Human Rights Officer

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Position Title: Human Rights Officer
Location: Bentiu
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established in 2011 under the auspices of the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). The mission's primary objective is to support the peace process in South Sudan and to protect civilians. UNMISS operates under a mandate that has been renewed multiple times by the UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council, with the most recent extension being until 15 March 202

• The mission aims to prevent a return to civil war, build durable peace, and support inclusive governance and free elections. UNMISS has a significant presence with a ceiling of 17,000 troops and over 2,100 police personnel, including corrections officers. The mission is committed to addressing human rights violations and promoting accountability in South Sudan, which continues to face challenges related to peace and security.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is crucial for implementing the Work Plan of the Human Rights Division (HRD) of UNMISS. The officer will work under the direct supervision of the Field Office Team Leader or Thematic Team Leader, and will report to the Director of the HRD. The role involves conducting monitoring and fact-finding missions, drafting reports, and engaging in advocacy activities related to human rights in South Sudan. The officer will be responsible for gathering and analyzing information on human rights violations, particularly in the context of armed conflict, and will work closely with various stakeholders, including government representatives, NGOs, and civil society organizations. The position requires a proactive approach to situational awareness and the ability to respond to incidents of human rights abuses effectively. The officer will also facilitate capacity-building activities aimed at strengthening the national criminal justice system and promoting transitional justice.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Drafting communications, briefing notes, press releases, and reports on the human rights situation in South Sudan.
• Conducting capacity-building activities related to justice and transitional justice.
• Monitoring and reporting on human rights violations, including those against women and children.
• Analyzing and reporting on the impact of armed conflict on human rights.
• Coordinating with field teams to follow up on incidents requiring further investigation.
• Maintaining a database of human rights cases and delivering statistical reports.
• Conducting fact-finding missions and establishing contacts with various stakeholders.
• Ensuring the integration of gender perspectives in all human rights activities.
• Representing the UNMISS human rights office at relevant meetings. 1
• Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Human Rights Officer position must possess strong analytical and communication skills, with the ability to draft clear and concise reports. They should demonstrate a solid understanding of human rights law and international humanitarian law, as well as experience in monitoring and reporting on human rights issues. The ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and to engage in advocacy is essential. Candidates should also have a strong commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing issues related to women and children in conflict situations.

Educational Background:
A university degree in law, human rights, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is required for the Human Rights Officer position. Advanced degrees are preferred and may enhance a candidate's qualifications.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of relevant professional experience in human rights monitoring, reporting, or advocacy. Experience working in conflict or post-conflict settings, particularly in South Sudan or similar environments, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the UN system and its operations, as well as experience in capacity building and training, will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages spoken in South Sudan is an advantage and may enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bentiu, South Sudan, which is classified as a non-family duty station. Living conditions may be austere, with shared accommodation and basic facilities. Candidates should be prepared to work in challenging environments and may experience water shortages and power outages. The role may require working during evenings or weekends to meet reporting deadlines. The security situation in South Sudan can be volatile, and candidates must be able to adapt to changing conditions.