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 the rights of individuals are respected and upheld, providing support to various countries in implementing international human rights standards. The organization operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various human rights issues, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. The OHCHR aims to foster a culture of human rights through advocacy, education, and the promotion of accountability for human rights violations. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, are treated with respect and dignity.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is crucial for the OHCHR's mission in Mozambique, particularly in Pemba. The incumbent will support the Head of Office in developing and implementing the OHCHR Country Programme, which involves monitoring and analyzing human rights developments in the region. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of political, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and humanitarian contexts, as well as the ability to evaluate the implementation of international human rights instruments. The officer will prepare reports for various UN bodies, collaborate with UN and non-governmental organizations, and ensure that human rights considerations are integrated into programs. The position also involves training and supervising junior staff, making it essential for the officer to possess strong leadership and communication skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: supporting the Head of Office in the development and implementation of the OHCHR Country Programme; monitoring and analyzing political, security, and humanitarian developments; reviewing and evaluating activities related to international human rights instruments; preparing reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council; collaborating with UN and non-governmental organizations to integrate human rights into their programs; ensuring up-to-date information on human rights matters; coordinating with other UN entities and governments; assisting security and defense forces in developing human rights programs; serving as a team leader for Northern Mozambique; training and supervising new and junior staff; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in human rights, political affairs, or international relations, with a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in these fields. The role requires knowledge of human rights issues, institutional mandates, and the ability to evaluate and integrate information from various sources. Candidates should demonstrate skills in training and capacity building, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. A commitment to gender equality and the ability to address complex human rights problems are essential qualifications for 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 work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is critical for understanding the legal and political frameworks that govern human rights.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area. Experience working in a field presence is desirable, as is experience in human rights monitoring and reporting. Additionally, candidates should have experience in supervising staff and developing technical cooperation projects, which are vital for the effective implementation of the OHCHR's programs in Mozambique.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, fluency in Portuguese is required for this position, as it is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the local context.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is subject to the extension of the mandate and/or availability of funds. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for this position. The recruitment process will adhere to the principles of efficiency, competence, and integrity, with a focus on geographic diversity. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.