The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a Researcher to monitor the human rights situation in Lebanon. The Researcher will be responsible for developing and implementing a research and advocacy strategy on Lebanon. This is a fixed-term full-time position for two years. This position will be based in Beirut and report to the Middle East and North Africa Division Deputy Director based in Beirut (the Beirut Director).
- Research, monitor and document human rights abuses in Lebanon by collecting and analyzing information from a wide variety of sources including governments, local media, NGOs, victims, witnesses, journalists, diplomats, security forces and others in the field;
- Write and publicize reports, briefing papers, letters, news releases, op-eds, and submissions to international bodies on human rights concerns in Lebanon based on the findings; collect supporting documents and materials such as photographs and videos;
- Work with the Beirut Director in the development and implementation of local, regional, and international strategies to change abusive laws, policies, and practices in Lebanon;
- Respond promptly to queries from the media, public, and colleagues in the human rights community and take initiative to project concerns in public debate;
- Place abuses within the broader political, social and economic contexts and present human rights concerns to government officials, opinion leaders, inter-governmental agencies, and the media;
- Assist the Beirut Director and HRW’s Development and Global Initiative Department in conducting fundraising;
- Work closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local human rights organizations to ensure that HRW’s work complements and enhances their own work;
- Liaise effectively with HRW staff located in multiple locations throughout the world to ensure effective coordination and delivery of activities;
- Work with the Beirut Director to develop and implement advocacy strategies related to research and reports on human rights concerns in Lebanon;
- Be prepared and willing to work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events;
- Travel domestically and overseas, as required, to carry out research and advocacy;
- Deliver outputs in a timely manner and be consistent with the agreed strategy and priorities of the Program; and
- Carry out any other duties as required.
- A minimum of three years of directly-related experience working on human rights or related issues in Lebanon is required.
Related Skills and Knowledge:
- Ability to identify, research, analyze and effectively communicate important human rights developments in a timely and sophisticated fashion is required.
- Ability and sensitivity to conduct interviews with a wide range of people, including victims and witnesses are required.
- Ability to efficiently distil information about Lebanon so as to focus time and effort on issues of greatest importance or issues that are most capable of being influenced is required.
- Ability to produce excellent written material under tight deadlines is required.
- Ability to identify and advise the MENA division in developing and implementing advocacy strategies to seize advocacy opportunities is required.
- Ability to respond quickly to crises and conflicts as they may occur is required.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Arabic are required.
- Strong interpersonal skills, to work collaboratively within HRW as well as with local partners, government officials, and others are required.
- Strong initiative and follow-through, the capacity to think creatively and strategically, and dynamic public speaking ability are required.
- Ability to multi-task effectively, including having good planning and organizing skills and ability to work under pressure are required.
- Ability to make sound decisions consistent with functions is required.
- Demonstrated ability to think strategically about the global and local media environments and how to use the media and electronic media to further advocacy goals is desirable.
- Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human rights law are preferred.
HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits. HRW offers a relocation assistance package and will assist employees in obtaining necessary work authorization, if required; citizens of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.
Initial fixed-term employment for a two-year period. Renewable dependent upon availability of continued funding.