General Information
UPR Info is looking for a Project Officer to work in the Africa Regional Officer in Nairobi to implement the project supported by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany titled ‘Increased and targeted support on the Universal Periodic Review to Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kenya, Côte d'Ivoire, Uganda and Somalia’
Position: Project Officer
Tentative starting date: 1 June 2016 (tbc)
Duration: 6 months (possibility of extension)
Type of contract: Temporary contract
Basis: 100%
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Who we are
UPR Info is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation (NGO). It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with two regional offices in Bangkok, Thailand (Asia region) and in Nairobi, Kenya (Africa region). The organisation’s main goal is to ensure that all stakeholders can seize the opportunity of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) mechanism for the realisation of human rights on the ground. UPR Info’s objectives are: (1) to raise awareness by providing capacity-building tools to the different actors of the UPR process, such as United Nations (UN) Member States, NGOs, National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs), and civil society, and (2) to support inclusive and effective participation of relevant stakeholders between and throughout UPR cycles.
Created in February 2008, UPR Info is currently composed of four staff members in its Geneva office and two Regional Representatives for Asia and Africa. The organisation has held Special Consultative status with ECOSOC since 2012.
Since the inception of the UPR in April 2008, UPR Info has been the first and only organisation in the world focusing exclusively on the mechanism. The organisation’s extensive experience in this area is unique as it addresses all human rights issues and all countries without discrimination or politicisation. This domain of expertise is widely recognised by actors such United Nations agencies, UN Member States, NGOs, NHRIs, and academics. As an impartial, non-advocacy NGO, UPR Info has the rare opportunity to work together with civil society and governments, and occupies a niche by bringing these actors together and building trust among them.
UPR Info has five programmes: 1/ Supporting CSO participation in the UPR: We provide information, analyses, explanations, and learning tools to NGOs. 2/ Follow-up: With the support of our regional offices, we offer assistance to States and CSOs to implement the UPR recommendations. 3/ Pre-sessions: We organise meetings in Geneva between Permanent Missions and CSOs to provide a platform for civil society to brief States on the human rights situation in their countries. 4/ Enhancing States’ capacities: We provide information and tools to States to effectively engage in the process. 5/ Strengthening the UPR process: We monitor the mechanism to ensure that it is an effective mechanism to advance human rights.
UPR Info is a small NGO, with the advantages and constraints attached. Every staff member plays an important role and carries responsibilities. Dedication is key as it greatly impacts the work of the organisation. It is therefore necessary to embrace the vision and goals of the organisation and fully commit to its success.
Responsibilities and duties
- Manage and implement the Project titled ‘Increased and targeted support on the Universal Periodic Review to Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kenya, Côte d'Ivoire, Uganda and Somalia’ supported by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Nairobi;
- Manage the daily work and administration required for the project;
- Contribute to the implementation of UPR Info's strategy;
- Conduct high-level meetings with senior government officials;
- Undertake fundraising activities; and
- Any other tasks required.
What we offer
- International environment;
- Contact with a great variety of actors;
- First-hand experience in the work and functioning of a small NGO;
- Deep involvement in the United Nations human rights system;
- Challenging work in a growing NGO; and
- Possibility to expand your responsibilities and competencies depending on your commitment.
Qualifications and criteria
Education
- Masters’ degree in international law, human rights, international relations, development, social sciences or other relevant academic field.
Experience
- At least 5 years work experience in the field of human rights;
- Excellent knowledge of the UPR and the UN Human Rights Council;
- Previous experience in an NGO will be considered an asset;
- Previous experience with the UPR will be considered an asset; and
- Previous experience with communication tools will be considered an asset.
Languages
- Fluent in written and spoken English and French
Skills
- Meticulous and detail-oriented;
- Pro-active person, self-motivated, positive attitude, strategic thinking and multi-tasking ability;
- Curiosity and capacity to contribute to the development of the NGO; it is expected that the candidate will be able to go beyond the scope of her/his assignment;
- Ability to work flexibly, under tight timelines and on multiple agendas simultaneously;
- Ability to work independently and effectively with minimum supervision;
- Good communication and public presentation skills;
- Service-oriented;
- Excellent organisational and strong interpersonal skills;
- Good computer and internet skills, especially Excel.
Permit
- Due to time constraints, being in possession of a valid Kenyan Work Permit will be an asset.
HOW TO APPLY:
Application procedure
Please send your CV (2 page maximum) and cover letter (1 page maximum) by Friday, 20th May 2016to office-africa@upr-info.org. Only full applications will be considered.
Only Short-listed candidates will be contacted. STRICTLY no emails or phone calls.
UPR Info is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, religion, marital status or sexual orientation.
