UN Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a key Secretariat Department within the United Nations, established to strengthen international human rights mechanisms. The OHCHR's mission encompasses enhancing equality, countering discrimination, combating impunity, and reinforcing accountability and the rule of law. It integrates human rights into development and economic spheres, widens democratic spaces, and provides early warning and protection of human rights in conflict situations. The OHCHR is recognized as the leading UN entity on human rights, representing the global commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Office has been operational in Venezuela since 2019 under the United Nations Resident Coordinator, currently functioning from Panama City while discussions for a return to Caracas are ongoing. The Office plays a vital role in assessing human rights situations and challenges in Venezuela, supporting the implementation of UN human rights recommendations, and collaborating with civil society organizations and relevant authorities to address human rights concerns.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position is integral to the OHCHR's mission in Venezuela, focusing on strengthening strategic thematic priorities and enhancing the Office's capacity to monitor and promote human rights. The volunteer will manage and improve data systems, contribute to reports, and produce visual materials to enhance communication. This role emphasizes the integration of human rights perspectives, including gender equality, children's rights, and disability rights, into all outputs. The volunteer will also engage in assessments, inter-agency coordination, and ensure compliance with data protection standards. The position requires a proactive approach to data management and communication, ensuring that human rights considerations are at the forefront of all activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Reporting Unit or designated representative. Key responsibilities include leading the design, development, management, and enhancement of data management systems, ensuring efficient data collection, cleaning, and verification processes. The volunteer will develop briefs, reports, and visual factsheets for external communication, creating compelling visual narratives to effectively convey key messages. Additional duties include supporting assessment and needs analysis activities, ensuring the integration of gender equality, children's rights, disability rights, and minority rights perspectives across all produced materials. The volunteer will draft and review reports in compliance with established standards, represent UN human rights at inter-agency coordination meetings, and ensure adherence to data protection policies. Training may be provided as required, and the volunteer will perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer position should possess strong analytical and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage data systems effectively. A commitment to human rights principles and a proactive approach to integrating these perspectives into all outputs are essential. The ideal candidate should be adaptable, flexible, and able to work collaboratively in a team environment. Strong organizational skills and professionalism are also required, along with the ability to plan and execute tasks efficiently.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in social sciences, human rights, international relations, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights or data management will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in data management, report writing, and communication within a human rights context. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the UN system, is highly desirable. Familiarity with human rights issues, particularly in the Latin American context, will be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully managing projects and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication in Panama City, where English is not widely spoken. Knowledge of English and other languages relevant to the region will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader audience and facilitate communication within the UN framework.

Additional Notes:
The OHCHR Venezuela Office is temporarily based in Panama City, classified as a 'A' Duty Station (Family). The living conditions in Panama City are generally favorable, with good infrastructure and services. However, the cost of living is relatively high, particularly for housing and health. The city offers a vibrant lifestyle with various recreational activities, although cultural options may be limited. The climate is hot and humid, with a rainy season lasting eight months. Candidates should be prepared for heavy traffic during peak hours, which is a common issue in fast-growing urban areas.