Human Rights Officer,
Geneva
OHCHR - Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Closing date: Tuesday, 19 December 2017
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Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Chief of the Africa Branch, Field Operations and Technical Cooperation Division, the incumbent: Assists countries in promoting respect for human rights, and Governments in identifying and specifying their needs for advisory services and technical co-operation, including preparation and conduct of assessment missions; Participates in negotiations to conclude technical cooperation agreements, prepares the respective country projects and acts as the project manager; Liaises with UN Country Teams and supports the mainstreaming of human rights in the UN CCA/UNDAF for the countries under his/her responsibility; Provides information to the treaty bodies on the human rights situation of the countries under his/her responsibility; Systematically collects and analyses all information regarding the human rights situation in the countries of his/her responsibility and prepares reports, documents and other written materials thereon; Supports the work of Special Rapporteurs/Representatives/Experts/Working Groups, including the preparation and conduct of field missions and timely submission of reports and liaises in this regard closely with the Special Procedures Division and other Branches and the Office of the High Commissioner; Coordinates with the relevant units in processing individual cases of alleged violations under thematic mechanisms, including under the urgent action procedure; Responds to requests for information relating to the human rights situation in the country (ies) under his/her responsibility; Provides support and backstopping to field presences and contributes to their effective functioning; Raises awareness and promotes specialized knowledge about human rights; Distributes materials related to Human Rights Education to Governments, educational and national institutions and assists in the adaptation of the material to the country concerned; Maintains an awareness of the human rights educational and information activities in the countries concerned and plans, implements and evaluates training courses, seminars and workshops; Perform other tasks as requested by supervisors.
Competencies
PROFESSIONALISM. Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to particular sector, functional area or other specialized field. Ability to identify issues, analyze and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources on the Internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. 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. PLANNING AND ORGANISING. 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. 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. TECHNOLOGICAL AWARENESS : Keeps abreast of available technology ; understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the office ; actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks ; shows willingness to learn new technology.
Education
Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent degree) in law, political science, international relations or related field. A first level university degree in combination with two more years qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in the human rights field is required. Experience working in the cause and resolution of human rights conflicts in accordance with international standards, is required. Work experience in the African region including the political environment and legal statutes as they pertain to human rights is an asset.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, fluency in English and French are required.