagement with civil society organizations. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Metro Manila, Philippines, and is classified as a full-time role. The living conditions in Metro Manila are characterized by a tropical climate, with various amenities available for modern living. The organization offers a supportive work environment and encourages a diverse and inclusive workplace. Compensation and benefits will be provided in accordance with UN standards, and the organization is open to recruiting both nationally and internationally.