Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Regional Hub for Central and West Africa (RHCWA) within the Global Operations Division (GLO) of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The OHCHR is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally, ensuring that international human rights standards are upheld and that individuals can enjoy their rights without discrimination. The organization operates in various countries, focusing on human rights issues and providing support to national authorities and civil society organizations. The OHCHR aims to foster a culture of respect for human rights and to empower individuals and communities to claim their rights. The office in Brazzaville serves as a critical point for coordinating efforts in the region, working closely with local and international partners to address human rights challenges.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer will play a vital role in monitoring and investigating compliance with international human rights and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law. The incumbent will be responsible for analyzing and managing data to inform early-warning systems, accountability measures, and policy development. This position requires drafting evidence-based reports and providing strategic advice to UN leadership and national authorities on critical issues such as the protection of civilians, rule of law, and transitional justice. The officer will also integrate human rights perspectives into peace, humanitarian, and development planning, ensuring that the principles of equality and accountability are upheld. The role involves fostering partnerships, capacity-building, and advocacy initiatives aimed at promoting human rights and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of development and justice.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will conduct substantive monitoring of human rights implementation and follow up on recommendations from various human rights mechanisms. Responsibilities include collecting, documenting, and analyzing evidence-based information on various rights, advising national counterparts on drafting technical inputs for legal reforms, and providing support to treaty bodies and special procedures. The officer will engage in fundraising and resource mobilization activities, promote human rights through advocacy, and deliver training programs to enhance the capacity of UN staff and partners. Additionally, the officer will supervise team activities, provide technical guidance, and ensure that all outputs are delivered on time while fostering a positive team culture.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The position requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related areas, including political affairs, public affairs, international relations, law, social sciences, economics, or humanitarian affairs. Project management skills and knowledge of regional and international human rights mechanisms are essential, along with skills in designing and evaluating capacity-building programs.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related area is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of human rights law and its application in various contexts.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related fields is required. Relevant experience may include political affairs, public affairs, international relations, law, social sciences, economics, development, or humanitarian affairs. Candidates should demonstrate project management skills and a strong understanding of regional and international human rights mechanisms. Experience in designing, delivering, and evaluating capacity-building and training programs is also necessary, as well as the ability to build and maintain partnerships with various stakeholders.

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 meet the minimum required level for each skill in these languages according to the UN Language Framework, which includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is subject to the extension of the mandate and/or availability of funds. The selected candidate will be granted a fixed-term appointment limited (FTA-limited) in accordance with the administrative instruction on fixed-term appointments. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from women and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities may be provided to support participation in the recruitment process. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.