Intern - Human Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, the OHCHR operates in various countries, working to ensure that human rights are upheld and respected. The organization employs a diverse workforce and engages with numerous stakeholders to address human rights violations and promote social justice.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the OHCHR focuses on assisting the coordination of the Civic Space Unit. The intern will be expected to collaborate on the reception and processing of complaints received by the office, as well as support emergency response efforts. A significant aspect of the role involves the systematic organization of information regarding human rights violations, which is crucial for effective monitoring and reporting. The intern will also assist in planning missions or meetings related to the monitoring of the human rights situation, ensuring that the office remains proactive in its efforts. Additionally, the intern will be responsible for following up on media coverage related to human rights issues and assisting in the preparation of communications and various documents pertinent to the thematic areas identified by the office. Overall, the intern will play a vital role in supporting the objectives of the OHCHR and contributing to the promotion of human rights in Mexico.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the coordination of the Civic Space Unit, ensuring effective communication and collaboration within the team.
• Collaborate in the reception and processing of complaints received by the office, ensuring that all relevant information is accurately documented.
• Support emergency response efforts by providing timely assistance and information as required.
• Systematize information regarding human rights violations, contributing to the office's monitoring and reporting efforts.
• Assist in the planning and organization of missions or meetings related to the monitoring of the human rights situation in Mexico.
• Conduct follow-up on media coverage concerning human rights issues, analyzing trends and reporting findings to the team.
• Assist in the preparation of communications and various documents related to the thematic areas of the office, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
• Support other tasks as necessary to fulfill the objectives of the OHCHR, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to learn.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be enrolled in a master's program in a social science field (law, sociology, international relations, political science, or related disciplines) or be in their final year of undergraduate studies in a relevant social science field. Alternatively, candidates who have recently completed their undergraduate studies in a social science field are also eligible. A strong understanding of human rights, particularly regarding freedom of expression, human rights defenders, and journalists, is essential. Basic knowledge of serious human rights violations occurring in the country is required, along with experience or knowledge in handling cases/complaints related to human rights violations. The ability to work effectively in a team, conduct research and synthesis, and possess excellent writing and spelling skills are crucial. Proficiency in Excel or other database programs is also necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a background in social sciences, specifically in fields such as law, sociology, international relations, political science, or other related areas. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate familiarity with human rights issues and an understanding of the mechanisms for addressing violations. Experience in research, documentation, or advocacy related to human rights will be considered an asset, but the position is primarily aimed at students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, as it is the working language of OHCHR Mexico. Knowledge of English is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication and access to additional resources.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Mexico may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.