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, established to promote and protect universal respect for all human rights. Its mandate includes strengthening international human rights mechanisms, enhancing equality, combating impunity, integrating human rights into development, and protecting 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 civil and political rights, with a focus on vulnerable groups. The specialist will contribute to planning and implementing advocacy and dialogue activities with state institutions and civil society, aiming to strengthen protection mechanisms and align national legal frameworks with international standards. This position also supports the integration of a human rights-based approach within the UN system in Panama and contributes to follow-up on international human rights recommendations.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of OHCHR leadership, the UN Volunteer will monitor the human rights situation in Panama, providing technical assistance to promote international human rights standards. Key duties include documenting and producing analytical materials on civil and political rights violations, with attention to their impact on women, Afro-descendants, migrants, and human rights defenders. The role involves supporting technical assistance, advocacy, and dialogue with state institutions and civil society on rule of law, vulnerable groups' rights, and legal framework alignment. Collaboration on strengthening national and regional protection and participation mechanisms, such as protection networks and dialogue platforms, is essential. The specialist will also contribute to integrating human rights approaches into UN system activities in Panama, support follow-up to international human rights recommendations, and assist in visibility and strategic communication efforts.

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 and Flexibility, Building Trust, Client Orientation, Commitment and Motivation, Communication, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, and Working in Teams. Expertise in Legal Affairs and Development Programmes is also noted.

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