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. It was founded in 1993 and operates in various countries, including Colombia, where it focuses on addressing human rights issues and supporting the implementation of international human rights standards. The OHCHR aims to ensure that human rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled, and it works with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to achieve these goals. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to human rights advocacy and monitoring, and it plays a crucial role in promoting accountability and justice for human rights violations.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position at OHCHR in Bogota, Colombia, involves significant responsibilities related to the Civic Space and People’s Participation strategy. The officer will coordinate activities that ensure effective collaboration within the office and with external stakeholders. This role requires a deep understanding of international human rights instruments and the ability to monitor and evaluate their implementation. The officer will engage with various entities, including UN staff, national officials, and civil society organizations, to promote a safe environment for human rights defenders. The position also entails preparing reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council, ensuring that human rights considerations are integrated into UN and non-governmental programs in Colombia. The officer will be expected to provide recommendations based on up-to-date information regarding human rights issues and to assist in training programs for military and police personnel, emphasizing the importance of gender perspectives in human rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for planning and coordinating activities related to the Civic Space and People’s Participation strategy. Key responsibilities include reviewing and evaluating activities related to international human rights instruments, supporting treaty bodies and mechanisms, preparing human rights reports, and engaging with various stakeholders to plan and review projects. The officer will ensure the integration of human rights into programs, provide recommendations on actions to take, and assist in developing training programs for military and police. Additionally, the officer will lead a team, supervise junior staff, and perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of human rights issues, particularly regarding civic space and the right to participation. They should demonstrate the ability to evaluate and integrate information from various sources and assess its impact on human rights situations. Skills in training civil authorities and advocacy groups are essential, as is the ability to relate human rights issues to broader political, social, and economic contexts. Candidates should show professionalism, effective communication skills, and accountability in their work.

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 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. Experience in human rights monitoring, analysis, advocacy, and reporting is desirable, as is experience working with human rights defenders.

Languages:
English and Spanish are required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages at UN Level III. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability. The role is classified as a temporary assignment, and candidates must be aware that it does not guarantee future employment with the organization. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, and reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are encouraged to follow all application instructions carefully.