Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a United Nations entity established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR operates in various countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, where it monitors human rights situations and engages with local authorities and stakeholders to advance human rights. The organization aims to integrate human rights into the work of the United Nations country team and has a mission to ensure that human rights are upheld and protected in all circumstances. The OHCHR is committed to fostering a culture of respect for human rights and operates with a diverse team of professionals dedicated to this cause.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is critical in implementing the OHCHR's activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in the areas of transitional justice and countering hate speech. The incumbent will be responsible for monitoring and analyzing developments related to human rights, engaging with authorities and stakeholders, and advocating for the promotion of human rights. This role requires a deep understanding of international human rights law and the ability to communicate complex issues effectively. The Human Rights Officer will also contribute to reporting and provide technical advice to civil society organizations, ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into various sectors, including protection and rule of law. The position demands strategic thinking, collaboration, and the ability to work in a multi-stakeholder environment, making it essential for the officer to be proactive and responsive to emerging human rights challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: conducting substantive monitoring of human rights and international humanitarian law implementation; following up on recommendations from human rights mechanisms; collecting and analyzing evidence-based information on various rights; drafting and disseminating human rights reports and briefings; providing advisory support to civil society; engaging with UN leadership on human rights integration; promoting transitional justice processes; supporting treaty bodies and special procedures; and conducting advocacy and outreach activities. The officer must maintain confidentiality and integrity while handling sensitive information, ensuring compliance with UN data privacy and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in human rights law, norms, and standards, as well as knowledge of regional and international human rights mechanisms. The role requires strategic thinking, collaborative working skills, and the ability to plan and organize effectively in a complex environment. Excellent communication skills are essential, as the officer will need to convey complex information to diverse audiences. Familiarity with human rights monitoring, documentation, analysis, and reporting methodologies is also required, along with the ability to draft comprehensive reports and policy documents.

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 five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights or related fields is required. Relevant experience may include political affairs, public affairs, international relations, law, social sciences, economics, development, or humanitarian affairs. Candidates should demonstrate strategic thinking skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multi-stakeholder environment. Knowledge of international human rights law and mechanisms is essential, along with skills in communication and human rights monitoring methodologies.

Languages:
English is required, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, proficiency in either Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian at UN Level III is required. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is crucial for the role, as it involves engaging with local stakeholders and civil society organizations.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for 26 weeks, subject to the availability of funds. Candidates must be nationals of Bosnia and Herzegovina to apply for this National Professional Officer category position. The role is classified as temporary, and while it may provide valuable experience, it does not guarantee future employment. The United Nations emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process and does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.