Senior Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a 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 support to governments and civil society in their efforts to promote human rights. The organization operates in various countries around the world, focusing on issues such as civil and political rights, economic, social and cultural rights, and the rights of specific groups. The OHCHR is committed to the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and the rule of law, and it plays a crucial role in addressing human rights violations and advocating for justice and accountability.

Job Overview:
The Senior Human Rights Officer will play a pivotal role in leading and coordinating the work of the OHCHR Yemen Country Office. This includes monitoring and reporting on human rights situations, providing advisory services, and engaging in technical cooperation to promote and protect human rights in Yemen. The incumbent will be responsible for formulating human rights strategies that incorporate a gender equality perspective and will develop a vision for the office's work. The role requires advising the High Commissioner on human rights matters specific to Yemen and representing the High Commissioner in various human rights discussions. The Senior Human Rights Officer will also be tasked with proposing policy directives and action plans to address human rights challenges in Yemen, ensuring the implementation of UN mandates related to human rights, and preparing comprehensive reports on key human rights developments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Human Rights Officer will lead the OHCHR Yemen Country Office, overseeing its operations and ensuring effective monitoring and reporting on human rights issues. Key responsibilities include formulating human rights strategies, advising high-level officials on human rights policies, and representing the High Commissioner in various forums. The officer will design and implement significant policies and programs to address human rights issues, develop the office's work program and budget, and maintain relationships with government officials and de facto authorities. Additionally, the officer will coordinate human rights research initiatives, manage and supervise other human rights officers, and perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a deep understanding of human rights issues, including the ability to address complex problems in various socio-political contexts. The role requires knowledge of the institutional mandates of human rights organizations and the ability to evaluate information from diverse sources. Candidates should demonstrate professional competence, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Leadership qualities are essential, as the officer will be expected to empower others and drive change within the organization. Strong judgment and decision-making skills are also critical for this position.

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. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. Experience working in conflict or post-conflict settings, particularly in the protection of civilians, is essential. Candidates with experience in managing teams, monitoring and reporting on human rights issues, and engaging in technical cooperation within a UN context will be preferred. Experience in fundraising and donor engagement is also desirable.

Languages:
English and Arabic are required for this position, with proficiency at UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is available for an initial period of one year and is subject to the availability of funding. The selected candidate will receive a fixed-term appointment limited in accordance with UN administrative instructions. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment processes.