Consultant for Human Rights Defenders and Journalists

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR operates in various countries to ensure that human rights are upheld and respected. The organization works with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to strengthen human rights frameworks and address violations. OHCHR employs a diverse team of professionals committed to advancing human rights standards and practices worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting OHCHR's mission to enhance the protection of human rights defenders (HRDs) and journalists in Mozambique. This position involves conducting a comprehensive mapping of existing protection mechanisms and referral pathways for HRDs and journalists, assessing their effectiveness, and identifying gaps. The Consultant will also be responsible for developing a practical toolkit/publication that provides guidance on accessing protection and support services. The work will require collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure that the findings and recommendations are relevant and actionable, ultimately contributing to the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of HRDs and journalists in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including: - Mapping existing protection mechanisms for HRDs and journalists in Mozambique, which encompasses government, civil society, and international initiatives. - Identifying referral pathways that outline the practical routes and processes through which HRDs and journalists can access necessary protection, support, or services in response to threats, harassment, or attacks. - Assessing the accessibility, effectiveness, and gaps in current protection mechanisms and referral pathways to provide a clear overview of the existing landscape. - Preparing a final analytical report that presents the mapping and assessment results, including concrete, actionable recommendations aimed at strengthening protection mechanisms and improving coordination among relevant actors. - Developing a brief practical toolkit/publication for HRDs and journalists that summarizes the identified protection mechanisms and referral pathways, ensuring it is well-structured and accessible.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience is required, demonstrating a strong understanding of international human rights standards related to the protection of HRDs and journalists. Additionally, candidates should have experience in conducting mapping exercises, stakeholder consultations, and formulating policy recommendations, as well as developing practical guidance, toolkits, or publications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying work experience to meet the educational requirements. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant work experience, which should include a strong focus on human rights issues, particularly concerning the protection of HRDs and journalists. This experience should encompass practical involvement in mapping exercises, stakeholder consultations, and the development of policy recommendations. Additionally, candidates should have a proven track record of creating practical guidance, toolkits, or publications that address the needs of HRDs and journalists.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Portuguese, both oral and written, is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the development of materials that will be accessible to HRDs and journalists in Mozambique. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to take place from January 15, 2026, to March 31, 202

• The position does not specify a fee for the recruitment process, emphasizing that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This commitment to a fee-free recruitment process is part of the United Nations' broader efforts to ensure transparency and integrity in its hiring practices.