Human Rights Specialist

Organizational Context

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is the UN's leading entity for promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established by the General Assembly, OHCHR engages with governments, addresses human rights challenges, and coordinates UN system-wide human rights activities. Its mandate includes ensuring the enjoyment of all human rights and fostering international cooperation for their protection and promotion.

Job Purpose

This role supports OHCHR's mandate in the Dominican Republic by monitoring the human rights situation and providing technical assistance to promote compliance with international standards. The specialist will contribute to documentation and analysis of rights violations, focusing on vulnerable groups. They will also support advocacy and dialogue activities with state institutions and civil society to strengthen rule of law and align national legal frameworks with international standards. The position aims to integrate a human rights-based approach into UN system work and support follow-up to international recommendations.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer will monitor the human rights situation in the Dominican Republic, providing technical assistance to promote international standards in coordination with the UN Country Team. Key duties include documenting and analyzing civil and political rights violations, with attention to vulnerable populations. The role involves supporting technical assistance, advocacy, and dialogue with state and civil society actors on rule of law and legal framework alignment. Collaboration on strengthening protection and participation mechanisms, and integrating human rights approaches into UN system initiatives are also crucial. The specialist will assist in preparing materials for follow-up on international human rights recommendations and contribute to visibility actions and strategic communication.

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 is essential. Experience working with UN agencies and regional actors, and specifically in Latin America and the Caribbean, is desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, building trust, client orientation, commitment, motivation, communication, ethics, integrity, planning, organization, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, and teamwork. Expertise in development programmes and legal affairs is also noted.

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