UN Human Rights Officer / Sustainable Development Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the Regional Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which is part of the United Nations. The OHCHR was established to promote and protect human rights globally. It operates in various regions, including Bangkok and Pretoria, and works with member states and other organizations to ensure adherence to international human rights standards. The OHCHR's mission includes providing guidance on human rights issues, supporting the implementation of human rights policies, and fostering cooperation among nations to uphold human rights. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in its operations.

Job Overview:
The UN Human Rights Officer / Sustainable Development Advisor will play a crucial role in assisting the OHCHR at the regional level. The incumbent will provide analysis and advice on policy, programming, and capacity development related to human rights-based economic and social policies. This position involves integrating human rights into State and UN development policies and practices, as well as contributing to the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The officer will be responsible for reviewing and evaluating activities related to the implementation of international human rights instruments and will prepare relevant reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, governments, and non-governmental organizations, to ensure that human rights considerations are embedded in development programs. The officer will also be responsible for training and supervising junior staff, ensuring that human rights perspectives are integrated into all aspects of development policy and practice.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Human Rights Officer include: assisting the OHCHR at the regional level; providing analysis and advice on human rights-based economic and social policies; advising on the integration of human rights into State and UN development policies; providing policy advice and technical assistance to strengthen national capacities; reviewing and evaluating activities related to international human rights instruments; preparing reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council; collaborating with UN agencies and other stakeholders; ensuring up-to-date information on economic policy and human rights; coordinating with the Sustainable Development Section in Geneva; developing and implementing training programs; and supervising new or junior staff. The officer will also be expected to perform other related duties as required, demonstrating professionalism, communication skills, and teamwork throughout their work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of human rights and economic policy issues, including approaches to address complex human rights problems. They should have the ability to evaluate and integrate information from various sources and assess the impact on human rights situations. Skills in training civil authorities and advocacy groups are essential, as well as the ability to relate human rights issues to broader political, social, and economic contexts. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and teamwork skills, showing a commitment to achieving organizational goals and valuing the input of others.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, development economics, 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. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights and development issues.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or development economics is required. At least three years of this experience must involve integrating human rights into sustainable development policies and programs at the regional or national level. Candidates should also have experience in research, analysis, and drafting reports related to human rights and development financing, demonstrating a strong understanding of the field.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French would be considered an asset, although it is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is available for an initial period of one year and is subject to the availability of funding. The United Nations encourages applications from candidates from unrepresented or under-represented member states. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that they may be subject to reference checks and that all employment decisions are made based on qualifications and organizational needs.