ASSISTANT HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER, 3 POSTS

Organizational Context

These three Assistant Human Rights Officer positions are situated within the Syria Office of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), based in Damascus. The OHCHR Syria Office is mandated to promote and protect human rights in the region. The incumbents will report directly to the Representative or a designated official, contributing to the office's overall mission and programme strategy.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of the Assistant Human Rights Officer role is to support the implementation of the OHCHR Syria programme unit activities and contribute to the overall mission and strategic objectives in Syria. This involves conducting essential research and analysis on human rights issues, ensuring a gender perspective, and actively participating in various programming activities such as meetings, workshops, and consultations. The role is crucial for drafting and translating key reports and correspondence, facilitating engagement with diverse programme partners including UN entities, civil society, and diplomatic representatives. Furthermore, the officer will help identify areas for intervention, monitor human rights situations, and assist in capacity-building initiatives through training programs for national stakeholders. The position contributes significantly to establishing baseline data on human rights, particularly for vulnerable groups, thereby strengthening OHCHR's impact in the region.

Responsibilities

Under delegated authority, the Assistant Human Rights Officer will primarily implement OHCHR Syria programme unit activities. This includes conducting thorough research and analysis on programming areas, incorporating a gender perspective, and actively participating in the preparation and execution of meetings, workshops, and consultations. The role involves drafting and translating essential reports, briefings, and correspondence, as well as undertaking missions as required. The officer will engage with various programme partners, such as UN actors, civil society representatives, and diplomatic missions, facilitating crucial contacts. Secondly, the officer will support OHCHR's mission and programme strategy in Syria by participating in the annual office workplan process and identifying areas for intervention. This also entails monitoring and observing trials, preparing result summaries, and maintaining awareness of current human rights issues and political developments in Syria. A key duty is assisting in human rights training programs for national law enforcement, civil society, and NGOs to foster national capacity building. Finally, the officer will assist in liaising with government, NGOs, civil society organizations, and UN agencies to establish baseline data on the human rights situation, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups, and perform other duties as assigned by the Representative.

Work Experience

For candidates with a first-level university degree, a minimum of two years of experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. No experience is necessary for those holding an advanced university degree. Experience working on human rights-related issues within the United Nations Common System or other national/international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Key skills include: Professionalism, encompassing knowledge of human rights issues, institutional mandates, research and analytical skills, IT proficiency (Microsoft Office, web-based applications), and a commitment to gender equality. Effective Communication, demonstrated through clear speaking, writing, active listening, and tailoring messages. Teamwork, involving collaboration, valuing colleagues' input, sharing credit, and supporting collective decisions.

Explore related opportunities