HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER
Job Opening
Job Opening ID: 224807
Job Network : Political, Peace and Humanitarian
Job Family : Human Rights Affairs
Category and Level : Professional and Higher Categories, P-3
Duty Station : GENEVA
Department/Office : Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Date Posted : Jan 12, 2024
Deadline : Feb 25, 2024

Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is located in the Equality, Non-Discrimination and Participation Unit (ENDPU) in the Special Procedures Branch (SPB), Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures and Right to Development Division (TESPRDD) of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Geneva. The incumbent will work under the general supervision of the Chief of Unit and the direct supervisor of the secretary of the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls.
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Human Rights Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Plans and coordinates activities related to thematic mandates on human rights, including from a gender perspective.
• Conducts substantive research and analysis of human rights issues/events and assesses their impact on the human rights situation in assigned region or country.
• Collects and analyses human rights data and indicators in country/region of assignment, including gender-specific data and indicators.
• Provides support to sub-commissions, commissions and other bodies; follows-up on implementation of decisions rendered by policy-making bodies.
• Ensures human rights issues, including their gender equality dimensions considerations, are integrated into political, humanitarian and economic efforts and programme.
• Defines work plan for area assigned in accordance with established terms of reference.
• Supervises field verification work through periodic visits; follows up on different cases and situations verified by the regional offices.
• Represents UN human rights programme at working level meetings.
• Directs capacity-building efforts on human rights in region/country of assignment.
• Writes a variety of reports, communications, briefings, statements, etc., including to policy-making bodies.
• May provide guidance to new/junior staff.
• Performs other related duties as required.
Competencies
PROFESSIONALISM:
Knowledge of human rights issues and ability to identify related problems in their political, ethnic, racial, gender equality and socio-economic dimensions. Knowledge of institutional mandates of human rights organizations, prevailing policies and procedures. Research and analytical skills, including ability to identify and participate in the resolution of human rights issues. Ability to identify sources for data collection, research and analyze information and draft human rights reports. Ability to evaluate and integrate information from a variety of sources and assess impact on the human rights situation in the area of assignment. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

TEAMWORK:
-Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals
-Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others
-Places team agenda before personal agenda
-Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position
-Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings

PLANNING & ORGANIZING:
-Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies
-Identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required
-Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work
-Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning
-Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary
-Uses time efficiently
Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Job – Specific Qualification
Not available.
Work Experience
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law or related area is required.

Out of the five years, a minimum of one year of work experience with the United Nations common system human rights mechanisms is desirable.

Experience in the field of women’s rights and gender equality is desirable.

Experience in drafting official reports on human rights issues is desirable.

Experience in organizing country visits is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required; fluency in French or Spanish (both oral and written) is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.