Human Rights Officer

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 human rights are respected and upheld in all countries, providing support to governments, civil society, and individuals. The organization operates in various countries, including Cambodia, where it focuses on addressing human rights issues and promoting justice and equality. The OHCHR aims to create a world where everyone can enjoy their rights and freedoms without discrimination. The office in Cambodia is dedicated to monitoring and reporting on human rights situations, providing technical assistance, and advocating for the implementation of international human rights standards.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is crucial for the OHCHR's mission in Cambodia, focusing on the investigation and analysis of human rights issues within the country. The incumbent will work closely with the Representative to prepare comprehensive reports and briefings that assess the human rights situation, particularly concerning the administration of justice and economic and social rights. This role requires a deep understanding of human rights principles and the ability to conduct thorough research and analysis. The Human Rights Officer will also be responsible for planning and coordinating activities related to thematic and country mandates on human rights, ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into all efforts. The position demands a proactive approach to collecting and analyzing human rights data, as well as engaging with local authorities to develop training programs in human rights and international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law. The officer will represent the UN human rights program in various meetings and direct capacity-building initiatives in the region, making this role vital for promoting human rights in Cambodia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Investigating selected human rights cases by interviewing victims and witnesses and observing trials in key cases.
• Assisting the Representative in preparing internal and external analytical reports on the human rights situation, including proposed actions.
• Planning and coordinating activities related to thematic and country mandates on human rights, with a focus on gender perspectives.
• Conducting substantive research and analysis of human rights issues/events and assessing their impact on the situation in Cambodia.
• Collecting and analyzing human rights data and indicators, including gender-specific data.
• Ensuring that human rights issues are integrated into political, humanitarian, and economic efforts.
• Defining work plans in accordance with established terms of reference.
• Assisting military and police in developing training programs on human rights and the rule of law.
• Supervising field verification work and following up on cases verified by regional offices. 1
• Representing the UN human rights program at working-level meetings and directing capacity-building efforts in the region. 1
• Providing guidance to new or junior staff as needed. 1
• Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights issues and the ability to identify related problems across various dimensions, including political, ethnic, racial, gender equality, and socio-economic factors. Knowledge of the institutional mandates of human rights organizations, along with prevailing policies and procedures, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate research and analytical skills, including the ability to identify sources for data collection and draft human rights reports. The ability to evaluate and integrate information from diverse sources and assess its impact on the human rights situation is crucial. Candidates should also show professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills, with a commitment to gender equality in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related area 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 essential for understanding the complex legal and social frameworks surrounding human rights.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. At least two years of experience within the United Nations common system or a similar international organization is desirable. Experience in monitoring human rights and conducting legal analysis is also desirable, as it equips candidates with the necessary skills to effectively address human rights issues in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages to fulfill their responsibilities and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is open to applicants from various Member States that are unrepresented or under-represented in the UN Secretariat, as of February 28, 202

• The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging female candidates to apply. The recruitment process emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Candidates will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in their applications. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request.