Human Rights Officer/Security Sector Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Group of independent experts on the human rights situation in Belarus, which operates under the mandate of the Human Rights Council Resolution A/HRC/RES/61/2

• This group is based in Vienna, Austria, and is part of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The OHCHR is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally, working to ensure that international human rights standards are upheld and that violations are addressed. The organization engages in various activities, including monitoring human rights situations, providing technical assistance, and supporting the implementation of human rights treaties. The OHCHR employs a diverse team of professionals and operates in multiple countries, focusing on various human rights issues.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer/security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Sector Adviser will play a crucial role in the Group of independent experts on Belarus, focusing on the investigation and analysis of human rights violations within the security sector. The incumbent will be responsible for researching and collecting information related to human rights and international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">criminal law, advising on police procedures, and conducting investigations into allegations of violations. This position requires a deep understanding of the political, ethnic, and socio-economic dimensions of human rights issues, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders. The role also emphasizes the importance of integrating gender perspectives into all aspects of the investigation and reporting processes, ensuring that the voices of victims and witnesses are heard and protected.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer/Security Sector Adviser will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including: researching and analyzing information related to human rights and international criminal law; gathering and mapping the State police structure; advising on police procedures and methods; conducting investigations through interviews with victims, witnesses, and law enforcement officers; monitoring trends and patterns of human rights violations; employing various tools for geolocation and authenticity assessment of collected materials; identifying alleged perpetrators; organizing missions to sites of violations; ensuring the protection of victims and witnesses; drafting analytical documents, including gender analyses; and contributing to the Group's reports. The incumbent will also be expected to perform other related duties as required, demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and accountability throughout their work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law, with the ability to identify and address related issues. They should have excellent research and analytical skills, the ability to evaluate and integrate information from diverse sources, and a commitment to gender equality in their work. The role requires a high level of professionalism, including the ability to meet deadlines and deliver quality outputs. Teamwork and collaboration are essential, as the incumbent will work closely with colleagues and stakeholders to achieve organizational goals. Accountability is also a key competency, with an emphasis on taking ownership of responsibilities and delivering results.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complex legal and political frameworks within which human rights operate.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. Additionally, at least two years of experience in conducting investigations of violations of international human rights law or international criminal law is necessary. Experience in gathering and analyzing information related to law enforcement structures and advising on police procedures is desirable. Relevant working experience in or on the region of Belarus is also considered an asset, as it provides valuable context for the role.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Russian (both oral and written) is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages. Knowledge of another UN language is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the international context of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2026, and is subject to the availability of funds and/or extension of the mandate. 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, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including women and individuals with disabilities. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its staff.