National Consultant on Indigenous Peoples and Human Rights

National Consultant on Indigenous Peoples and Human Rights

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

January 9, 2026January 18, 2026BrasiliaBrazil
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The organization is part of the United Nations, which was established to promote international cooperation and to create and maintain international order. The UN has a mission to foster peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and human rights globally. It operates in numerous countries around the world, with a focus on various issues including human rights, development, and humanitarian assistance. The UN employs thousands of individuals across various fields and has a significant presence in Brazil, working closely with local communities and governments to address pressing social issues.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant on Indigenous Peoples and Human Rights will play a crucial role in ensuring the protection and participation of Indigenous Peoples, People of African Descent, and other traditional communities in public affairs. This position involves engaging with various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and local communities, to advocate for the rights and protections of these groups. The consultant will be expected to participate in meetings and discussions that focus on the rights of Indigenous Peoples, particularly those in initial contact and voluntary isolation, and to contribute to the development of protocols aimed at protecting human rights defenders within these communities. The role requires a deep understanding of human rights issues, particularly as they pertain to marginalized groups in Brazil, and the ability to navigate complex social and political landscapes to effect change.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Actively participate in meetings focused on the protection of Indigenous Peoples and People of African descent, including quilombolas and other traditional communities, organized by national and local stakeholders.
  • Engage in discussions and meetings facilitated by the Office of Public Defender, the National Indigenous Foundation (FUNAI), and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, with a specific focus on Indigenous Peoples in initial contact and voluntary isolation.
  • Conduct meetings with government officials, civil society organizations, Indigenous Peoples, quilombolas, environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs), local community associations, and the UN System in Brazil to discuss and promote the protection of these communities.
  • Collaborate with the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship, and national social movements representing Indigenous Peoples, Quilombolas, and other traditional communities to develop contributions to the Protocol on the Collective Protection of Human Rights Defenders.
  • Provide expert advice and recommendations based on best practices and international standards regarding the rights of Indigenous Peoples and other marginalized communities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in Law, Social Science, or a related field. A Master’s degree in human rights or a related discipline is highly desirable. The position requires at least five years of professional experience in human rights at the national level, with a minimum of two years specifically focused on issues related to the rights of Indigenous Peoples and People of African descent, including Quilombola Communities. Experience should also include a gender-sensitive approach to human rights advocacy. Familiarity with the UN System and its operations is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a bachelor’s degree in Law, Social Science, or a related field. A Master’s degree in human rights or a closely related area is preferred, as it provides a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding human rights issues, particularly those affecting Indigenous Peoples and marginalized communities.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of five years of experience working in human rights at the national level. This experience should include at least two years of direct involvement with issues concerning the rights of Indigenous Peoples, People of African descent, and other traditional communities. Candidates with experience working within the UN System will have a competitive advantage, as they will be familiar with the organization's protocols and operational frameworks.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and communities. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is classified as a national position, meaning that only Brazilian nationals or individuals with permanent residency in Brazil are eligible to apply. The consultancy is expected to last for a duration of 10 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Applicants should be cautious of any fraudulent activities that may request personal banking information.
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