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 engages with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on human rights issues, providing technical assistance, and supporting the implementation of international human rights standards. The OHCHR aims to create a world where everyone can enjoy their rights and freedoms without discrimination. It employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to advancing human rights and fostering a culture of accountability and justice.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is critical within the OHCHR Country Office in Sudan, specifically in leading the Civic Space team. The incumbent will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of human rights and international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law, ensuring compliance with recommendations from various human rights mechanisms. This role involves coordinating the collection and documentation of evidence-based information on various rights, including civil, cultural, economic, social, and political rights. The officer will also produce substantive reports and provide technical support to strengthen national and regional human rights systems. Additionally, the role requires designing and delivering capacity-building programs for various stakeholders, including state institutions and civil society, with a focus on gender integration and inclusivity. The Human Rights Officer will engage with youth networks to advocate for youth rights and will support strategic initiatives to combat discrimination and promote human rights through advocacy and outreach activities. The position demands strong leadership and management skills to coordinate the team's activities effectively and ensure that all responsibilities are met in a timely manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: leading and coordinating the monitoring of human rights implementation; managing the collection and quality control of human rights data; producing and reviewing human rights reports and analytical papers; providing substantive advice and technical support to strengthen human rights systems; designing and delivering capacity-building programs; advising civil society on integrating human rights into various frameworks; engaging with youth networks for advocacy; supporting strategic direction to combat discrimination; promoting human rights through advocacy and outreach; managing team activities, including hiring and training; and planning and managing resources for projects and activities. The officer will also be responsible for ensuring that all work is conducted with a gender perspective and that the principle of leaving no one behind is upheld.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as human rights, law, political science, international relations, social sciences, economics, public policy, sustainable development, or humanitarian affairs. Alternatively, 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 7 years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related areas, with relevant experience in political affairs, public affairs, international relations, law, social sciences, or humanitarian affairs being highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate strong planning, organizing, and coordination skills in a multi-stakeholder environment, along with knowledge of international human rights law and skills in drafting reports and policies.

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, humanitarian affairs, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree, allowing for flexibility in educational qualifications while still ensuring that candidates have the necessary knowledge and skills for the role.

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 have demonstrated skills in planning, organizing, and coordinating activities in a large multi-stakeholder environment, as well as a solid understanding of international human rights law, norms, and standards. Experience in drafting human rights reports and policies is essential, along with skills in designing and evaluating capacity-building and training programs.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English is mandatory, with a required UN Level II proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable, with a UN Level I proficiency expected. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and fulfill the responsibilities of the role effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. It is a 'Recruit from Roster' job opening, meaning it is only open to applicants who are already placed on pre-approved rosters. Candidates are expected to accept the offer if selected. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly and without discrimination. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.