Under the overall supervision of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) in West Africa, and with the substantive support of the Regional Office for West Africa of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (WARO), the incumbent will perform the following main functions:

- Act as the Senior Human Rights Advisor to the SRSG and report, on human rights and transitional justice issues;
- Participate in Senior Management Team meetings and advise on any measures necessary or desirable for other offices of the Mission to better protect and promote human rights in the mission area;
- In accordance with the mandate of UNOWA, ensure cooperation with and assistance to international partners, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), European Union, governments, the civil society, the academic and the private sector on activities, strategies and work programmes that better promote and protect human rights in coordination with WARO;
- Ensure, in cooperation with other UN partners, the implementation of activities leading to promoting awareness for the protection of children, youth and women in West Africa,
- Maintain close liaison and cooperate with other UN missions in the countries of the subregion with a view to develop common strategies to ensure good governance efforts and security sector reform observe international human rights standards;
- Maintain close liaison with UN counterparts in countries of the sub-region, with regard to developments that can affect the observance of international human rights in the region;
- Ensure the issuance of UNOWA’s public reports on human rights in consultation with WARO;
- Identify and contribute to the development and implementation of best practices, particularly those relating to promotion of a rights based approach to planning and programming, regional coordination mechanisms, and inter-agency cooperation in coordination with WARO;
- In accordance with the mandate of UNOWA, develop and monitor the implementation of the management plan for the Human Rights Unit and be responsible for the achievement of the objectives contained therein;
- Undertake the programmatic/administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the Human Rights Unit, including preparation of budgets, reporting on budget/programme performance, evaluation of staff performance, interviewing of candidates for job openings, and preparation of inputs for results-based budgeting exercises;
- Perform other duties as required by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General

QUALIFICATIONS

Education - Advanced University Degree (Masters or equivalent), preferably in law, political science, international relations or other disciplines related to human rights. A first level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience - At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in field and headquarters locations at national and international levels in the field of human rights, with at least 3 years supervisory, management and leadership experience; Proven experience in public speaking and representation at a high level.

Languages - Fluency in oral and written English and French are required.

Other Skills - Previous experience in UN peace missions is highly desirable

COMPETENCIES

Professionalism – Comprehensive knowledge of and exposure to a range of human rights
issues, including in the areas of rule of law and security institutions. Very good knowledge of
institutional mandates, policies and guidelines related to human rights including the rules
governing their protection and the mechanisms available in case of their violation, in particular with regards to sexual and gender-based violence and child protection. Very good knowledge of the region, including the political environment and legal statutes as they pertain to human rights. Ability to work and act under pressure in a politically and psychologically difficult environment, with a minimum of comfort and in dangerous security conditions. Sound political judgment, impartiality, diplomacy and discretion;

Leadership - Proven negotiating and managerial skills; strong ability to take initiatives and to demonstrate autonomy, excellent leadership skills and ability to motivate a multicultural diverse team;

Technological Awareness – Good computer skills and ability to use relevant software applications, in particular information databases, internet services, library sources etc.

Communication – Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Excellent analytical and
writing skills.

Teamwork – Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people of
different national and cultural backgrounds with respect for diversity.

Vacancies Contact

Reference Code: RW_7H9LP3-89