Human Rights Officer (Sustainable Development Advisor)
Organizational Context
This Human Rights Officer position is located in the Regional Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Pretoria. The incumbent reports to the UN Human Rights Regional Representative and OHCHR’s Chief of the Sustainable Development Section in Geneva. The role focuses on regional responsibilities within the Sustainable Development Section.
Job Purpose
The Human Rights Officer will provide regional analysis and advice on policy, programming, and capacity development related to human rights-based economic and social policies and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This includes advising on the integration of human rights into national and UN development frameworks, providing technical assistance, and monitoring the implementation of international human rights instruments. The role involves collaboration with UN entities, governments, and international organizations to advance human rights in development practices, ensuring alignment with OHCHR's global work. The officer will also prepare reports and contribute to training programs.
Responsibilities
Assists OHCHR's regional work by providing analysis and advice on human rights-based economic and social policies and sustainable development. Advises on integrating human rights into national and UN development policies, including CCA and UNSDCF, and national development strategies. Offers policy advice and technical assistance to build national capacities. Reviews, monitors, and evaluates activities related to international human rights instruments and treaty body recommendations. Prepares human rights sections of reports for UN bodies. Collaborates with UN, states, NGOs, and international financial institutions to integrate human rights, including gender dimensions, into programs. Stays updated on economic policy, development, and human rights, making recommendations. Liaises with various stakeholders on coordination and policy matters. Assists in developing and implementing training programs with a gender perspective. Coordinates with the Geneva Sustainable Development Section to align regional and global work. Supervises junior staff.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or development economics is required. At least three years of experience integrating human rights into sustainable development policies and programs at regional or national levels is essential. Experience in research, analysis, and report writing on human rights and development financing is also required.
Skills
Professionalism, communication, and teamwork. Expertise in human rights, economic policy, and development issues. Ability to analyze and integrate information from diverse sources. Skills in training civil authorities and advocacy groups. Ability to relate human rights perspectives, including gender dimensions, to development programs. Effective verbal and written communication. Collaborative work approach.