The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights is currently accepting applications for 16 independent mandate holder positions within the Human Rights Council . These prestigious roles represent a unique opportunity for human rights experts to contribute to global human rights protection and promotion.
Available Positions
Sixteen mandate holder positions are open across various thematic areas:
- Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development (four vacancies: members from African States, Asia-Pacific States, Eastern European States, Western European and other States)
- Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (two vacancies: members from Asia and the Arctic)
- Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons*
- Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia*
- Special Rapporteur on adequate housing as a component of the right to an adequate standard of living, and on the right to non-discrimination in this context*
- Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences*
- Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights
- Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights
- Special Rapporteur on the right to food
- Special Rapporteur on the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children*
- Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders*
- Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar*
Requirements and Qualifications
Candidates must demonstrate:
- Extensive recognized professional experience in human rights
- Expertise in the particular human rights issues related to the position
- Ability to dedicate 4-6 months per year to mandate-related work
- Independence and impartiality in fulfilling duties
- Strong communication skills in UN official languages
Application Process
All applicants must submit by the deadline, both:
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(1) a short online survey (https://survey.ohchr.org/337342)
and
(2) a mandate-specific Word application form. Application instructions and forms available at https://www.ohchr.org/en/hr-bodies/hrc/sp/hrc61
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: August 28, 2025 (12:00 PM Geneva time)
- Appointments will be made during the Human Rights Council’s 61st session (February-April 2026)
- Early applications are strongly encouraged
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