Human rights Researchers

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 and transitional justice mechanisms. 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: On the basis of existing database sources, analyze and verify information on current commanders and DRC security service units eligible for UN support, including by conducting research activity on alleged violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, as part of the implementation of the UN’s Human Right’s Due Diligence Policy Assist in the creation and maintenance of priority lists, in line with the current MONUSCO mandate and UN priorities, including the UN Security Council DRC Sanctions Committee’s Group of Experts Research and document command structures of the different security services, armed groups and criminal networks linked to human rights and IHL violations in the DRC, updating information as appropriate Identify key information gaps, and conduct research in order to provide information necessary for the completion of individual profiles Supervise and rigorously review the information entered into the database, and ensure the quality and consistency of the profiles, in coordination with other team researchers and in line with the project methodology Analyze the ongoing human rights situation, and ensure the regular updating of information in the database When requested, take part in meetings with relevant MONUSCO and government authorities, civil society organizations, national and international NGOs, UN agencies and project donors to advocate for broader security sector reform, transitional justice and vetting Contribute to the development of a work plan reflecting the expected results as determined by the project Any other duties as required Objective and Expected Results Objective: To contribute to a better knowledge and understanding of the perpetrators (individuals and units) of the most serious violations of human rights law and international humanitarian law in DRC and to provide means for a better approach to future vetting of security forces in order to fight against impunity and prevent new abuses. Expected Results : Following the Team’s work plan: New profiles of alleged perpetrators of serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law with all 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 adequate; Research activity of national human rights experts is supervised; Updates of information are entered in the database on a regular basis.

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 & Organization: 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 rigor, the standards of thoroughness required for the post by properly absorbing and analyzing significant quantities of documentary information without taking shortcuts. Teamwork: Sound interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people of different national and cultural backgrounds with sensitivity and respect for diversity; 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 social science, area studies, international relations, law or a related area is required. Experience: A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, with demonstrated experience in IHL. Experience of human rights monitoring and research, as well as advanced analysis and reporting skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate to a professional level in both English and French. Experience working on security services and armed groups in a post-conflict or conflict setting is required. Prior experience with the United Nations or another international organization is an advantage. Prior experience and knowledge of the DRC is a distinct advantage. Languages: For this post, fluency in English and French (both oral and written) is required. Language competency will be tested during recruitment.

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 Researchers