Public Information Officer

Public Information Officer

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

August 17, 2026September 18, 2026Cambodia
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is dedicated to the promotion and protection of human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR operates in numerous countries, with a mission to empower individuals to realize their rights and assist governments in fulfilling their obligations to uphold these rights. The Cambodia Country Office is the oldest field presence of OHCHR, focusing on three core areas: the Rule of Law, Economic and Social Rights, and Civil Society and Fundamental Freedoms. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals committed to advancing human rights and operates in various countries to ensure the protection of human rights for all people.

Job Overview:
The Public Information Officer will play a crucial role in the OHCHR Cambodia Country Office, working directly under the supervision of the Country Representative. This position involves overseeing the communications activities of the office, which includes public communications, campaigns, and media monitoring. The officer will be responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with local and international media, drafting press releases, preparing media reviews, and participating in meetings and missions. The role requires collaboration with programmatic units and the United Nations Communications Group to develop strategies and implement campaigns on significant calendar days, such as Human Rights Day. The officer will also provide advice on media trends relevant to the office's mandate and draft human interest stories to highlight human rights issues in Cambodia. This position demands a proactive approach to communication and a commitment to promoting human rights through effective media engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Information Officer will undertake a variety of tasks, including: establishing and maintaining regular contact with local and international media; coordinating communications tasks and campaigns with programmatic units; drafting press releases and media responses; preparing daily media reviews; providing photographic support and drafting social media posts during meetings and missions; collaborating with the United Nations Communications Group; developing strategies for campaigns on critical calendar days; advising unit heads and management on media developments; drafting human interest web stories; liaising with communications counterparts at OHCHR Headquarters; and carrying out additional tasks as requested by the Country Representative. Furthermore, the officer is expected to strengthen their understanding of volunteerism, participate in UNV activities, contribute articles for publications, assist with the UNV Buddy Programme, and promote online volunteering.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Public Information Officer position should possess a strong background in communications, public relations, or a related field. They should demonstrate expertise in media engagement and have a proven ability to draft clear and concise communications materials. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a multicultural environment and possess strong interpersonal skills. They should be capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously and have a commitment to the principles of human rights and volunteerism. A high degree of professionalism, integrity, and accountability is essential, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field is required for the Public Information Officer position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights, international relations, or a related discipline may be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of human rights issues and the ability to communicate effectively about these topics.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in communications, public relations, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of human rights, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to engage with media and produce high-quality communications materials under tight deadlines.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, both spoken and written. Knowledge of Khmer or other languages relevant to the region is considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The Public Information Officer position is a full-time role based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The living conditions in Cambodia are characterized by a tropical climate, with a rainy season from May to October and a hot, dry season from November to April. The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security level in Cambodia is categorized as level 1, indicating a low risk. Housing options are available to suit various budgets, and transportation is commonly done via tuk-tuks. Health precautions are necessary, including vaccinations for common tropical diseases. The UN Volunteer Conditions of Service provide comprehensive details on entitlements and benefits for volunteers.
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