Human Rights Officer

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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, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the fundamental freedoms and rights of individuals are respected and upheld. It operates in various countries and regions, engaging with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address human rights violations and promote accountability. The organization is committed to the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and the rule of law, and it plays a crucial role in the UN's efforts to foster a culture of human rights worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is situated within the Anti-Racial Discrimination Section of the OHCHR, specifically under the Rule of Law Equality and Non-Discrimination Branch. The incumbent will be responsible for supporting the section's mandate, which includes addressing issues of racial discrimination and promoting equality. The role requires a strong understanding of human rights issues, particularly those related to race and gender. The officer will conduct substantive research and analysis on human rights situations, assess their impacts, and ensure that gender perspectives are integrated into all activities. The position also involves developing training programs, supervising field verification work, and representing the section in meetings. The Human Rights Officer will be expected to produce various reports and communications, contributing to policy-making processes and capacity-building efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: planning and implementing activities related to the section's mandate; conducting research and analysis on human rights issues; collecting and analyzing human rights data, including gender-specific indicators; integrating human rights considerations into political and economic efforts; defining work plans in accordance with established terms of reference; assisting in the development of training programs on human rights and democracy; supervising field verification work; representing the section at meetings; directing capacity-building efforts; writing reports and communications; providing guidance to junior staff; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of human rights issues, particularly in relation to political, ethnic, racial, and gender equality dimensions. They should have a good understanding of the institutional mandates of human rights organizations and prevailing policies. Research and analytical skills are essential, as is the ability to draft human rights reports and evaluate information from various sources. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. They must also show a commitment to incorporating gender perspectives into their work and ensuring equal participation of all genders.

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. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks that govern them.

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 with experience specifically related to racism or similar issues will be viewed favorably. Additionally, experience working with UN human rights mechanisms is desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the operational context of the OHCHR and its mandates.

Languages:
Fluency in one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat, either English or French, is required, both orally and in writing. Knowledge of the other language is desirable, as it enhances communication within the UN system. Proficiency in another UN official language is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate broader engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in its workforce, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply to promote gender balance within the organization. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the UN does not require any fees at any stage of the application process. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.