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 human rights are respected and upheld in all countries, providing support to governments, civil society, and other stakeholders. The organization operates in various countries, focusing on issues such as civil and political rights, economic, social and cultural rights, and the rights of specific groups. The OHCHR aims to promote accountability and justice for human rights violations, and it engages in advocacy, capacity building, and monitoring activities to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is critical for the OHCHR's mission in Tegucigalpa, where the incumbent will be responsible for planning and coordinating activities related to thematic human rights areas, particularly with a focus on gender perspectives. The role involves conducting substantive research and analysis of human rights issues, assessing their impact, and contributing to the drafting of reports and documents. The officer will collect and analyze human rights data, ensuring that gender equality considerations are integrated into various efforts and programs. The position requires collaboration with national authorities and civil society to improve the human rights situation, particularly for defenders of human rights. The officer will also engage in capacity-building efforts and represent the OHCHR in various forums, making this role pivotal in promoting human rights in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: planning and coordinating thematic human rights activities; conducting research and analysis of human rights issues; collecting and analyzing human rights data; integrating human rights issues into political and economic efforts; providing technical assistance to national authorities; coordinating intervention strategies under EU projects; conducting field verification work; representing the OHCHR at various levels; contributing to capacity-building efforts; writing reports and communications; and providing guidance to junior staff. The role requires a proactive approach to addressing human rights challenges and ensuring that gender perspectives are considered in all activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights issues, including their political, ethnic, racial, and socio-economic dimensions. They should have knowledge of the institutional mandates of human rights organizations and prevailing policies. Research and analytical skills are essential, as is the ability to draft comprehensive human rights reports. The officer must demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills, ensuring that gender perspectives are incorporated into all areas of work.

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 experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. Additionally, at least three years of experience working on human rights issues in the field, particularly with the United Nations or similar organizations, is desirable. Experience in human rights monitoring, analysis, and reporting, as well as providing technical assistance on civic space and the protection of human rights defenders, is also preferred. Project management experience is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish (oral and written) is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2025, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds. The role is classified as a temporary appointment, and candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and it is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.