Human Rights Officer

Organizational Context

This Human Rights Officer position is within the United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH), specifically in the Human Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP) Unit in Port-au-Prince. The role operates under the direct supervision of the Head of the HRDDP Unit, contributing to the implementation of UNSOH’s mandate through assigned human rights activities.

Job Purpose

The Human Rights Officer is responsible for conducting substantive research and analysis of human rights issues and events in Haiti, assessing their impact on the overall human rights situation. This includes collecting and analyzing human rights data, ensuring gender-specific indicators are considered, and integrating human rights and gender equality dimensions into political, humanitarian, and economic efforts. The role involves defining work plans, supporting risk assessments and mitigation measures, supervising field verification, representing the UN human rights program in meetings, and contributing to capacity-building initiatives. The officer will also draft various reports and communications, potentially guiding junior staff, and performing other related duties to support the UNSOH mandate.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include conducting in-depth research and analysis of human rights issues and events, assessing their impact on the situation in Haiti, and collecting/analyzing relevant data, including gender-specific indicators. The role ensures human rights and gender equality considerations are integrated into political, humanitarian, and economic initiatives. Responsibilities also encompass defining work plans, supporting the drafting and implementation of HRDDP risk assessments and mitigation measures, and supervising field verification through periodic visits. The officer will represent the UN human rights program in working-level meetings, support capacity-building efforts, and draft various reports, communications, and statements. Guidance to junior staff and other related duties are also part of the role.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, political affairs, international relations, law, or a related area is required. Additionally, at least two years of experience in a UN common system field operation or similar international organization in a conflict setting is necessary. Experience in implementing the Human Rights Due Diligence Policy in peacekeeping operations and in human rights protection work, including engagement with military and police for civilian protection, is also required (minimum two years for each).

Skills

Professionalism, strong research and analytical skills, ability to identify and resolve human rights issues, data collection and analysis, report writing, understanding of institutional mandates and policies, effective communication (written and verbal), and teamwork are essential. Experience in incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation is also noted.

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