Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Human Rights Officer will be responsible for the following duties: • Monitor and analyze developments in the thematic areas assigned; alert the Special Adviser of the Prevention of Genocide to situations where there is a risk of genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing or crimes against humanity; • Prepare advisory notes and analytical reports; provide expert advice to the Special Adviser on courses of action to reduce or mitigate the risk; co-ordinate with counterparts from relevant UN departments, agencies, funds and programs; • Carry out research and analysis on matters relevant to the mandate, produce content for training, develop knowledge products and systems for capacity building, digital learning and develop education communication strategies as required; • Draft notes, background papers, talking points, speeches and other correspondence for the Special Adviser; • Organize, manage and lead fact-finding missions, as required; • Coordinate learning and knowledge management managing research, deliver high-quality outputs such as policy briefs, curricula and reports as required;

• Liaise with other sectors of the United Nations, and with Member States and international, regional and sub-regional organizations in order to advance the work of the Office and define areas for political and operational partnership; develop and maintain relations with officials; • Maintains relations with United Nations departments and agencies, as well as independent experts involved in humanitarian, peace and security and human rights activities to ensure the systematic collection of information regarding possible situations of massive violations of international human rights, humanitarian law and criminal law; • Coordinates capacity-building programme on prevention of genocide and mass atrocities, and conducts training sessions as required; • Participate in conferences, seminars and academic for a relevant to the work of the Office; • Carry out administrative functions relating to the staff planning and budget, as required; • Perform other related duties as required.

Competencies

Professionalism: Demonstrates knowledge of and exposure to a range of human rights, political affairs and legal issues; inter-disciplinary approach to addressing sensitive and complex situations; demonstrates ability to reach conclusions on possible causes, as well as strategies to prevent genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity.

Knowledge of the work and operations of the United Nations in the field of human rights. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately. Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience.

Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. 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.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law, political science, peace, conflict resolution, international relations or related area.

A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

• A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, international political affairs, peace and security or international relations is required. • Experience of undertaking research and analysis on areas related to the prevention of genocide and related crimes, war crimes and crimes against humanity, is required.

• Experience in supervising and managing staff is desirable. • Experience of working with an educational institution, a regional organization, and an understanding of intergovernmental processes in the United Nations, international or national organizations or in another multilateral environment is desirable. • Field experience is desirable

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage.