Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Digital Tech and Human Rights Section (DTHR) under the Rule of Law, Accountability and Civic Space branch (RACS) of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The OHCHR is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally, ensuring that the fundamental freedoms and rights of individuals are upheld. Established in 1993, the OHCHR operates in various countries, working with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to advance human rights standards and address violations. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that respects the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer will play a crucial role in developing and implementing policies and training programs that focus on the intersection of human rights and digital technology. This position requires collaboration with both UN and non-governmental organizations to ensure that human rights considerations are integrated into digital technology initiatives, with particular attention to gender dimensions. The officer will represent the OHCHR on matters related to human rights and digital technology, and will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating activities that relate to the implementation of international human rights instruments. This includes preparing reports for the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council, ensuring that the office remains informed about developments in human rights and technology, and making recommendations for action. The role also involves training and supervising junior staff, highlighting the importance of capacity building within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: developing and implementing policies and training programs on human rights and digital technology; collaborating with UN and non-governmental programs to integrate human rights into their initiatives; representing the OHCHR on issues related to human rights and technology; reviewing and evaluating activities related to digital technologies and their impact on human rights; supporting treaty bodies and special procedures; preparing reports and notes on human rights and digital technology; ensuring the office has up-to-date information on relevant issues; coordinating with other UN sectors and international organizations; training and supervising new staff; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of legal and human rights issues, particularly those related to the promotion and protection of human rights in the digital age. They should have experience in addressing complex human rights problems, including their political, ethnic, racial, gender, and socio-economic dimensions. A strong understanding of the institutional mandates of human rights organizations and the ability to evaluate and integrate information from various sources is essential. Candidates should demonstrate skills in training civil authorities and advocacy groups, as well as the ability to relate human rights issues to broader political, social, economic, and humanitarian programs.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. This must include at least three years of experience in policy work related to the impact of digital technologies on human rights, as well as three years of experience in drafting strategies, programs, policies, or guidelines related to digital technology. Experience in analyzing developments in AI policy and their implications for human rights is also required, along with experience in advocacy with Member States and companies regarding the impact of digital technology on human rights. It is desirable for candidates to have at least four years of experience in international organizations, such as the United Nations.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required at UN Level III, while proficiency in French is desirable at UN Level II. Candidates should demonstrate strong skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in these languages, as per the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve an initial probationary period of one year under a fixed-term appointment. The appointment is subject to the extension of the mandate and/or availability of funds. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is dedicated to ensuring that all employment decisions are made based on qualifications and organizational needs.