Position description
Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is found in the Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Section at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). They report to the Chief of the Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Section.
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Human Rights Officer will be responsible for the following duties:
- Plans and coordinates economic, social and cultural rights activities related to thematic and country mandates, 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.
- Assists OHCHR country and regional offices in developing and implementing training programs in the field of economic, social and cultural rights, , with attention to gender perspectives.
- Undertakes field mission as necessary ; follows up on different ESCR projects and activities.
- 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 economic, social and cultural 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.
- 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 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, international relations, social sciences or related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Work Experience
- A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law or closely related area is required. Experience in economic, social, and cultural rights, including but not limited to economic policy, the right to social security, the right to work, the right to health, housing, land and property, an adequate standard of living, the right to education, and similar fields, is desirable. Experience working at the country and international levels, either with the United Nations or other similar settings, is desirable.
Languages
- English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.
Application instructions
Please be sure to indicate you saw this position on tendersglobal.net