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 respected and upheld, and it plays a crucial role in addressing human rights violations and promoting accountability. The organization operates in various regions around the world, including West Africa, where it focuses on regional human rights issues and collaborates with national authorities and civil society organizations. The OHCHR is committed to advancing human rights through advocacy, capacity-building, and the integration of human rights perspectives into development and humanitarian efforts. The West Africa Regional Office (WARO) is specifically tasked with addressing human rights challenges in the West African region, working closely with local stakeholders to promote human rights and support the implementation of international human rights standards.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is a critical role within the OHCHR's West Africa Regional Office, located in Dakar, Senegal. The officer will report directly to the Regional Representative and will be responsible for a wide range of tasks aimed at promoting and protecting human rights in the region. This includes monitoring and investigating compliance with international human rights and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law, analyzing data to inform policy and accountability measures, and drafting evidence-based reports. The officer will also integrate human rights perspectives into peace, humanitarian, and development planning, advising UN leadership and national authorities on issues such as the protection of civilians, rule of law, and transitional justice. Additionally, the role involves fostering partnerships and capacity-building initiatives that advance equality and accountability, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of human rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Leading and coordinating the monitoring of human rights and international humanitarian law implementation, ensuring follow-up on recommendations from various human rights mechanisms.
• Managing the collection and documentation of evidence-based information on various rights, supporting early warning and accountability efforts.
• Conducting analysis and preparing analytical papers to inform human rights strategies and decision-making processes.
• Providing substantive advice and technical support to strengthen national and regional human rights systems and frameworks.
• Conducting research and providing policy advice on human rights issues related to economic policy and sustainable development.
• Engaging with youth networks to advocate for youth rights and participation in decision-making processes.
• Managing fundraising and resource mobilization activities to support the Office's goals.
• Delivering training programs and workshops to enhance the capacity of UN staff and partners.
• Planning and managing resources for various projects and activities. 1
• Guiding team members to promote professional development and a positive team culture.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• 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. A first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related fields, such as political affairs, public affairs, international relations, law, social sciences, or humanitarian affairs.
• Proven ability to mobilize support from a wide range of partners and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of child protection frameworks and human rights monitoring methodologies.
• Skills to integrate a human rights-based approach and gender equality into all areas of work.
• Project management skills are desirable, along with knowledge of regional and international human rights mechanisms.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as human rights, law, political science, international relations, social sciences, economics, public policy, sustainable development, or humanitarian affairs. Candidates with a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may also be considered. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related areas. This experience should encompass various aspects of political affairs, public affairs, international relations, law, social sciences, economics, development, and humanitarian affairs. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to mobilize support from diverse partners and stakeholders, as well as their knowledge of child protection frameworks and human rights mechanisms. Relevant experience in project management and human rights monitoring methodologies is also advantageous.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in French is required, while English is considered desirable. Candidates must demonstrate their language skills according to the UN Language Framework, which includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking competencies at the required levels for both languages. This linguistic proficiency is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the UN system and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for five months, with the possibility of extension based on operational needs and funding availability. Candidates should be aware that current staff members holding fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointments may apply for temporary positions, but there are specific eligibility criteria that must be met. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and all employment decisions are made based on qualifications and organizational needs.