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 the rights of individuals are respected and upheld, providing support to various human rights mechanisms and treaty bodies. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on various human rights issues and advocating for the implementation of international human rights standards. The OHCHR employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing human rights violations and promoting social justice.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is situated within the Americas Section of the Americas, Europe and Central Asia Branch of the Field Operations and Technical Cooperation Division of the OHCHR. The officer will be responsible for analyzing and synthesizing significant amounts of information relevant to human rights, drafting and coordinating reports and communications, and monitoring the implementation of international human rights instruments. The role requires collaboration with UN and non-governmental programs to integrate human rights into their initiatives, ensuring that gender dimensions are considered. The officer will also be tasked with preparing reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council, and will serve as a team leader, overseeing staff and administrative functions. This position demands a proactive approach to human rights issues, requiring the officer to stay informed about developments in the field and make recommendations for action.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: analyzing and synthesizing information related to human rights from various sources; drafting and coordinating reports and briefings in compliance with established standards; monitoring and evaluating activities related to international human rights instruments; supporting treaty bodies and special procedures; preparing human rights sections of reports for the General Assembly and Human Rights Council; collaborating with UN and non-governmental programs to integrate human rights into their work; ensuring up-to-date information on human rights matters; coordinating with other UN sectors and international organizations; leading a team and managing administrative functions; training and supervising junior staff; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human rights issues, including the ability to analyze complex situations and propose solutions. They should have knowledge of the institutional mandates of human rights organizations and prevailing policies. The ability to evaluate information from diverse sources and assess its impact on human rights situations is essential. Candidates should demonstrate skills in training and capacity building, particularly in recognizing signs of civil unrest. Professionalism, effective communication, planning and organizing skills, and sound judgment are critical competencies for this role.

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 work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. This experience must include at least two years of field experience in human rights monitoring and reporting. Familiarity with the United Nations Common System and human rights policies at regional and national levels is also required, while experience in administrative functions related to staff, planning, and budget is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency in Spanish is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 15 August 2025, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds. Candidates who are current staff members of the United Nations may apply for temporary positions at a level no more than one grade above their current position. The selection process for this temporary assignment will not affect the future incumbency of the post. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disability. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.