UN Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key Secretariat Department of the United Nations, established to strengthen international human rights mechanisms. The OHCHR is dedicated to enhancing equality, combating discrimination, and promoting accountability and the rule of law. It plays a pivotal role in integrating human rights into development and economic spheres, widening democratic spaces, and providing early warning and protection of human rights in conflict situations. The OHCHR represents the global commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The organization prioritizes addressing pressing human rights violations and focuses on vulnerable populations, ensuring that civil, cultural, economic, political, and social rights are realized. Since 2019, the OHCHR has been operating in Venezuela under the United Nations Resident Coordinator, temporarily based in Panama City while discussions for a return to Caracas are ongoing. The Office is crucial in assessing human rights situations and supporting the implementation of UN recommendations, working closely with civil society organizations and relevant authorities to address human rights concerns.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position involves contributing to the strategic thematic priorities of the OHCHR, particularly focusing on integrating a gender perspective into human rights initiatives. The role requires collaboration with various UN agencies, funds, and programs, as well as engagement with civil society organizations dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights. The volunteer will gather information on the human rights situation, support civil society organizations in policy development and training programs, particularly concerning women's and LGBTIQ+ rights, and conduct research on national legal frameworks' compliance with international human rights standards. The position emphasizes promoting dialogue among local human rights networks and humanitarian actors, supporting the implementation of campaigns like UN Free & Equal, and documenting human rights violations using the OHCHR database. The volunteer will also provide technical assistance and follow up on activities within the Office's mandate, ensuring a gender perspective is integrated into all efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake various tasks under the supervision of the Unit Coordinator, including: gathering information and reporting on the human rights situation in the thematic area through contacts with UN actors, humanitarian actors, and civil society; supporting civil society organizations in developing and implementing policies and training programs focused on women's and LGBTIQ+ rights; conducting substantive research and analysis of national legal frameworks and public policies in relation to international human rights standards; promoting dialogue between local human rights networks and humanitarian actors; assisting in the implementation of the UN Free & Equal campaign and other related projects; utilizing the OHCHR database to document human rights violations; providing technical assistance and following up on activities with partners; and assisting in other relevant duties as requested by the Unit Coordinator.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer position should possess strong adaptability and flexibility, a commitment to human rights, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize tasks efficiently. Professionalism and the ability to work collaboratively in teams are essential. The role requires a proactive approach to engaging with various stakeholders and a dedication to promoting human rights and gender equality.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, ideally in fields such as human rights, international relations, law, social sciences, or a related discipline. Candidates should have a solid understanding of human rights principles and frameworks, as well as familiarity with gender issues and the rights of marginalized groups.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in human rights work, particularly in areas related to women's and LGBTIQ+ rights. Experience working with civil society organizations, UN agencies, or in humanitarian contexts is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a capacity for research and analysis, as well as experience in policy development and implementation.

Languages:
Proficiency in Spanish is mandatory, as it is the primary language spoken in Panama City and necessary for effective communication in daily life and work. Knowledge of English is considered an asset, but it is not widely spoken in local services and shops. Additional languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
The OHCHR Venezuela Office is currently based in Panama City, classified as a 'A' Duty Station (Family). The living conditions in Panama City are favorable, with good infrastructure and services. The cost of living is relatively high, particularly for housing and health services. The city offers a range of recreational activities, including access to beaches and sports. The climate is hot and humid, with a rainy season lasting eight months. The position is a full-time role, and the organization is open to recruiting internationally.