The World Organisation Against Torture is seeking to recruit a highly motivated, energetic, and creative individual, with a commitment to human rights and strong advocacy and coordination skills, to become the organisation’s Advocacy and Network Coordinator.

The post is a full-time position, based in Geneva. Starting 15 January 2023 ideally, for 12 months (maternity cover).

ABOUT THE OMCT

The OMCT works with around 200 member organisations which constitute its SOS-Torture Network, to end torture, fight impunity and protect human rights defenders worldwide. Together, we make up the largest global group actively standing up to torture in more than 90 countries. Helping local voices be heard, we support our vital partners in the field and provide direct assistance to victims. Our international secretariat is based in Geneva, with offices in Brussels and Tunis.

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES

The Advocacy and Network Coordinator will be responsible for Advocacy and Network support. They will work closely with all thematic and regional desks, as well as OMCT’s communications team and liaise with OMCT’s Network members worldwide. Key responsibilities of the position include:

Advocacy with UN Human Rights Mechanisms in Geneva

• Provide technical and strategic support to OMCT’s Network members and local partners on country and thematic advocacy with Geneva-based UN mechanisms, i.e. the Human Rights Council, Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and Special Procedures, including organising advocacy tours, side-events, and briefings with UN officials and country delegations;
• Represent OMCT at UN sessions, diplomatic briefings, meetings with civil society and government representatives;
• Prepare a range of documents including reports, advocacy briefings, statements and urgent appeals;
• Provide advise, support, and coordinate with OMCT staff on UN-related activities and strategic advocacy;
• Proactively liaise and collaborate with international CSOs on joint advocacy initiatives;
• Assist communications team in rolling out timely communications materials related to UN advocacy actions;
• Carry out advocacy missions, participate in workshops and trainings for human rights defenders on human rights documentation, and engagement with UN human rights mechanisms.

Network Coordination

• Answer day-to-day inquiries on the SOS-Torture Network;
• Carry out Network mapping activities and manage constituent information on OMCT CRM;
• Receive and process membership requests, and draft Network-related institutional documents including membership documentation;
• Support the OMCT staff with the implementation of Network-related initiatives;
• Assist the OMCT fundraising team with drafting of concept notes, projects and reporting to donors;
• Any other responsibilities as may be relevant.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

• Master’s degree in law, human rights, international relations, political science, or related field;
• 4 years of relevant work experience with national and international organisations and/or civil society organisations;
• Previous experience with conducting advocacy; especially advocacy experience with Member States and UN human rights mechanisms;
• Excellent oral and written English, good working knowledge of Spanish and French. Russian is considered an asset.

COMPETENCIES EXPECTED

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of international human rights law, and demonstrated knowledge of the UN system and its human rights mechanisms, in particular the Human Rights Council and Special Procedures;
• Excellent drafting and editing skills;
• Ability to work under pressure and to adapt to a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment;
• Oustanding interpersonal and communication skills;
• Good organisational skills managing multiple demands, prioritizing, and meeting deadlines in a high-paced environment.

APPLICATIONS

The candidate needs to have the legal right to work in Switzerland or in the European Union, as we do not have the possibility to obtain a work permit for this type of position.

The OMCT is an equal opportunities employer. The OMCT offers competitive salaries for Human Rights NGOs in Geneva with a minimum of 25 days holidays, social benefits, and the possibility for partial remote work.

Applications comprising a cover letter and a CV with at least two references should be addressed to OMCT International Secretariat with the subject “OMCT Advocacy & Network Coordinator”, by email to applications@omct.org. No phone calls please. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with the recruitment panel.

Deadline for applications: December 11, 2022.

For more information about the OMCT, please visit our website: www.omct.org.