Assistant Human Rights Officer

Assistant Human Rights Officer

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

August 15, 2026September 29, 2026Tunisia
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Tunisia was established following a Host Country Agreement signed between the Government of Tunisia and OHCHR in 201
  • The organization operates under the mandate provided by the General Assembly resolution A/RES/48/141 of December 1993, which established the role of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. The OHCHR Country Office is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights, working closely with various stakeholders including government institutions, civil society organizations, and the United Nations Country Team. The office's mission is to advance human rights in Tunisia, aligning with the broader goals of the United Nations, including peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and sustainable development. The OHCHR Country Office is committed to a people-centered approach, focusing on vulnerable groups and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of human rights and sustainable development goals. The office collaborates with numerous partners to enhance the effectiveness of human rights initiatives across the country.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Human Rights Officer position is designed to support the OHCHR Country Office in Tunisia by contributing to various aspects of human rights monitoring, research, analysis, capacity development, and community engagement. The role involves working under the direct supervision of a designated Human Rights Officer and entails a range of responsibilities aimed at enhancing the understanding and implementation of human rights principles within the country. The incumbent will be involved in monitoring and documenting human rights developments, particularly focusing on vulnerable and marginalized groups, and will assist in the preparation of reports and analytical summaries. Additionally, the position requires supporting capacity-building initiatives through training sessions and workshops for government officials and civil society organizations. The Assistant Human Rights Officer will also engage in community outreach activities to strengthen relationships with local NGOs and ensure that the voices of marginalized populations are heard. This role is crucial in fostering a human rights-based approach to development and ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into UN programs and initiatives in Tunisia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of tasks, including:
  • Supporting the monitoring and documentation of human rights developments in Tunisia, focusing on political, legal, and institutional changes.
  • Assisting in the collection, review, and analysis of information regarding human rights trends, particularly concerning gender equality and vulnerable groups.
  • Contributing to the preparation of reports, briefing notes, and official correspondence on human rights issues.
  • Supporting the planning and delivery of human rights training sessions and workshops for various stakeholders.
  • Assisting in the integration of human rights considerations into program planning and implementation.
  • Engaging in community outreach to strengthen ties with civil society organizations and gather perspectives from marginalized groups.
  • Supporting coordination and communication with government institutions and other partners to enhance collaboration on human rights initiatives.
  • Assisting in drafting communication materials related to human rights priorities and activities.
  • Performing any other tasks related to the mandate of the Office as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Assistant Human Rights Officer position should possess a strong understanding of human rights principles and frameworks, as well as experience in human rights monitoring and reporting. They should demonstrate excellent analytical skills and the ability to synthesize complex information into clear and concise reports. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, as the role involves drafting reports and engaging with various stakeholders. Candidates should also have experience in capacity building and training, particularly in the context of human rights education. A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Assistant Human Rights Officer position. Candidates should hold at least a bachelor's degree in human rights, international relations, law, social sciences, or a related field. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role. Educational qualifications should be complemented by a strong understanding of international human rights law and mechanisms.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in human rights monitoring, research, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of the United Nations or similar entities, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of engaging with civil society organizations and government institutions on human rights issues. Familiarity with the human rights situation in Tunisia and the broader regional context will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken English and French is mandatory for the Assistant Human Rights Officer position. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of community engagement efforts. Proficiency in additional languages may also be beneficial in this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national United Nations Volunteer assignment, and the volunteer is responsible for arranging their own accommodation and covering essential living needs. The assignment duration is specified in the Description of Assignment (DoA), with no guarantee of renewal or extension. A monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) is provided to cover accommodation, utilities, and basic living expenses, along with comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance coverage. The volunteer will also receive access to learning and development resources, annual leave, and an end-of-service allowance upon satisfactory completion of the assignment.
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