Human Rights Communications Associate (Palestine Focus)

Host entity: OHCHR

Volunteer type: International

Areas of expertise: Communication, advocacy, public information, Information technology and telecommunications, Human rights

Application deadline: 16/08/2026

Mission and objectives

The mission of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is to work for the protection of all human rights for all people; to help empower people to realize their rights; and to assist those responsible for upholding such rights in ensuring that they are implemented.

Assignment context

The OPT (Occupied Palestinian Territory) Office mandate includes monitoring and reporting, technical assistance and capacity-building for the Palestinian Authority and civil society. OHCHR oPt is specifically mandated by Human Rights Council resolutions S-9/1 and S-12/1 of 2009 to monitor and report regularly on the human rights situation in the OPT, including East Jerusalem. Pursuant to its mandate, OHCHR submits periodic reports to the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly and informs discussions within other United Nations bodies. In addition, OHCHR OPT is the coordinator of the Humanitarian Protection Cluster. The UN Volunteer will work closely with the Head of Communications assisting in general human rights related work and carrying out planning and organization tasks in communications and advocacy.

Task description

Under the direct supervision of Head of Communications, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

• Assists in substantive research, analysis and communication of human rights and international humanitarian law issues/events.

• Supports the drafting of a variety of reports, communications, briefings, statements, and inputs for briefing notes, and advocacy materials, for inclusion in relevant media (e.g. UN newsletters, periodicals, reports, publications, social media).

• Assists in compiling information/communication products for print, broadcast, social media for target audiences such as press releases, media packages and reports, brochures, briefings, audiovisual clips, newsletters, website and social media platforms.

• Assists in maintenance of OHCHR OPT public statements, press releases, reports correspondence and other communications; and maintains files/records.

• Provides assistance in the production and distribution of information materials, conducts photo and graphic research, provides inputs and suggests ideas on content, narration texts, audio excerpts, design elements and supports the distribution of public information materials.

• Assists in preparing response to external and internal inquires and information requests and drafts related correspondence.

• Support content migration and maintenance of the OPT office’s website;

• Perform other relevant duties as required.

During the first month of the assignment, the UN Volunteer will work closely with his/her direct supervisor to finalize an agreed-upon work plan. The work plan should outline key objectives and activities and include regular check ins with the supervisor to review progress and receive performance feedback.

Skills and experience

• Demonstrated interest or experience in human rights, human rights advocacy and communication, information management, journalism, research, drafting and evalua-tion.

• Desirable experience with structured data management tools (e.g. Excel/Google Sheets at intermediate level, or equivalent database tools);

• Familiarity with online media monitoring practices and tools;

• Excellent communication, interpersonal and networking skills;

• Respect for diversity and adaptability to other cultures, environments and living condi-tions;

• Fluency in spoken and written English is required, and knowledge of Arabic is an as-set;

• Previous experience as a volunteer and/or experience of another culture, (i.e. studies, volunteer work, internship) would be highly regarded.

Skills in:
• Computer skills (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, social media, and others);

Competencies and values

Accountability
Adaptability and Flexibility
Client Orientation
Communication
Creativity
Ethics and Values
Integrity
Knowledge Sharing
Planning and Organizing
Professionalism
Respect for Diversity
Technological Awareness
Working in Teams

Living conditions

Assignment Context

Due to the refusal of Israel to respond to visa requests for OHCHR international staff to enter the Occupied Palestinian Territory (oPt), OHCHR has temporarily relocated a number of staff to Amman, Jordan.

Location

Amman is the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. It is a modern and well-connected city offering a wide range of services, accommodation, healthcare, transportation, and international facilities. Jordan borders Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the Palestinian Territory.

Climate

Jordan has a semi-arid climate with long, hot, dry summers and short, cool winters. Summer temperatures in Amman generally range between 20°C and 35°C but may occasionally exceed 40°C. Winter temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C. Most rainfall occurs between November and March.

Safety and Security

Jordan remains one of the more stable countries in the region. While peaceful demonstrations may occasionally take place, particularly in relation to regional developments or domestic socioeconomic issues, they are generally well managed by the authorities. Road traffic accidents represent the main security risk due to road conditions and driving behavior. Personnel are advised to exercise caution while traveling by road.

Transportation

Transportation within Amman is readily available. Taxis are widely accessible, and modern public buses operate on fixed routes. Public minibuses are also available, although they may have longer waiting times.

Health Services

Jordan has high-quality healthcare services, particularly in Amman, where several modern public and private hospitals are available. Most doctors and pharmacists speak English, and many have received international training.

Language

Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken, particularly in Amman and other major cities, making communication easy for international personnel.

Conditions of Service

The UN Volunteer Conditions of Service outline the policies, entitlements, and benefits applicable to UN Volunteer assignments. Detailed information on duty station benefits is available through the UNV Conditions of Service and the UNV Entitlements Calculator.

Inclusivity

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal treatment. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, nationality, disability, age, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic. All UN Volunteers are expected to uphold the values of equality, human rights, dignity, and non-discrimination.

Full eligibility requirements, conditions of service and application instructions are available on the official UNV platform.