Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that human rights are respected and upheld in all countries, providing guidance and support to governments and civil society. The organization is committed to the principles of equality, justice, and dignity for all individuals, regardless of their background. The OHCHR operates in numerous countries, engaging with various stakeholders to address human rights violations and promote accountability. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to advancing human rights and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is integral to the work of the OHCHR in Bosnia and Herzegovina, focusing on the promotion and protection of human rights within the region. The officer will be responsible for planning and coordinating activities related to thematic and country mandates on human rights, with a particular emphasis on gender perspectives. This role requires conducting substantive research and analysis of human rights issues, assessing their impact on the local human rights situation, and ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into various political, humanitarian, and economic efforts. The officer will also provide technical advice to national authorities and engage in strategic advocacy, program development, and coordination within the United Nations country team. The position involves organizing consultations and events related to transitional justice, representing the UN human rights program at meetings, and contributing to reports and public materials on relevant issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: planning and coordinating human rights activities; conducting research and analysis on human rights issues; collecting and analyzing human rights data; providing support to commissions and bodies; ensuring integration of human rights issues into broader efforts; offering technical advice to authorities; organizing consultations and events; defining work plans; representing the UN at meetings; writing reports and materials; and guiding junior staff. The officer will also perform other related duties as required, demonstrating a commitment to the principles of human rights and gender equality.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights issues, including their political, ethnic, racial, gender equality, and socio-economic dimensions. A solid knowledge of international human rights norms and standards, as well as transitional justice processes, is essential. The ability to conduct research, analyze information, and draft reports is critical, along with the capacity to evaluate and integrate information from various sources. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is required. Successful completion of programs focused on human rights and transitional justice is considered an advantage, highlighting the importance of specialized knowledge in this area.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related field is required. Candidates must have experience in transitional justice and applying human rights standards to research and analysis. Experience working with civil society, including victims’ associations, and conducting in-depth research and analysis is also necessary.

Languages:
English is required at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian are also required at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and engagement in the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the extension of the mandate and/or availability of funds. Candidates must be nationals of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is dedicated to creating a respectful and inclusive work environment.