Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR operates in various regions, including East and Southern Africa, where it focuses on ensuring compliance with international human rights standards and addressing human rights violations. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with multiple stakeholders to advance human rights initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position at the OHCHR Regional Hub for East and Southern Africa involves a multifaceted role that includes monitoring and investigating compliance with international human rights and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law. The incumbent will analyze and manage data to inform early-warning systems, accountability measures, and policy development. The role requires drafting evidence-based reports and providing strategic advice while integrating human rights perspectives into peace, humanitarian, and development planning. The officer will also advise UN leadership and national authorities on the protection of civilians, rule of law, and transitional justice, fostering partnerships and capacity-building initiatives that promote equality and accountability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for conducting substantive monitoring of human rights implementation and ensuring compliance with recommendations from various human rights mechanisms. This includes collecting, documenting, and analyzing evidence-based information on civil, cultural, economic, social, and political rights. The officer will draft and disseminate human rights reports and analytical papers, provide advisory support to strengthen national human rights systems, and design capacity-building programs for various stakeholders. Additionally, the officer will contribute to human rights mainstreaming efforts, provide technical assistance on justice and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues, and engage in advocacy and outreach activities to promote human rights.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of international human rights law, monitoring methodologies, and the application of economic, social, and cultural rights. Skills in drafting reports and designing capacity-building programs are essential. The ability to build partnerships and demonstrate critical thinking is required, along with a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in human rights, law, political science, international relations, social sciences, economics, public policy, sustainable development, or humanitarian affairs is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related fields is required. Candidates should have experience in designing and evaluating training programs, drafting human rights reports, and knowledge of human rights monitoring and reporting methodologies. Familiarity with regional and international human rights mechanisms is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is categorized under the National Professional Officer category, meaning candidates must be nationals of Ethiopia. The United Nations emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.