OHCHR Human Rights Officer

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. We are on the ground in 166 countries, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges. As they develop local capacity, they draw on the people of UNDP and our wide range of partners.

Job ID/Title :OHCHR Human Rights Officer
Brand :OHCHR
Application Deadline : 03-Apr-12
Languages Required :Arabic, English,
Duration of Initial Contract : One year with possibility of extension

Background:
Under the guidance and supervision of the Head of Office or his/her delegate, the incumbent will be responsible for assisting in the implementation of all activities related to OHCHR-oPt’s mandate.

Description of Responsibilities:
Summary of key Functions:
-Assisting in the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of training and other activities on international human rights standards and mechanisms for a broad range of beneficiaries, including officials of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and nongovernmental partner organisations.
-Liaising with the PA to assess needs in the strengthening of institutional capacity in the field of human rights, and translating these needs into the formulation of capacity building activities. Expanding the contact base of the OHCHR oPt office within the PA. 
-Assist in liaising with relevant Palestinian institutions, including the national human rights institution and nongovernmental partner organizations. Represent OHCHR in meetings with representatives from such institutions, as well as with other United Nations bodies, programmes and specialized agencies;
-Co-operating with the PA and nongovernmental partner organisations on promotional activities aimed at raising awareness amongst the Palestinian public regarding international human rights standards and mechanisms.
-Assisting in documenting and providing analyses of both specific cases as well as broad human rights trends in the oPt, based on international human rights and humanitarian law. Drafting reports and communications as required; contributing to periodic reports; providing ad hoc briefing notes on the situation of human rights in the oPt.
-Contributing to the co-ordination of the human rights and humanitarian work of the UN Country Team, and to mainstreaming of human rights within the work of the UN in the OPT.
-Assisting in providing adequate support to visits to the region by independent human rights experts and OHCHR missions; 
-Additional tasks as required
 
Impact of Results
The key results have an impact on the overall performance of OHCHR oPt and success in implementation of OHCHR strategies. Accurate analysis and presentation of information ensure proper projects and activities implementation.

 
Competencies :
Professionalism:
comprehensive knowledge of and exposure to a range of human rights issues, in oPt. Knowledge of human rights issues in the Middle East and North Africa region as a whole would be desirable. Experience in formulating and implementing capacity building and training programmes, in human rights or another related field such as international development. A good knowledge of relevant Palestinian institutions and organisations, including agencies of the Palestinian Authority. Experience working in a relevant position within the Palestinian Authority would be an asset.

Communications:
Excellent communication skills (spoken and written), including the ability to convey complex concepts and recommendations to senior levels, both orally and in writing, in clear, concise style;

Computer skills:
Good command of operational systems and office applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, Lotus Notes).
Team work: Ability to interact and to establish and maintain effective working relations both as a team member and team leader, with people of different national and cultural background;

Qualifications :
Education:
Advanced University degree preferably in law, political science, international relations or other disciplines related to human rights or development. A combination of relevant academic qualifications and extensive relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Legal training would be a strong asset

Experience:
Five years of progressively responsible related work experience (formulation and delivery of capacity building activities in a relevant field, such as human rights, rule of law, or development).

Language Requirements:
Excellent Arabic and English (written and spoken).

Others essential qualifications:
Commitment to human rights and the mission of OHCHR.  Experience and willingness to work in a team within a multicultural and gender diverse environment, and ability to work under pressure. Ability to communicate well. Commitment to UN core competencies, and to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.  Enthusiasm, initiative and creativity are also essential.


“UNDP/PAPP is an equal opportunity employer: applications from both internal and external men and women will be considered equally”
UNDP actively supports the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted by the United Nations General Assembly

Important message to all applicants!
-Please be aware that the UNDP/PAPP will review your application only if you have uploaded Personal History Form (P.11) to your application. Please download the form from the following link: http://jobs.undp.ps.
-You will get the opportunity to upload the P-11 at when you apply for the position.
-Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date will not be given consideration. Please note that only applications that are under consideration will be contacted.
-For more detailed information about UNDP/PAPP please visit our website at www.undp.ps.