Human Rights Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Human Rights Officer
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel was established by the Human Rights Council to investigate and report on human rights violations in the region. The Commission operates under the mandate set forth in Human Rights Council Resolution A/HRC/RES/55/3

• The organization aims to uphold international human rights standards and ensure accountability for violations. It consists of a dedicated team of professionals working collaboratively to gather evidence, conduct investigations, and provide recommendations to improve human rights conditions in the occupied territories. The Commission is committed to transparency, impartiality, and the protection of victims and witnesses involved in its investigations.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer will play a crucial role in the Commission's efforts to investigate human rights violations in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel. The incumbent will be responsible for researching, collecting, and analyzing information related to acts committed by violent settlers and settler groups. This position requires close collaboration with the Investigations Team Leader and involves conducting interviews with victims and witnesses to gather corroborative evidence of violations of international human rights, humanitarian, or law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">criminal law. The officer will also monitor trends and patterns of violations, employing various tools and methodologies to support the investigation process. The role emphasizes the importance of integrating gender perspectives into all stages of the investigation and report drafting, ensuring that the Commission's work is sensitive to the needs and experiences of all affected individuals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a range of duties, including: researching and analyzing information on violent settlers and settler groups; proposing investigative methods and tools; conducting interviews with victims and witnesses; monitoring trends of human rights violations; employing mapping tools and satellite imagery for geolocation of incidents; identifying individuals responsible for acts of violence against civilians; organizing missions to sites of violations; ensuring the protection of victims and witnesses; updating the information repository; drafting analytical documents, including gender analyses; and contributing to the Commission's reports. The officer will also perform other related duties as required, demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights theories, concepts, and approaches relevant to the field. They should have the ability to identify and analyze issues, conduct independent research, and utilize various data collection methods. The role requires excellent judgment, planning, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage conflicting priorities. The officer must demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Professionalism, teamwork, and effective communication skills are essential for success in this position.

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. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complex legal and social issues surrounding human rights investigations in the region.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience in human rights investigations, with at least two years specifically focused on carrying out such investigations. Relevant experience in or on the Middle East region for at least one year is desirable, as it provides essential context and understanding of the local dynamics and challenges faced in human rights work.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Additionally, fluency in Arabic and/or Hebrew is desirable, as it would enhance communication with local populations and stakeholders involved in the investigations.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until June 30, 2025, with the possibility of extension subject to the continuation of the mandate and availability of funds. The role is classified as a temporary assignment, and candidates should be aware that this does not guarantee future employment in the same capacity. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all applicants.