Job title: Human Rights Officer

Duty station: GANHRI Head Office, Geneva, Switzerland

Employment type: Full-time

Direct supervision: Director/Deputy-Director

Ideal start date: 2 March 2026

Application deadline: 11 February 2026

Background Information

The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) is the worldwide membership-based network of national human rights institutions (NHRIs).

GANHRI promotes and strengthens NHRIs to be in compliance with the Paris Principles and provides leadership for the promotion and protection of human rights.

GANHRI provides a framework for NHRIs to work together and cooperate at the international level. We coordinate a wide range of activities, including annual meetings, international conferences, networks, training and capacity building.

GANHRI works in close partnership with the United Nations Human Rights Office – specifically with the National Institutions and Regional Mechanisms Section (NIRMS) – and with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). We also work closely with the four Regional Networks of NHRIs in Africa (NANHRI), the Americas (RINDHCA), the Asia Pacific (APF) and Europe (ENNHRI).

GANHRI is registered in Switzerland as a not-for-profit association. Our Head Office is located in Geneva at the Palais des Nations.

To learn more about GANHRI visit our website: www.ganhri.org.

Duties and Responsibilities

Within delegated authority and under the supervision of the Director/Deputy-Director the Human Rights Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Conduct research, write and review a variety of documents, including statements, reports, communications and submissions;
• Prepare background briefing notes relevant to GANHRI and to NHRIs’ engagement with the UN;
• Support and advice to NHRIs in their engagement and advocacy with UN mechanisms (treaty bodies, special procedures, UPR, etc.) and keep close records of it;
• Review and analyze UN reports; compile input from members in view of submissions to UN human rights mechanisms;
• Prepare, attend and report on meetings and events at the UN;
• Participate in working level meetings;
• Organize and implementing trainings and workshops;
• Liaise, coordinate and support GANHRI Working Groups and task forces;
• Conduct human rights-related analysis and research on various human rights related matters;
• Develop content for the website, knowledge exchange and communications platforms in close collaboration with the Communications officer;
• Draft and coordinate translation, if needed, of various documents;
• Provide guidance to interns and volunteers, when required;
• Provide support in preparing and organizing GANHRI’s institutional meetings (General Assemblies, Conferences, Bureau meetings, side-events, etc.);
• Contribute to the general functioning of the office, including through accomplishing required admin tasks;
• Manage budget of various projects;
• Report to donors;
• Conduct fundraising;
• Perform other related duties as required.

Education

Master degree in law, international relations or related field. Knowledge of human rights and UN human rights mechanisms.

Work Experience

Minimum 5 years of work experience in human rights or international organisations or for non profit organisations.

Competences

Professionalism

• Knowledge of various human rights issues and international human rights mechanisms;
• Research and analytical skills, including human rights related;
• Ability to identify sources for data collection, research and analyze information and draft reports;
• Ability to evaluate and integrate information from a variety of sources and assess impact on the human rights situation in the area of assignment.

Teamwork

• Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals;
• Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise;
• Is willing to learn from others;
• Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position;
• Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Planning and organising

• 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 adjust plans and actions as necessary;
• Uses time efficiently.

Languages

English, French, Spanish and Arabic are the working languages of GANHRI. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English AND French are essential for the job. Proficiency in at least one of the other GANHRI working languages is an asset.

Swiss work permit is required.

How to apply?

Interested candidates should follow this two-step application process: 

1. Complete the online questionnaire: https://forms.office.com/e/3gVXCrMUUZ.
2. Submit your application to recruitment@ganhri.org, including a CV and a cover letter explaining your interest in and qualifications for the position. Please include "Human Rights Officer Application" in the subject line. 

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted in the week of 16 February 2026 to schedule interviews.