Consultant for Minority Rights and Human Rights Defenders

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are upheld and that governments are held accountable for their actions. The organization operates in numerous countries around the world, with a mission to promote universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all individuals, regardless of their background. OHCHR engages with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to advance human rights initiatives and provide support for the implementation of international human rights standards.

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant for Minority Rights and Human Rights Defenders involves providing specialized expertise to support the collaboration between OHCHR and Eurac Research. The consultant will play a crucial role in the development of a permanent exhibition focused on minority rights, particularly concerning the South Tyrol minorities. This role also encompasses the planning and execution of the Minority Artists awards process, which is set to culminate in events in late 202

• The consultant will be expected to contribute to the overall programming of OHCHR related to minority artists and human rights defenders, ensuring that the initiatives are effectively implemented and aligned with the organization's goals. The consultant will also engage in various activities, including public outreach, resource mobilization, and the development of digital platforms to enhance the visibility and impact of minority artists' contributions to human rights advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing expertise in the development of a permanent exhibition on minority rights as part of the South Tyrol minorities centre project.
• Supporting the planning and execution of the 2026 Minority Artists awards process, including the organization of art profiling events linked to the UN Forum on Minority Issues.
• Assisting in the implementation of public outreach initiatives in collaboration with local schools in Geneva.
• Contributing to the development of OHCHR's minority artists human rights defenders programming, including logistical planning and content creation.
• Engaging with external partners to facilitate the rollout of the Guide "Protecting Minority Rights" and ensuring its effective implementation at the national level.
• Expanding the network of stakeholders involved in the Minority Artists and Equality for All Academic Action Alliance initiatives.
• Participating in programmatic meetings and providing regular updates on progress and challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Law, Human Rights, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant work experience is required, demonstrating a strong understanding of human rights issues, particularly those affecting minority groups. The consultant should also have proficiency in graphic design programs, showcasing a track record of successful convening and consultation efforts in similar contexts.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree, such as a Master's or Doctorate, in fields related to Law, Human Rights, or similar disciplines. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of minority rights and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant work experience in the field of human rights, with a specific focus on minority rights and anti-discrimination law. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with diverse stakeholders, including civil society organizations, academic institutions, and governmental bodies, to advance human rights initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the UN system and with external partners. Knowledge of Spanish or another UN language is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate broader engagement with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is expected to last from March 15 to November 14, with a focus on full-time engagement during this period. The role is part of a broader initiative to enhance the visibility and impact of minority artists in the context of human rights advocacy. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.