Human Rights Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Human Rights Officer
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
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 and is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are respected and upheld in accordance with international human rights standards. The organization operates in numerous countries around the world, engaging with various stakeholders including governments, civil society, and international organizations to address human rights issues. OHCHR employs a diverse workforce of professionals committed to advancing human rights and fostering a culture of respect and dignity for all individuals.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is situated within the Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures and Right to Development Division (TESPRDD) of OHCHR, specifically focusing on the intersection of human rights and digital technology. The officer will be responsible for developing and implementing policies and programs that address human rights concerns related to digital technology. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of international human rights instruments and the ability to evaluate their implementation. The officer will also support treaty bodies and special procedures, organize consultations, and work collaboratively with UN and non-governmental programs to integrate human rights considerations into their initiatives. The position demands a proactive approach to monitoring and reporting on human rights issues, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations in the digital environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and implementing policies and programs on human rights and digital technology; reviewing and evaluating activities related to international human rights instruments; supporting treaty bodies and special procedures; organizing regional consultations to assess risks to children's safety in the digital environment; preparing reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council; collaborating with UN and non-governmental organizations to integrate human rights into their programs; ensuring up-to-date information on human rights and digital technology; representing the Office on relevant matters; coordinating with other UN sectors and international organizations; developing training programs; supervising junior staff; and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in human rights, political affairs, international relations, or law. The position requires knowledge of human rights issues related to digital technology and the ability to address complex human rights problems. Candidates should demonstrate skills in evaluating information from various sources, conducting in-depth studies, and training civil authorities. The ability to analyze and interpret data is essential, as is the capacity to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders.

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. Experience in policy work related to the impact of digital technologies on human rights is desirable, as is experience in advocacy with Member States and companies regarding these issues.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position. Knowledge of French is also necessary, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Proficiency in another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for six months, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds. Current staff members holding a fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointment may apply for temporary positions no more than one level above their current grade. 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 reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.