UN Associate Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The Human Rights Advisory Unit (HRAU) was established in 2013 and is located within the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Dili, East Timor. The unit is composed of staff from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and operates as part of the UN Country Team (UNCT). The mission of the HRAU is to support Timor-Leste in complying with its legal obligations under international human rights law and to assist in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The HRAU provides advice to the Resident Coordinator and helps integrate human rights into various programs and activities, while also offering technical advice to the government, national institutions, and civil society on human rights issues. The unit focuses on capacity-building and training for governmental and non-governmental actors, particularly in relation to human rights standards and engagement with international mechanisms.

Job Overview:
The UN Associate Volunteer position is primarily focused on entry-level research related to the international human rights system and its connection to local realities. The volunteer will provide programmatic support while gaining practical experience in human rights and democratic governance. The role involves assisting in the collection and organization of data on human rights issues, preparing briefing notes and background papers, and organizing workshops and seminars. The volunteer will also support the preparation for the 4th Universal Periodic Review (UPR) cycle for Timor-Leste and assist in monitoring and following up on human rights treaties. This position is an excellent opportunity for individuals currently studying towards a degree in Human Rights, Law, International Relations, or Political Science, as it allows them to engage directly with human rights advocacy and policy implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Associate Volunteer include:

• Assisting in the collection and organization of data on basic human rights issues to support the HRAU's objectives.
• Supporting the preparation of briefing notes, summaries, and background papers that inform stakeholders about human rights developments in Timor-Leste.
• Assisting in the organization of workshops, seminars, and meetings aimed at enhancing understanding and engagement with human rights issues.
• Compiling information relevant to human rights monitoring to ensure accurate reporting and analysis.
• Supporting the preparation for the 4th UPR cycle of Timor-Leste, which involves gathering data and insights on the country's human rights situation.
• Monitoring and following up on human rights treaties to ensure compliance and implementation of international standards.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires candidates to have a secondary education and be currently studying towards a degree in Human Rights, Law, International Relations, or Political Science. Candidates should possess strong research and analytical skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken formats. Familiarity with human rights issues and international law is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to human rights principles and values, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary education and be actively pursuing a degree in a relevant field such as Human Rights, Law, International Relations, or Political Science. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the international legal framework surrounding them.

Experience:
The position is designed for individuals who may not have extensive professional experience but are eager to learn and contribute to human rights advocacy. Previous volunteer or internship experience in related fields is a plus but not mandatory. The focus is on providing practical experience and exposure to the workings of human rights mechanisms and governance.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of Portuguese or Tetum, the official languages of East Timor, is considered an asset and may enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role, and candidates should be prepared for a commitment that may vary in duration. The role is full-time and may involve working in a multicultural environment. While the position is based in Dili, East Timor, candidates should be aware of the living conditions, including accommodation arrangements and local amenities. The host agency will assist with initial accommodation arrangements, which will be at the volunteer's expense. Compensation for the volunteer role may not be provided, but the experience gained will be invaluable for future career opportunities in the field of human rights.