Human Rights Specialist
Organizational Context
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is the UN's leading entity for human rights, mandated to promote and protect universal respect and observance of all human rights. It works to strengthen international human rights mechanisms, enhance equality, combat impunity, integrate human rights in development, and protect rights in conflict situations. OHCHR operates globally, engaging in dialogue with governments and coordinating human rights activities across the UN system.
Job Purpose
The Human Rights Specialist will support the OHCHR Regional Office for Central America and the Dominican Republic in monitoring the human rights situation in Panama and providing technical assistance. The role involves documenting and analyzing human rights violations, particularly their impact on vulnerable groups, and supporting initiatives to strengthen protection and participation mechanisms. The specialist will contribute to integrating a human rights-based approach into UN system activities in Panama, assist in follow-up to international human rights recommendations, and support strategic communication efforts. The objective is to provide timely, effective, and high-quality support to OHCHR's mandate and beneficiaries in the region.
Responsibilities
Under supervision, the UN Volunteer will monitor the human rights situation in Panama, providing technical assistance and promoting compliance with international standards. This includes documenting and producing analytical materials on civil and political rights violations, with a focus on differentiated impacts on women, Afro-descendants, migrants, and human rights defenders. The role involves supporting the planning and implementation of technical assistance, advocacy, and dialogue activities with state institutions and civil society on rule of law and vulnerable groups' rights. Collaboration on strengthening national and regional protection and participation mechanisms, such as protection networks and dialogue platforms, is key. The specialist will also support the integration of human rights approaches within the UN system in Panama, contribute to follow-up on international human rights recommendations, and assist in visibility actions and strategic communication. Participation in team meetings and inter-agency coordination is expected.
Work Experience
A minimum of three years of relevant experience in the human rights field at the national or international level is required. Excellent knowledge of international human rights instruments and their promotion/protection tools is essential. Experience working with UN agencies and regional actors, as well as experience in Latin America and the Caribbean, is desirable.
Skills
Key competencies include adaptability, flexibility, building trust, client orientation, commitment, motivation, communication, ethics, values, integrity, planning, organizing, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, and teamwork. Expertise in legal affairs, project management, programme development, and strategy is also relevant.