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 the rights of individuals are upheld and that governments are held accountable for their actions. The organization engages in various activities, including monitoring human rights situations, providing technical assistance, and advocating for the implementation of international human rights standards. The OHCHR operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to the mission of promoting human rights for all individuals, regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is crucial for advancing the economic, social, and cultural rights agenda within the OHCHR's Regional Office for East and Southern Africa. The incumbent will serve as the regional lead and focal point, contributing to the development of evidence-based work that supports the enjoyment of these rights. This role involves engaging with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, national officials, and civil society, to plan and review projects, share information, and advocate for human rights. The officer will also monitor the implementation of international human rights instruments and prepare reports for key UN bodies. The position requires a deep understanding of human rights issues, particularly in the context of economic, social, and cultural rights, and the ability to provide strategic advice to senior leadership.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: serving as the regional lead for economic, social, and cultural rights; developing policy papers and advocacy messaging; monitoring the implementation of cultural rights; preparing reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council; engaging with stakeholders to plan and review projects; integrating human rights into UN and non-governmental programs; providing advice to senior leadership; coordinating with other UN sectors; assisting governments and civil society in training and education; leading a team and managing administrative functions; and supervising new or junior staff. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying human rights issues and developing solutions, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, economics, or public policy. The position requires advanced knowledge of economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as the ability to analyze complex human rights issues. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, planning and organizing skills, and the ability to manage performance effectively. The role demands a commitment to gender equality and the ability to work in a multicultural environment. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for engaging with various stakeholders and advocating for human rights.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, economics, data science, public policy, 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. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, economics, public policy, or a related area is required. At least five years of experience specifically in the field of cultural rights is necessary. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of experience managing a multidisciplinary team within the United Nations or a similar setting. Experience working with governments and national stakeholders, including providing technical assistance and capacity-building, is desirable and will enhance the candidate's ability to fulfill the responsibilities of this role.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is an asset and may be beneficial for engaging with a broader range of stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is part of the United Nations' commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented member states. The recruitment process emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Candidates must adhere to the UN's policies regarding human rights violations and other misconduct. The position may involve an initial probationary period of one year, and applicants are advised to follow all instructions in the online recruitment platform. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.