Human Rights Officer

Organizational Context

The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is the lead UN entity for human rights, mandated to promote and protect human rights globally. Established in Liberia in 2018, OHCHR Liberia works with government entities, civil society, and integrity institutions to strengthen the national human rights infrastructure. A key focus is engaging youth, who form a significant portion of Liberia's population, to foster their role as agents of change in preventing human rights violations and promoting civic participation, especially within a restrictive civic space.

Job Purpose

This role supports OHCHR Liberia's strategic approach to youth engagement, aiming to empower young people as agents of change in human rights protection and prevention of violations. The assignment focuses on addressing the restrictive civic space in Liberia, which hinders youth participation in governance and peacebuilding. The incumbent will work to ensure youth, particularly marginalized groups and young women, can claim their civic space and rights. Additionally, the role supports Liberia's ongoing Transitional Justice processes, including the establishment of key courts, by ensuring youth involvement and promoting accountability for past and current crimes, aligning with SDG 16.

Responsibilities

The Human Rights Officer will conduct research and analysis on human rights trends, particularly concerning youth rights and digital civic space, translating findings into accessible digital content for awareness and engagement. Responsibilities include monitoring and reporting on human rights issues, leveraging digital platforms to amplify findings and mobilize youth advocacy. The role involves integrating human rights perspectives into national initiatives by engaging youth networks and digital communities, and mainstreaming gender equality by addressing discrimination and online harms. The officer will follow up on human rights cases, support dissemination of information, and assist in designing and implementing human rights education programs, including on digital rights and transitional justice. Representing OHCHR in meetings with youth organizations and digital communities, drafting reports and advocacy materials in accessible digital formats, and supporting initiatives for youth leadership in digital rights and civic engagement are also key duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is required. Desirable experience includes work in civic space and democracy, equity and non-discrimination, and previous volunteer experience or experience in another culture. Skills in human rights research, digital content development, digital advocacy, youth engagement, gender equality, strategic communication, and partnership building are highly regarded.

Skills

Key competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Client Orientation, Commitment and Motivation, Continuous Learning, Communication, Creativity, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Knowledge Sharing, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, and Technological Awareness. Expertise is sought in Disarmament, Peacebuilding, Rule of Law, Human Rights, and Legal Affairs.

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