Human Rights Officer – Business & Human Rights

About the role

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is seeking a Human Rights Officer to join the Business and Human Rights Section in Geneva. Reporting to the Chief of the Business and Human Rights Section, the incumbent will support the integration of business‑related human rights issues into UN programmes and contribute to the development of policy and advocacy initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct substantive research and analysis of business and human rights issues, including gender‑equality dimensions, and assess their impact on the human‑rights situation in assigned contexts.
• Integrate business and human rights considerations into political, humanitarian and economic programmes.
• Define work plans in line with terms of reference and represent OHCHR at events and working‑level meetings.
• Coordinate capacity‑building activities and produce reports, briefings, statements and other communications for the High Commissioner, UN bodies and policy‑making forums.
• Draft publications, respond to technical queries via the BHR Helpdesk, and support the organisation of seminars, symposia and public‑information campaigns.
• Engage with states, businesses and civil‑society stakeholders to promote business and human rights at national, regional and international levels.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff and perform other related duties as required.

Required profile

• Strong knowledge of human‑rights issues, including political, ethnic, racial, gender‑equality and socio‑economic dimensions.
• Experience working with states, businesses and other stakeholders on business and human‑rights projects, particularly the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
• Familiarity with the mandates of human‑rights organisations, UN policies and procedural frameworks.
• Excellent research, analytical and drafting skills.
• Ability to communicate complex issues clearly to diverse audiences.

Required skills

• Research and analytical methods
• Report writing and briefing preparation
• Stakeholder engagement
• Capacity‑building coordination