Human Rights Officer (International UNV Specialist)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) was established to promote and protect human rights globally. The Liberia office opened on April 1, 2018, under a host country agreement with the Government of Liberia. The mission of OHCHR-Liberia is to support national efforts in strengthening respect for human rights through various means such as monitoring, reporting, technical assistance, and capacity-building. The office collaborates with government institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to advance the rule of law and protect vulnerable populations. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to human rights advocacy and implementation.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer (International UNV Specialist) plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of OHCHR Liberia’s mandate. Reporting to a designated Human Rights Officer and under the overall supervision of the Representative, the officer is responsible for program development, human rights monitoring, reporting, policy advisory, and technical cooperation. The position requires a strong focus on result-based monitoring and reporting, ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into all program actions. The officer will engage with various stakeholders, including government ministries and civil society organizations, to strengthen the rule of law and justice sector reforms, particularly for marginalized communities. The role also involves contributing to legislative and policy reforms to align national practices with international human rights standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of duties, including:

• Providing technical support for the development and implementation of program actions, ensuring human rights and gender considerations are integrated.
• Supporting program teams in enhancing results-based approaches and alignment with OHCHR strategic frameworks.
• Contributing to results-based monitoring and reporting processes, including the development of indicators and data collection tools.
• Tracking and reporting on output and outcome-level results of human rights interventions in coordination with internal teams and implementing partners.
• Drafting and compiling monthly, annual, and thematic reports, project reports, mission reports, briefing notes, and other external communications.
• Conducting human rights monitoring missions, including in detention facilities, and drafting reports on the situations observed.
• Assessing compliance with international human rights standards and identifying protection concerns affecting persons deprived of liberty.
• Providing technical advice to national stakeholders on strengthening compliance with international human rights standards within the justice and detention systems.
• Supporting the engagement of government and national stakeholders with UN human rights mechanisms, including the Universal Periodic Review and Treaty Bodies. 1
• Designing and delivering capacity-building initiatives for government institutions and civil society organizations. 1
• Strengthening collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries, civil society organizations, and UN partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights principles and international law. They should have experience in human rights monitoring, reporting, and technical cooperation. The ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including government officials and civil society, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, particularly in assessing compliance with international human rights standards. Proficiency in project management and results-based approaches is also required. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary for drafting reports and engaging with partners.

Educational Background:
A university degree in law, social sciences, international relations, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees are preferred and may be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid grounding in international human rights law and mechanisms, as well as familiarity with the UN system and its operations.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant professional experience in human rights, legal affairs, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in a UN context, is highly desirable. Familiarity with human rights monitoring and reporting methodologies is essential, as well as experience in capacity-building initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those spoken in Liberia or the West African region, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Monrovia, Liberia. It is essential for candidates to complete the United Nations Basic security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security course BSAFE prior to joining the office. The UN security level for Liberia is currently level 2, and all staff must adhere to security recommendations from the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS). The living conditions in Liberia include access to comfortable accommodations, healthcare facilities, and recreational options such as a gym. The role may involve travel within the country for monitoring missions and capacity-building initiatives.