Human Rights Officer (Gender/Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Specialist)

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Position Title: Human Rights Officer (Gender/Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Specialist)
Location: Kinshasa
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are respected and upheld, providing guidance and support to governments and organizations in their efforts to comply with international human rights standards. The organization operates in numerous countries, focusing on various human rights issues, including gender equality, freedom from discrimination, and the protection of vulnerable populations. The OHCHR is committed to fostering a culture of respect for human rights and aims to empower individuals and communities to claim their rights and hold duty bearers accountable. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to advancing human rights and operates in various regions, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer (Gender/Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Specialist) will play a crucial role in advising the Secretariat on the gender dimensions of human rights violations. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of gender issues and the ability to integrate a gender perspective into the work of the Team for Technical Assistance to the DRC Government. The incumbent will be responsible for collecting and analyzing information related to women's human rights and gender issues, ensuring proper documentation and assessment of the gender-specific impact of human rights violations. The role involves planning and coordinating activities related to thematic and country mandates on human rights, conducting substantive research and analysis, and providing support to various human rights bodies. The officer will also be tasked with developing training programs for military and police personnel, supervising field verification work, and representing the UN human rights program at meetings. This position demands a proactive approach to integrating human rights issues into political, humanitarian, and economic efforts, with a strong emphasis on gender equality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including advising on gender dimensions of human rights violations, conducting gender analysis, and training in evidence gathering. The officer will collect and document information on human rights violations, ensuring that gender-specific impacts are assessed and reported. Responsibilities also include planning and coordinating human rights activities, conducting research and analysis of human rights issues, and collecting gender-specific data. The officer will support sub-commissions and follow up on the implementation of decisions made by policy-making bodies. Additionally, the role involves defining work plans, assisting in training programs for military and police, supervising field verification work, and writing reports and communications. The officer will also analyze data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of human rights issues, particularly in relation to gender equality and the socio-economic dimensions of human rights violations. The ability to conduct research and analyze information is essential, as is the capacity to draft comprehensive human rights reports. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. A commitment to integrating gender perspectives into all areas of work is crucial, as is the ability to remain calm and efficient under pressure.

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 five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. Candidates must have experience in gathering evidence and interviewing victims, particularly in cases of sexual and gender-based crimes. Experience in providing gender analysis to human rights investigative bodies or international tribunals is desirable, indicating a strong background in both human rights and gender issues.

Languages:
Fluency in French, both oral and written, is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of English is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the UN system and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available with the possibility of extension, subject to the availability of funds. Current staff members holding fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointments may apply for temporary positions, provided they meet eligibility requirements. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to provide complete and accurate information in their applications. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and will provide reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities upon request.