Human Rights Officer / Child Rights Adviser (TJO)

About the role

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights is seeking a Human Rights Officer / Child Rights Adviser (TJO) to join the Investigation Support Section of the Human Rights Inquiries Branch in Geneva. The incumbent will lead independent investigations of alleged violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, with a focus on child protection and gender‑based violence.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigations of alleged violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, including child‑sensitive and gender‑sensitive interviewing.
• Advise the inquiries branch and investigative bodies on child protection issues and gender dimensions of violations.
• Support investigative bodies, extra‑conventional mechanisms and special procedures, and prepare human‑rights sections of reports for the General Assembly, HRC, etc.
• Collaborate with UN and non‑governmental programmes to integrate human‑rights and gender perspectives into their activities.
• Provide up‑to‑date substantive information on human‑rights developments and recommend actions.
• Coordinate with other UN sectors, international organisations and governments on child‑related policy matters.
• Assist national military and police in designing and delivering training on human rights, international humanitarian law and the rule of law, with gender focus.
• Lead the section’s work coordination, staff planning and budgeting, and supervise junior staff.
• Collect, analyse and visualise data to identify trends and support evidence‑based decision‑making.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required profile

• Strong knowledge of international human rights law, international humanitarian law and child‑rights instruments.
• Experience conducting investigations and interviews with children, victims and witnesses.
• Understanding of gender‑based violence and gender‑sensitive approaches.
• Proven ability to work with UN bodies, NGOs and governmental partners.
• Leadership experience in coordinating teams, planning budgets and supervising staff.
• Excellent analytical and reporting skills.

Required skills

• Data analysis and visualization