Monitoring/reporting of Human Rights Developments across the MENA Region

Details

Mission and objectives

The Regional Office works on thematic issues that require attention at the national and regional levels. Among others, the freedoms of opinion and expression, association and peaceful assembly require heightened attention, despite the fact that they are essential to democratic participation yet are gravely endangered. The Regional Office continues to advocate for the rights of vulnerable groups, minorities and non-citizens, whose legal status and rights are rarely discussed let alone protected. In addressing these issues, the Regional Office provides technical advice to Governments in the field of human rights with regard to, inter alia, the ratification of human rights treaties, and encourages States to establish national human rights institutions (NHRIs) and to reinforce existing institutions, especially with respect to their independence and ability to take action when violations occur. The Regional Office also designs training modules on human rights targeting civil society organizations, Governments and NHRIs on a variety of issues, including: developing laws that are in-line with international human rights standards, preparation for and follow up on the UPR process and its recommendations, follow up on the concluding observations and comments of treaty bodies and special procedures mandate holders. The Regional Office actively cooperates with the UN human rights mechanisms, including treaty bodies and special procedures mandate holders. The Regional Office prioritizes gender equality and women’s rights in its programs. All countries in the region are party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).In addition, the Regional Office compiles and analyses information on the human rights situation, contributes to global or thematic reports of the High Commissioner and organizes awareness raising sessions and advocacy meetings to promote the protection of human rights.

Context

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) plays a crucial role in monitoring and reporting on human rights situations globally, including within specific regions. OHCHR’s mandate encompasses promoting and protecting human rights as outlined in international human rights instruments. This includes gathering information, conducting investigations, and issuing reports on human rights violations and abuses.
The reports will feed into the overall human rights situation in the region, which is part of the OHCHR mandate.

Task description

We are looking for four Online Volunteers who will support us with the research and reporting on Human Rights Developments in the MENA region. In close collaboration with The Human Rights Officer the Online Volunteers are asked to:
– Conduct daily media monitoring using open sources
– Report findings through a Weekly Report
– Conduct legal research
This assignment allows Online Volunteers to connect with the OHCHR desk officers and provides an opportunity to develop and hone their skills in human rights experience and knowledge.