Human Rights Officer

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Position Title: Human Rights Officer
Location: Juba, Bentiu, Bor, Malakal, Wau
Country: Sudan
Deadline Date: 15 March 2024

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). Its mission is to support the establishment of peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in South Sudan, which has faced ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises. The organization operates with a mandate that has been renewed multiple times by the UN Security Council, with the latest resolution extending its mandate until March 202

• UNMISS aims to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian assistance, and support the implementation of peace agreements. The mission employs a significant number of personnel, including uniformed troops and police, to carry out its objectives across various regions in South Sudan.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is critical within the UNMISS framework, focusing on the monitoring, investigation, and reporting of human rights violations in South Sudan. The officer will work under the direct supervision of the Field Office Team Leader or Thematic Team Leader, contributing to the implementation of the Human Rights Division's work plan. This role involves conducting monitoring and fact-finding missions, drafting reports, and engaging in advocacy activities. The officer will also be responsible for capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening the national justice system and promoting transitional justice. The position requires a proactive approach to gathering and analyzing data on human rights situations, particularly in conflict-affected areas, and ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into all activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will have a comprehensive set 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, including advising national counterparts and organizing workshops.
• Monitoring and reporting on human rights violations, particularly those related to armed conflict, and collaborating with field teams and other UN actors.
• Identifying incidents requiring further investigation and coordinating follow-ups with field teams.
• Conducting fact-finding missions and investigations into human rights abuses.
• Maintaining contacts with government representatives, NGOs, and civil society organizations.
• Ensuring accurate entry of human rights cases into databases and delivering statistical reports.
• Undertaking risk assessments and monitoring the implementation of mitigating measures.
• Representing the UNMISS human rights office at relevant meetings. 1
• Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to draft reports and engage in advocacy. They should have 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, including government entities and civil society, is essential. Candidates should also exhibit adaptability and resilience in challenging environments.

Educational Background:
A university degree in law, human rights, social sciences, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights or international law will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in human rights monitoring, reporting, or advocacy. Experience working in conflict or post-conflict settings, particularly in Africa, is highly desirable. Familiarity with UN mechanisms and procedures related to human rights is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Arabic or other local languages is an asset and will be considered a plus.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a non-family duty station, and candidates should be prepared for austere living conditions, including shared accommodation and limited access to amenities. The role may require working in challenging environments with potential security risks. The contract duration is linked to the UNMISS mandate, with the current extension until March 202

• Candidates should be aware of the tropical climate and the rainy season, which may affect living conditions.