HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER / INVESTIGATOR P3 - Two positions - (Temporary Job Opening)

Organizational Context

These positions are within the Group of independent experts on the situation of human rights in Belarus, established by the Human Rights Council. Based in Vienna, Austria, the incumbents report to the Investigation Team Leader and the Coordinator of the Secretariat, operating under the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Job Purpose

The Human Rights Officer (Investigator) is responsible for researching, collecting, and analyzing information related to human rights, international humanitarian, and criminal law violations in Belarus, as mandated by the Human Rights Council. This involves developing and applying investigative methods, conducting interviews with victims and witnesses, and monitoring trends and patterns of violations. The role requires utilizing monitoring and mapping tools, including open-source intelligence and satellite imagery, to corroborate evidence, assess authenticity, and identify alleged perpetrators. A key aspect is ensuring the protection of victims and witnesses, adhering to the 'do no harm' principle, and maintaining the secure storage of investigation data. The incumbent will also draft analytical documents, contribute to official reports, and integrate gender perspectives throughout the investigative process.

Responsibilities

The Human Rights Officer (Investigator) will research, collect, and analyze information on human rights, international humanitarian, and criminal law matters relevant to the mandate. This includes proposing investigative methods and tools, and conducting investigations through interviews to gather and corroborate allegations of violations. The role involves timely monitoring of violation trends and patterns, employing monitoring and mapping tools, and using multi-source intelligence, including open-source material and satellite imagery, for geolocation and authenticity assessment. The officer will identify alleged perpetrators, participate in and organize missions to relevant sites, and ensure the protection of victims and witnesses according to agreed methodologies and the 'do no harm' principle. Maintaining secure storage of investigation data is crucial. Preliminary analysis of gathered information, drafting analytical documents with a gender analysis, and contributing to official reports are key duties. Integrating gender perspectives and sensitive approaches throughout all stages of investigation, analysis, and reporting is required.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive work experience in human rights is required. Additionally, at least two years of experience conducting investigations into violations of international human rights law and/or international criminal law is mandatory. Experience working in or on the region is desirable.

Skills

Proficiency in international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law. Strong research, analytical, and investigative skills. Ability to identify and resolve human rights issues. Experience in data collection, analysis, and report drafting. Competence in teamwork, planning, and organization. Commitment to professional standards and incorporating gender perspectives.

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