Advisor on National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI)

Advisor on National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI)

Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT)

www.apt.ch

The Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT), a Geneva-based non-governmental organisation, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Advisor for its work with National Human Rights Institutions.

This is a new position to complement our team of thematic advisors and to act as an internal and external focal point on NHRIs. The APT is the leading NGO on torture prevention and is at the origin of the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture (OPCAT). The APT has been actively engaged with NHRIs and their networks over the past 10 years, as part of our work on OPCAT implementation as well as part of a more global torture prevention strategy (see NHRI guide). NHRIs are key partners to achieve APT’s vision of a world free of torture.

This is a full time permanent position based in Geneva, which involves regular in-country travel.

Main responsibilities include:

1. Develop and implement APT policy and work with NHRIs on torture prevention, in the context of APT Strategic Plan
2. Manage the implementation of a multi-year capacity strengthening project for African NHRIs, in coordination with the Secretariat of the network (NANHRI), including online courses and in-region workshops;
3. In the context of OPCAT implementation and in coordination with OPCAT advisor, advise on NHRIs’ contribution to OPCAT implementation
4. Conduct analysis and produce briefing papers on the role of NHRIs in promoting the effective prohibition and prevention of torture and other ill-treatment
5. Develop and nurture contacts and cooperation with NHRIs and their networks, in particular the International Coordination Committee (ICC).

Minimum skills and qualifications:

• A minimum of five (5) years progressive work experience in the field of human rights, including project management, preferably with NHRIs;
• Very good verbal and written communication skills in French and English;
• Strong analytical and drafting skills;
• Training and public speaking experience;
• Strong organisational skills and ability to work effectively with external partners;
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work independently as well as part of a multi-cultural team;
• Ability to represent the APT, which may require travel to different regions;
• University degree in a relevant discipline;

Additional skills and qualifications (desired but not essential):

• Experience in on-line courses;
• Experience in visiting places of detention;
• Proficiency in Spanish and/or other UN languages;

What we offer
• Great working environment, with a multicultural team operating globally;
• Average international NGO salary, Geneva rates over 12 months.
• Standard Swiss pension scheme. Accident and travel insurance.
• Holidays total 25 days per year.

How to apply:

Applications should be sent by 2nd March 2014 by email to jobs@apt.ch

Applications should contain:
- a motivation letter
- CV
- short writing sample
- contact details of two recent professional references.