Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are upheld and that governments are held accountable for their actions. The organization operates in numerous countries, focusing on various human rights issues, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. OHCHR employs a diverse workforce of professionals committed to advancing human rights and fostering a culture of respect and dignity for all individuals.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is crucial for the OHCHR in Pemba, Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. The officer will be responsible for a wide range of tasks that include monitoring and investigating compliance with international human rights and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law. This role requires the officer to analyze and manage data to inform early-warning systems, accountability measures, and policy development. The officer will draft evidence-based reports and provide strategic advice, integrating human rights perspectives into peace, humanitarian, and development planning. Additionally, the officer will advise UN leadership and national authorities on the protection of civilians, rule of law, and transitional justice. The role also involves fostering partnerships, capacity-building, and advocacy initiatives that promote 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: conducting substantive monitoring of human rights and international humanitarian law implementation; following up on recommendations from human rights mechanisms; collecting, documenting, and analyzing evidence-based information on various rights; conducting human rights monitoring and field verification missions; drafting comprehensive reports on findings and recommendations; conducting fact-finding missions to document violations of human rights; advising national counterparts on drafting technical inputs for legislation and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-sector reforms; contributing to strategies on protection of civilians and conflict-related sexual violence; engaging in fundraising and resource mobilization activities; and providing guidance to team members to promote professional development and a positive team culture.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of regional and international human rights mechanisms. They should demonstrate excellent planning, organizing, and coordination skills in a multi-stakeholder environment. The ideal candidate will show pride in their work, demonstrate professional competence, and be efficient in meeting commitments and deadlines. They should be motivated by professional concerns, show persistence in facing challenges, and remain calm under stress. Additionally, candidates must take responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

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. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related areas is required. Relevant experience may include political affairs, public affairs, international relations, law, social sciences, economics, development, humanitarian affairs, or other related fields. Candidates should also possess desirable skills in planning, organizing, and coordinating in a large multi-stakeholder environment, as well as knowledge of regional and international human rights mechanisms.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of Portuguese and Spanish is desirable, with the same proficiency levels expected.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for a minimum of three months, subject to the availability of funds. The temporary assignment provides an opportunity for the successful applicant to gain new work experience, but it does not guarantee future employment in the position. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from women and individuals from various backgrounds. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to upholding the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices.