HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER (TJO)

This position is found in the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Thematic and Special Procedures Division (TSP), Rule of Law, Accountability and Civic Space Branch (RACS) and under the Digital Tech and Human Rights Section (DTHR) based in Geneva, Switzerland. The incumbent reports to the Chief of the DTHR Section.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Human Rights Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Undertakes research and analysis on issues relating to the promotion and protection of human rights in the digital age, including on the development of technological standards, monitors and analyses developments at the national, regional and international levels, and provides expertise and advice at headquarters and to field presences.
• Supports advocacy and public engagements by the High Commissioner and other members of the senior leadership team with regard to human rights in the digital age.
• Designs, develops, and implements programmes and activities related to the promotion and protection of human rights in the digital age.
• Plans and coordinates activities related to thematic and country mandates on human rights, including from a gender perspective.
• Collects and analyses human rights data and indicators in country/region of assignment, including gender-specific data and indicators.
• 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: In-depth legal knowledge of, and good practical experience in international human rights law. Comprehensive knowledge of and exposure to a range of legal and human rights issues, including in the promotion and protection of human rights online and the human rights implications of information and communications technology (ICTs) and digital policies. Strong knowledge of new technologies including but not limited to technological standard setting processes, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Big Data, Blockchain, and facial recognition and surveillance technology. 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.

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. 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.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, digital technology or related area is required. Experience in the promotion and protection of human rights in the digital sphere is desirable. Experience in working with technical standard setting organisations, and technological standard-setting processes and human rights is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.