HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER

Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the Digital tech and Human Rights Section (DTHR) under the Rule of Law, Accountability and Civic Space branch (RACS), part of the Thematic Engagement and Special Procedures Division (TSP) of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), based in Geneva, Switzerland. Under the general guidance of the Chief of RACS, the incumbent reports to the Chief of DTHR.

Responsibilities

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

• Develops and implements policies and training programs on human rights and digital technology.
• Works with UN and non-governmental programmes to integrate human rights and digital technology, including their gender dimensions, in their programs.
• Represents the Office on matters of human rights and digital technology.
• Reviews, monitors and evaluates activities relating to digital technologies the implementation of international human rights instruments, including recommendations of treaty bodies and mechanisms of the Human Rights Council.
• Supports the work of treaty-established bodies and extra-conventional mechanisms and special procedures.
• Prepares relevant human rights parts of reports for the General Assembly, HRC, etc. notes on the status of ratification of human rights instruments and digital technology, etc.
• Ensures up-to-date information regarding substantive matters in the field of human rights and digital technology and makes recommendations on actions to take.
• Makes contact with other sectors of the UN, other international organizations and governments on coordination and policy matters and plans of action on human rights and technology; briefs representatives and provides, as appropriate, suggestions and recommendations.
• Trains and supervises new/junior staff.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM: In-depth knowledge of law and exposure to a range of legal and human rights issues related to the promotion and protection of human rights in the digital age. Knowledge of and exposure to a range of human rights issues including approaches and techniques to address sensitive and complex human rights problems in their political, ethnic, racial, gender and socio-economic dimensions. Knowledge of institutional mandates of human rights organizations, prevailing policies and procedures. Ability to evaluate and integrate information from a variety of sources and assess impact on the human rights situation in the region or country of assignment, including the political environment and legal statutes as they pertain to human rights. Ability to complete in-depth studies and reach conclusions on possible causes and solutions to human rights problems in specific societies and systems. Demonstrated skills in training civil authorities and members of advocacy groups to recognize warning signs of civil unrest and take preventive action to avert hostilities. Ability to relate human rights issues and perspectives, including their gender equality dimensions, to political, social, economic and humanitarian programmes in affected countries and areas. 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 in all areas of work.

TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others and seek to synthesize their diverse views into the section's work; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decisions, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect their own position; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect their own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

TECHNOLOGICAL AWARENESS: Keeps abreast of available technology; understands applicability and limitation 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) in law, political science, international relations, social sciences or related field is required. 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.

Job - Specific Qualification

Not available.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law or related area is required.

• A minimum of three years of experience in policy work related to the impact of digital technologies on human rights is required.
• A minimum of three years of experience in drafting strategies, programmes, policies, tools or guidelines related to digital technology is required.
• Experience in analysing emerging developments in AI policy, including implications for human rights, and applying such analysis to policy questions is required.
• Experience in advocacy with Member States and civil society on the impact of digital technology on human rights is required.

Out of the seven years, a minimum of four years in international organizations, such as the United Nations, is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required, and French is desirable. A link is provided for the required skills according to the UN Language Framework.

Required Languages:

English: Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking - all at UN Level III.

Desirable Languages:

French: Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking - all at UN Level II.

Assessment

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

Special Notice

Extension of the appointment is subject to extension of the mandate and/or availability of funds. Pursuant to section 7.11 by the young professionals programme who have not served for a minimum of two years in the position of their initial assignment are not eligible to apply to this position. At the United Nations, the paramount consideration in ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity, with due regard to gender and geographic diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications and organizational needs. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. It recruits and employs staff regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds or disabilities. Reasonable accommodation may be requested and provided. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance among its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

United Nations Considerations

According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount recommendation in the employment of staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Candidates will not be considered for employment if they have committed violations of international human rights law, or any form of sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment. Terminations and criteria are defined. Careful compliance with all services and obligations is required. Mobility is mandatory under ST/AI/2023/3 for those in specific categories. Overseas placements are subject to these conditions. Evaluation of a candidate is based on the information submitted in the online recruitment platform, and any changes after the deadline are not possible. A physical check and background inspection might be conducted. An initial on-boarding probationary period of one year may apply. The deadline is 11:59pm (New York time).

No Fee

The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, or training). The United Nations does not concern itself with information on applicants' bank accounts.