JOB POST: Programme Officer @Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, Delhi: Apply by Jan 15

The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative is looking for a Programme Officer for the International Advocacy and Programming (IAP) team. IAP team at Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative monitors Commonwealth states’ compliance with civil, political and human rights obligations, and advocates for their strengthening. IAP strategically engages with regional and global human rights mechanisms, including the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) and the UN Human Rights Council (HRC).IAP regularly advocates for reform within the Commonwealth and stronger response mechanisms to stem human rights violations. IAP reviews Commonwealth members’ human rights commitments at UN forums; monitors the performance of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in the Commonwealth while advocating for their strengthening. It presses for the protection of human rights defenders, journalists, freedom of speech and expression, assembly and civil society space.

As a trusted partner, CHRI has conducted fact finding missions in Nigeria, Zambia, Fiji, Sierra Leone, the Gambia, Fiji and the Maldives. This is a full-time position based at CHRI’s headquarters in New Delhi.

Job Description

• Monitor and research human rights issues in Commonwealth countries and draft reports for publication
• Prepare effective and targeted advocacy documents
• Draft submissions, oral and written statements, as applicable to various international mechanisms and forums and letters to governments.
• Write articles for CHRI’s newsletter, and newspapers across the Commonwealth
• Develop and strengthen diverse international networks, particularly with diplomats, government officials and civil society groups
• Assist with the CHRI’s periodic reports on the performance of Commonwealth countries at the UNHCR
• Organise consultations / events around CHRI’s areas of focus
• Assist with CHRI’s work with the Commonwealth, the United Nations Human Rights Council and other international bodies
• Represent CHRI at official meetings, as required
• Prepare work plan and report on progress
• Other tasks as necessary

Essential Qualifications

• Minimum of 2-3 years professional work experience.
• Master’s Degree in Law, International Relations, Political Science or a related field
• Very good research and analytical skills, and familiarity with web-based research.
• Exceptional ability to communicate in English, verbal and written
• Ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative
• Ability to network with a wide variety of actors

Desirable qualifications

• Experience of working at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva
• Experience of working in a South-based human rights organization
• Remuneration will be commensurate with knowledge and experience levels.

How to apply?

Please apply with:

• current CV;
• a cover letter;
• two writing samples (no longer than four pages); and
• contact details of two referees

Applications should be sent only by email to vinu@humanrightsinitiative.org latest by 15th January 2019. Please mention in the subject line: Programme Officer, International Advocacy and Programming. Please ensure you send all essential documents mentioned.

Note: Candidates would be required to commit to a minimum of two years to the position.

For more information please visit this page.