Human Rights Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Regional Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Beirut. OHCHR is a part of the United Nations system and is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. The organization works to ensure that human rights are integrated into the policies and practices of states and international organizations. Established in 1993, OHCHR operates in various countries around the world, focusing on the promotion of human rights standards and the implementation of international human rights laws. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals committed to advancing human rights and social justice, with a mission to uphold the dignity and worth of every individual.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer will play a crucial role in assisting the work of OHCHR at the regional level. This position involves providing analysis and advice on policy, programming, and capacity development related to human rights-based economic and social policies. The incumbent will be responsible for integrating human rights into state and UN development policies and practices, including the UN Common Country Analysis (CCA) and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks (UNSDCF). The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, governments, and civil society organizations, to ensure that human rights considerations are embedded in development strategies. The officer will also be tasked with monitoring and evaluating the implementation of international human rights instruments and preparing reports for key UN bodies such as the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council. This position demands a proactive approach to human rights advocacy and the ability to work effectively in a complex political environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: assisting in the implementation of OHCHR's regional strategies; providing policy advice and technical assistance to strengthen national capacities; reviewing and evaluating activities related to international human rights instruments; preparing reports for various UN bodies; coordinating with UN country teams and peace missions to develop training programs; serving as a team leader responsible for staff coordination and administrative functions; training and supervising junior staff; and performing other related duties as required. The officer will also be expected to maintain up-to-date knowledge of economic policy, development, and human rights issues, and to make recommendations for action based on this knowledge.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights and economic policy issues, including the ability to analyze complex human rights problems and propose solutions. The role requires knowledge of institutional mandates of human rights organizations and prevailing policies and procedures. Candidates should demonstrate skills in training and capacity building, particularly in relation to human rights advocacy. The ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and to communicate effectively is essential. The position also requires a commitment to gender equality and the ability to incorporate gender perspectives into all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, development economics, 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 and development issues.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or development economics is required. At least three years of this experience must involve integrating human rights into sustainable development policies and programs at the regional or national level. Candidates should also have experience in research, analysis, and drafting reports related to human rights and development financing, demonstrating a strong ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and Arabic is required for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage, as it enhances the ability to communicate with a broader range of stakeholders and contributes to the organization's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for 364 days, subject to the availability of funds. It is important to note that this temporary assignment does not guarantee future employment in the same role. The United Nations encourages applications from female candidates and is committed to achieving gender balance within its workforce. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.