Human Rights Consultants

MONUSCO, the UN Joint Human Rights Office (JHRO) and UNDP have created a team of researchers, based in Kinshasa, to gather, systematize and analyze information about alleged perpetrators of serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Team gathers and analyze existing information from different sources, such as public reports by international bodies, MONUSCO investigation reports, UNJHRO Database, etc., on individual perpetrators of human rights and international humanitarian law violations, as well as on the relevant command structures of security services and armed groups, with a particular emphasis on commanders and their responsibility. The work of the team contributes to a better understanding of the most serious violations of human rights law and international humanitarian law in DRC and supports informed policy and decision making on future vetting of security forces, joint planning for MONUSCO operations, as well as advocacy efforts for accountability for human rights violations. UNDP provides administrative and financial support for the project, which comes under the auspices of UNDP’s Governance and Security Programme. UNJHRO provides substantive inputs and strategic guidance to the research team, with MONUSCO providing logistical support.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of the Director of the UN Joint Human Rights Office in DRC, and under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator, the Human Rights Expert will be responsible for the following duties: Conduct thorough research activity and verify information on the alleged perpetrators of serious human rights and international humanitarian law violations, as well as on the command structures of the different security services and armed groups responsible for these crimes, especially by guiding the drafting and editing of individual profiles and event summaries. Supervise and rigorously review the information entered into the database, and ensure the quality and consistency of the profiles, in line with the project methodology. Enter relevant information into the database. Analyse the ongoing human rights situation in the DRC, and ensure the regular updating of information in the database. Take part in meetings with local authorities, civil society organisations, national and international NGOs, UN agencies and project donors to advocate for broader security sector reform, transitional justice and vetting. Identify key information gaps, and conduct research in order to provide information necessary for the completion of profiles. Contribute to the development of a work plan reflecting the expected results as determined by the Project. Assist in the orientation of others researchers with expert knowledge of DRC security services and armed groups. Any other duties as required. Objectives and Results Objective: To contribute to a better knowledge and understanding of the perpetrators (individuals and units) of the most serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the DRC, and to provide means for a better approach to future vetting of security forces, in order to foster the fight against impunity and prevent new abuses. Expected results: A work plan reflecting the expected results as determined is developed; New profiles of alleged perpetrators of serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law with all the relevant events are created and entered into the project database; Existing profiles of alleged perpetrators of human rights violations and violations of international humanitarian law are reviewed with key information gaps identified, when relevant; Verification activities regarding the abovementioned profiles are conducted, when relevant and as appropriate; Research activity of national human rights experts and/or of P2 researchers on alleged perpetrators and human rights events is supervised; Updates of information entered in the database are reviewed on a regular basis; Inputs to the project’s IT/DB expert are given on a regular basis; A final report which includes lessons learnt and other relevant issues on project is drafted;

Competencies

Professionalism: Sound knowledge and understanding of issues relating to human rights and international humanitarian law; professional approach, with a proven ability to achieve results within given time frames; capable of synthesizing evidence from multiple sources, critically evaluating their quality to build a profile; basic knowledge of information technology, including searching and populating databases; experience in investigation and human rights monitoring; knowledge of witness/victim protection mechanisms; ability to respect confidentiality and security policies. Planning & Organisation: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently; is able to plan and manage own work and to meet tight deadlines. Communication: Effective communication skills to advocate ideas, build consensus, effect/implement change, vis-à-vis both international and national counterparts. Proven drafting skills in both English and French. Work ethics and motivation: Able to maintain a high output for extended periods of time, even where there are no particular deadlines. Ability to apply, with rigour, the standards of thoroughness required for the post by properly absorbing and analyzing significant quantities of documentary information without taking shortcuts. Teamwork: Works collaboratively with national and international colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; able to work effectively even where required to implement strategic decisions that do not necessarily reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings. Ability to discuss problems frankly and openly with colleagues. Technological awareness: Demonstrated computer skills; experience in data management, data mining and data analysis using a variety of research and database tools.

Required Skills and Experience

Education: Advanced university degree in law, social sciences international relations or a related area (or equivalent experience) is required. Sound education/training background in the domain of human rights and/or international humanitarian law. Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, with experience using large-scale information systems for analysis, advocacy, or litigation. Experience in human rights monitoring and research. Prior experience with the United Nations or another international organisation is an advantage. Prior experience and knowledge of the DRC is a distinct advantage. Languages: Fluency in English and French (both oral and written) is required.

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Human Rights Consultants