In a time when the global landscape is challenged by rising extremism, evolving counter-terrorism strategies, and increasing threats to individual freedoms, the role of human rights defenders has never been more vital. The United Nations, a longstanding champion for peace and justice, is once again calling on exceptional individuals to step forward and join its mission.
For 2025, the UN is seeking qualified and passionate professionals to serve as Senior Human Rights Officers within its Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED), headquartered in New York City. This position offers not only a prestigious career opportunity, but also a profound chance to shape international human rights standards, influence policy on a global scale, and hold states accountable to universal principles of dignity and justice.
This article provides a detailed overview of the position, what it entails, the qualifications needed, and why this role is a powerful platform for change.
What Is the Role About for Lead Officers for Global Human Rights?
The Senior Human Rights Officer will serve within the CTED’s Technical Expertise and Research Branch, specifically under the Human Rights/1624/CVE Cluster. This branch plays a crucial role in supporting the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) by ensuring that human rights are not overlooked in global counter-terrorism initiatives.
The individual selected for this senior-level post will report directly to the Chief of Branch, providing high-level expertise and leadership on all matters relating to human rights and the global fight against terrorism.
Key Responsibilities
This isn’t a routine job. The work is both impactful and dynamic, involving substantial leadership, international collaboration, and policymaking influence. Some of the core duties of the Senior Human Rights Officer include:
1. Strategic Human Rights Planning
You will be responsible for conceptualizing long-term strategies that align human rights principles with counter-terrorism measures. Your approach will take into account gender perspectives and broader inclusivity, helping to shape the overall vision of the unit.
2. International Engagement
You’ll actively participate in CTC-led visits to United Nations Member States, evaluating their implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions. The goal is to assess how well they align with international human rights norms and offer actionable recommendations.
3. Advisory Role
As a subject matter expert, you’ll serve as a key advisor to the Executive Director on all human rights-related issues, including how state actions intersect with international human rights laws.
4. Policy Development
One of your main responsibilities will be to spearhead innovative policy reforms that address global or regional human rights challenges within counter-terrorism contexts. These will include gender-focused strategies and policies that respond to evolving threats.
5. Leadership and Team Oversight
You will manage and supervise a team of Human Rights Officers, providing guidance and direction on complex assignments and ensuring alignment with the broader goals of the CTED.
6. Research and Reporting
The role involves writing in-depth reports on human rights developments related to terrorism and counter-terrorism activities worldwide. You’ll also coordinate broader research efforts and ensure high-quality output from your team.
7. Governmental Relations
You will maintain strategic relations with officials from different nations, providing expert advice on the intersection of human rights and counter-terrorism policies. Your diplomatic skills will help build trust and transparency between stakeholders.
8. Other Duties
Additional tasks may be assigned depending on global developments and organizational needs, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.
Qualifications and Who Should Apply
This role is designed for highly experienced professionals with a proven commitment to human rights and international cooperation. If you’ve spent years working in advocacy, law, or policy — especially in sensitive or high-impact environments — this role might be your next career move.
Here are the qualifications required:
Education
An advanced degree in areas such as law, political science, international affairs, human rights, or a similar discipline is generally expected. However, applicants with a bachelor’s degree and extensive relevant experience may also be considered.
Experience
Applicants should possess a minimum of ten years of steadily advancing experience in fields like human rights, diplomacy, legal practice, or international policy. Experience working on issues related to counter-terrorism and human rights is a significant asset.
Languages
Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in French is desirable, and additional knowledge of any other official UN languages (such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) will strengthen your application.
Application Process
Candidates who meet the qualifications will undergo a comprehensive assessment process, which could include a written exercise and a competency-based interview. The evaluation is designed to test both your knowledge of human rights and your ability to lead, innovate, and collaborate in complex international environments.
Job Location and Environment
This role is located at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. As a vibrant international city, New York provides a unique platform for diplomatic engagement and global networking. It also offers access to policy institutions, think tanks, and advocacy organizations — making it a strategic location for anyone looking to influence global human rights discussions.
Deadline and Submission Details
- Type of Opportunity: Full-time professional role
- Country: United States of America
- City: New York
- Organization: United Nations (CTED)
- Application deadline is October 20, 2025; however, some positions may continue accepting applications until they are successfully filled.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so submitting sooner improves your chances of being considered.
Why This Role Matters More Than Ever
Terrorism continues to pose serious threats across all regions of the world. But in the name of security, basic freedoms are sometimes violated or ignored. This is where the work of a Senior Human Rights Officer becomes essential.
This role is not about choosing between security and liberty — it’s about ensuring both coexist. It’s about making sure that counter-terrorism laws, practices, and strategies respect the human dignity of all individuals, regardless of their background or belief system.
As a Senior Human Rights Officer, you will influence global standards, hold states accountable, and ensure that the rights of the vulnerable are protected even in the most challenging security environments.
Final Thoughts: Become a Guardian of Global Justice
If you have the experience, the passion, and the vision to stand up for human rights at the highest level of international governance, this position could be your calling. The United Nations offers more than a job — it provides a platform for lasting impact.
Serving as a Senior Human Rights Officer at the UN isn’t just about policy papers or meetings. It’s about real-world change. It’s about ensuring that governments uphold the rights of their people even in the face of threats. It’s about safeguarding the future by upholding justice today.
