UN Volunteer for Human Rights Monitoring and Capacity Building

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 as part of the United Nations, OHCHR operates with the mission to uphold the ideals of human dignity and ensure that all individuals can enjoy their human rights. The organization is led by the High Commissioner for Human Rights, who is the principal official responsible for human rights within the UN system. OHCHR's work is guided by its Management Plan for 2018-2023, which outlines its strategic priorities, including strengthening international human rights mechanisms, enhancing equality, combating impunity, and integrating human rights into development efforts. OHCHR operates in various countries, supporting the work of UN human rights mechanisms and promoting the enforcement of universally recognized human rights norms.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position within OHCHR-EARO focuses on supporting the organization's efforts in capacity building, human rights monitoring, and providing technical assistance to various stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society, and human rights defenders. The role involves working under the supervision of the Regional Representative and the Deputy Representative, contributing to human rights and development initiatives, and engaging in advocacy and reporting activities. The volunteer will be expected to support data management and analysis related to human rights trends, develop human rights products, and assist in planning and implementing training and awareness activities. This position is crucial for ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into the work of OHCHR and its partners in Ethiopia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Contributing to general human rights and development work, including monitoring, reporting, and advocacy efforts.
• Supporting data management and analysis related to human rights trends to inform decision-making and strategy development.
• Providing capacity and technical assistance to Federal and Regional Government institutions, Civil Society, and human rights defenders on human rights issues.
• Developing and analyzing human rights products in collaboration with human rights officers to enhance understanding and action on human rights matters.
• Planning and implementing training and awareness activities, working closely with field monitors and Human Rights Officers across the regions.
• Engaging with stakeholders, including justice, corrections, police, civil society organizations (CSOs), national human rights institutions (NHRIs), and UN agencies to foster collaboration and support for human rights initiatives.
• Building new partnerships with national actors on behalf of OHCHR-EARO to strengthen the human rights framework in Ethiopia.
• Participating in relevant stakeholder meetings to mainstream human rights in humanitarian contexts and ensure a coordinated approach to human rights issues.
• Ensuring that a human rights-based approach is utilized in OHCHR-EARO's work with other UN and civil society partners in the planning and implementation of country-based initiatives and projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer position should possess a strong commitment to human rights and development principles. They should have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. A demonstrated understanding of human rights issues, particularly in the context of Ethiopia, is essential. Additionally, candidates should be adaptable, motivated, and willing to engage with diverse stakeholders to promote human rights effectively.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in law, social sciences, international relations, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights, development, or related areas would be advantageous and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have prior experience in human rights monitoring, advocacy, or capacity building, ideally within a UN or international organization context. Experience working with government institutions, civil society organizations, or human rights defenders is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Ethiopian context and the challenges faced in promoting human rights in the region will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of local languages, such as Amharic, would be considered an asset and could enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role, and while it may not offer a traditional salary, it provides valuable experience in the field of human rights and development. The role is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, which is the capital and largest city of the country. The living conditions in Addis Ababa are generally favorable, with a relatively low crime rate and a vibrant cultural scene. The position may involve working full-time and engaging with various stakeholders in the region to promote and protect human rights.