Human Rights Consultant

POSITION: CCHR is seeking to recruit a highly motivated Human Rights Consultant to provide support to several of its key projects. The Consultant will work full-time from CCHR’s office in Phnom Penh. Working outside the office, including travel within and outside Cambodia, may be required from time to time.

SALARY AND TERM: The salary range for this position is from US $1,200 to US $1,500 per month, depending on experience and qualifications. The contract will be subject to annual renewal in late December, depending on satisfactory performance.

BACKGROUND: The Cambodian Center for Human Rights (“CCHR”) is a non-aligned, independent, non-governmental organization (“NGO”) that works to promote and protect democracy and respect for human rights – primarily civil and political rights – throughout the Kingdom of Cambodia. CCHR’s vision is of a non-violent Cambodia in which people can enjoy their fundamental human rights, are empowered to participate in democracy, and share equally the benefits of Cambodia’s economic development. CCHR works on a variety of projects related to, inter alia, fair trial rights, the protection of fundamental freedoms, business and human rights, and LGBTIQ+ rights.

Main Responsibilities

• Provide advice and technical support to project coordinators in implementing project activities;
• Carry out extensive human rights and legal research;
• Draft, edit, and finalize English-language advocacy outputs, including press releases, letters, media alerts, official correspondence, and other documents as needed;
• Produce legal documents including human rights reports, amicus curiae briefs and legal analyses;
• Draft submissions and briefings for UN mechanisms, international organizations, and diplomatic representatives;
• Contribute advice and strategy in relation to advocacy and campaigning;
• Write funding proposals and contribute to reports for donors;
• Work closely with the Management Committee to review and update CCHR’s policies;
• Attend relevant external meetings and events;
• Conduct and prepare internal training sessions on human rights issues; and
• Recruit, manage and supervise international interns and professional volunteers.

Requirements

Essential:

• A Master’s degree in a field related to international relations, political science, human rights, development, or law OR an equivalent professional/legal qualification OR compensatory experience;
• At least 2 years’ experience working in human rights research, fundraising, advocacy or campaigning, public interest law, international law, or development;
• Strong knowledge of international human rights laws and mechanisms;
• Excellent English-language writing and research skills;
• A solid understanding of the human rights situation in Cambodia; and
• Experience in designing and implementing campaigning and advocacy activities.

Desirable:

• Previous experience working with a non-profit organization;
• Experience working in Cambodia or in the region;
• Experience working in countries with a restricted civic space;
• Experience working in a multi-cultural environment; and
• Khmer-language skills.

Personal specifications:

• Be highly self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision;
• Excellent organizational and time management skills and ability to work within tight deadlines;
• Strong public speaking abilities, sound political judgment and a diplomatic demeanor;
• Positive attitude, flexibility and a passion for promoting and protecting human rights, equality and social justice;
• Strong work ethic, a positive attitude and an ability to handle stressful situations with composure;
• Ability to propose creative ideas and solutions for research and advocacy; and
• A strong interest in Cambodia and an understanding of its history and culture.

CCHR is committed to achieving workplace diversity. Women, LGBTIQ+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and individuals from minority groups are encouraged to apply.

All applications will be treated confidentially.