Human Rights Officer

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Position Title: Human Rights Officer
Location: Colombo
Country: Sri Lanka
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission. UNDP emphasizes a 'leave no one behind' approach, encouraging applications from individuals belonging to marginalized or excluded populations. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation, harassment, and discrimination, and all selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is situated within the United Nations Resident Coordination Office (RCO) in Sri Lanka, reporting to the Senior Human Rights Adviser (SHRA). The role is pivotal in supporting the integration of a human rights-based approach (HRBA) into UN programs and activities, particularly the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The incumbent will work closely with program staff to strengthen national institutions and capacities, engage with human rights mechanisms, and provide technical advice and assistance to the government. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected nature of development risks and crises, necessitating collaboration across various units and functions within UNDP. The Human Rights Officer will play a crucial role in advancing the SDG agenda and ensuring alignment with organizational strategies and goals, particularly in the context of fiscal consolidation that disproportionately affects marginalized groups.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct substantive research and analysis on legislation and policy, including proposed reforms and their impact on human rights. Draft legal analysis and briefs for the RCO, UNCT, and multiple stakeholders to inform programming, strategic advocacy, and planning.
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with government counterparts, developing an engagement strategy to identify priorities and opportunities for legal policy and advocacy.
• Provide technical advice to integrate HRBA into government and national institutions, particularly in the context of fiscal consolidation and the promotion of economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCRs).
• Support joint resource mobilization efforts and facilitate coordination with other organizations and partners, providing technical guidance to thematic coordination groups under the UNSDCF.
• Liaise with stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and international actors, to promote and advance the realization of ESCRs and related SDGs. The incumbent will also perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related area. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area. Experience in collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including UN agencies, government partners, donors, businesses, and civil society, is desirable. Familiarity with promoting economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCRs) and providing legal analysis and technical assistance is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as law, political science, international relations, or social sciences. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with additional qualifying work experience may be considered. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience for candidates with a Master's degree, or seven years for those with a Bachelor's degree. This experience should be progressively responsible and encompass areas such as human rights, political affairs, international relations, or law. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in multidisciplinary and multicultural environments, such as development agencies or international organizations, and should demonstrate experience in promoting ESCRs and providing legal analysis and technical assistance.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in either Tamil or Sinhala. These language skills are essential for effective communication and engagement with diverse stakeholders in Sri Lanka.

Additional Notes:
The initial appointment is for a duration of 12 months, contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period. The position is full-time and may involve collaboration with international and national partners. UNDP emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, and candidates from marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, ensuring a safe and respectful work environment.