Human Rights Officer (Investigator) P3

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 operates in various countries, focusing on human rights issues, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to the mission of promoting human dignity and justice. The OHCHR is committed to addressing human rights violations and advocating for the rights of marginalized and vulnerable populations. It engages with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to foster a culture of respect for human rights. The OHCHR is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and has regional offices around the world, including in Vienna, where this position is based.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer (Investigator) will play a crucial role in the Group of independent experts on the situation of human rights in Belarus, as mandated by the Human Rights Council. This position involves conducting thorough investigations into allegations of human rights violations, utilizing various research methods and tools to gather and analyze information. The incumbent will work closely with the Investigation Team Leader and the Coordinator of the Secretariat to ensure that investigations are conducted in a timely and effective manner. The role requires a strong understanding of international human rights law and the ability to navigate complex political and social contexts. The officer will be responsible for drafting reports and analytical documents, ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into all aspects of the investigation. The position demands a high level of professionalism, teamwork, and the ability to work under pressure while maintaining a commitment to ethical standards and the protection of victims and witnesses.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer (Investigator) will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: researching, collecting, and analyzing information related to human rights violations; conducting interviews with victims and witnesses; monitoring trends and patterns of violations; employing various tools for geolocation and authenticity assessment of evidence; identifying alleged perpetrators; organizing and participating in field missions; ensuring the protection of victims and witnesses; drafting analytical documents and reports; and integrating gender-sensitive approaches throughout the investigation process. The officer will also be expected to collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders to achieve organizational goals and contribute to the overall mission of the OHCHR.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a deep knowledge of international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law. They should demonstrate strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to identify and resolve human rights issues effectively. The role requires excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Candidates should also exhibit a commitment to gender equality and the protection of vulnerable populations.

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 two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights law and the socio-political factors that influence human rights situations.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience in the field of human rights is required. This includes at least two years of experience specifically focused on conducting investigations into violations of international human rights law and/or international criminal law. Relevant experience working in or on the region of Belarus is highly desirable, as it provides valuable context and understanding of the local dynamics affecting human rights.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, with English being mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Russian is desirable, as it may facilitate communication and understanding in the context of investigations related to Belarus. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and resources.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until the 31st of December 2026, subject to the availability of funds and/or extension of the mandate. It is important to note that current staff members holding a fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointment may apply for temporary positions only if they meet specific eligibility criteria. The position is classified at the P-3 level, and candidates should be aware that the selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging female candidates and individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.