Consultant in Sea-Level Rise and Human Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The organization posting this job is the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Established in 1993, OHCHR is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. It operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members who work on various human rights issues, including climate change and its implications on human rights. The organization aims to ensure that human rights are integrated into all aspects of international and national policies, particularly in the context of environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The consultant will work from September 15, 2026, to December 31, 2026, focusing on the intersection of sea-level rise and human rights. This role is crucial as it addresses the increasing risks posed by climate change, particularly for vulnerable populations in small island developing states and low-lying coastal areas. The consultant will be responsible for developing practical tools that assist OHCHR staff in providing technical assistance and capacity-building related to the human rights implications of sea-level rise. This includes creating resources that respect and integrate Indigenous Peoples' knowledge and local systems, aligning with the International Court of Justice's Advisory Opinion on climate change. The consultant will also engage in consultations and feedback processes to ensure the tools developed are relevant and effective.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include:

• Preparing a comprehensive workplan that outlines the project timeline and milestones.
• Reviewing and mapping existing materials from OHCHR, the UN, and other relevant organizations regarding sea-level rise and human rights, identifying gaps and areas needing further guidance.
• Developing a human rights-based checklist for evaluating laws, policies, and programs related to sea-level rise, focusing on adaptation measures.
• Crafting key messages that highlight the relationship between sea-level rise and human rights, particularly in adaptation contexts.
• Creating a briefing package that includes presentation slides and talking points to aid OHCHR staff in their technical cooperation and engagement efforts.
• Conducting targeted consultations with OHCHR, other UN agencies, and external stakeholders to gather feedback and incorporate it into the final deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least five years of professional experience in human rights and environmental issues. Experience in human mobility, disaster risk reduction, climate change, and sea-level rise, particularly concerning Indigenous Peoples' rights, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is an advantage, as is experience working in a multilateral environment. The role requires a strong understanding of human rights standards and the ability to translate these into practical applications.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not detailed, candidates are typically expected to have advanced degrees in fields related to human rights, environmental science, law, or social sciences. A strong academic background in these areas will support the consultant's ability to effectively engage with the complexities of human rights and climate change.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience. This experience should encompass work related to human rights, environmental issues, and climate change, with a focus on the implications of these issues for vulnerable populations. Previous involvement in projects or roles that intersect with human mobility and disaster risk reduction will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions affected by sea-level rise, would be advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is set to run from September 15, 2026, to December 31, 202

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interviews, or training. This position is likely to be full-time and may involve remote work, depending on the consultant's home country.