Representative, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

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 the rights of individuals are respected and upheld, providing guidance and support to countries in their efforts to comply with international human rights standards. The organization operates in various countries, including Mozambique, where it has a dedicated office in Maputo. The OHCHR is committed to addressing human rights violations and promoting accountability, with a mission to empower individuals and communities to claim their rights and hold governments accountable for their actions.

Job Overview:
The Representative in the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Maputo plays a crucial role in monitoring and advising on human rights developments within Mozambique. This position involves providing strategic guidance to the High Commissioner regarding the human rights situation in the country, particularly in identifying early warning signs of potential human rights crises. The Representative is expected to develop and maintain strategic relationships with the UN Country Team and other stakeholders, ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into all aspects of UN programming and planning. The role also includes managing the Country Office, overseeing staff performance, and ensuring the effective use of resources to achieve the office's objectives. The Representative will engage with national authorities, civil society, and international organizations to promote human rights and support the implementation of international human rights mechanisms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Representative include:

• Monitoring human rights developments in Mozambique and advising the High Commissioner on the situation.
• Developing strategic relationships with the UN Country Team and providing support for human rights-based approaches.
• Enhancing OHCHR's network of partners in the region to provide human rights advice.
• Formulating work programs, budgets, and medium-term plans, ensuring timely delivery of outputs.
• Advising on strategic interventions and following up on recommendations from treaty bodies.
• Managing the Country Office, including staff supervision and performance reviews.
• Representing OHCHR in meetings with national authorities and NGOs.
• Designing and implementing policies and programs to address human rights issues.
• Promoting the ratification and implementation of international human rights mechanisms. 1
• Engaging with regional organizations and media to promote human rights.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights issues and the ability to navigate complex political environments. They should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, planning and organizing skills, leadership capabilities, and sound judgment in decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of working in human rights, political affairs, or related fields, with the ability to manage teams and develop effective strategies.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, or a related field is required. 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, or law is required. This experience should include at least five years in a managerial role overseeing teams of five or more individuals. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing human rights strategies and engaging with donors.

Languages:
English is required at UN Level III proficiency. Knowledge of Portuguese and Spanish is desirable, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level II in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for three months, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. The role may be limited to internal candidates or those based at the duty station. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.