Online Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is the leading United Nations entity in the field of human rights, established to promote and protect all human rights for all people. The OHCHR operates globally, with a specific focus on various regions, including the Middle East and North Africa. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that human rights are upheld as outlined in international human rights instruments, and it engages in activities such as gathering information, conducting investigations, and issuing reports on human rights violations. The OHCHR Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa, based in Beirut, oversees eleven countries, including Algeria, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates. The office prioritizes gender equality and women's rights and actively collaborates with civil society organizations, governments, and national human rights institutions to strengthen human rights mechanisms and knowledge across the region.

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer at the OHCHR Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa involves assisting with thematic monitoring priorities and emblematic incidents related to human rights violations. The volunteer will work closely with legal reporting officers and desk officers to conduct open-source research on assigned human rights topics or incidents. This role is crucial for supporting the office's mission to monitor and report on human rights issues, as well as to implement planned projects and activities. The volunteer will be responsible for preparing concise weekly summaries that highlight key findings, trends, and sources, thereby contributing to the overall understanding and analysis of human rights situations in the region. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in developing their skills in human rights monitoring and analysis, while also contributing to the important work of the OHCHR.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties and responsibilities of the Online Volunteer include conducting open-source research on assigned human rights topics or incidents using publicly available information. The volunteer will prepare short weekly summaries (1–2 pages) that highlight key findings, trends, and sources related to the research conducted. This role requires close collaboration with legal reporting officers and desk officers to ensure that the research aligns with the office's thematic monitoring priorities. The volunteer may also be involved in analyzing data and information related to human rights violations, contributing to reports and documentation that support the office's advocacy and awareness-raising efforts. Additionally, the volunteer may participate in discussions and meetings to share insights and findings from their research, thereby enhancing the overall capacity of the office to address human rights challenges in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Online Volunteer position should possess strong research and analytical skills, with a keen interest in human rights issues. Familiarity with international human rights standards and mechanisms is highly desirable. The ability to synthesize information and present it clearly and concisely in written form is essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the principles of human rights and a willingness to engage with complex issues related to human rights violations. Proficiency in using online research tools and databases is also important for this role.

Educational Background:
A background in law, international relations, human rights, social sciences, or a related field is preferred for candidates applying for the Online Volunteer position. Relevant coursework or training in human rights law or monitoring is advantageous and will enhance the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to the office's work.

Experience:
While prior experience in human rights monitoring or research is beneficial, it is not strictly required for this volunteer position. However, candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of human rights issues and a willingness to learn and engage with the work of the OHCHR. Experience in volunteer work or internships related to human rights, law, or social justice can be an asset.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as all research and reporting will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Arabic or French is considered a valuable asset, as it may enhance the volunteer's ability to engage with a broader range of sources and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and as such, it may not offer financial compensation. The role is designed to provide valuable experience and skills development in the field of human rights monitoring and analysis. The duration of the volunteer assignment is not specified, and candidates should be prepared to commit to a flexible schedule that accommodates the needs of the office and the volunteer's availability. The position is open to individuals interested in contributing to the important work of the OHCHR and gaining practical experience in the field of human rights.