Archives and Records Management Officer – OHCHR
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
OHCHR is seeking an Archives and Records Management Officer to manage the organization's official records, ensure compliance, and digitize historical archives. This role aligns with HTI's Certificate in Archives Administration and Records Management. Responsibilities include records appraisal, preservation, and access management. A Bachelor's degree in archival science or related field, plus 5 years of experience, is required. Knowledge of electronic records management systems is mandatory.
### Strategic Analysis
The role of Archives and Records Management Officer at OHCHR is pivotal in safeguarding the institutional memory of one of the world's foremost human rights bodies. As the UN's lead agency for human rights, OHCHR generates vast amounts of documentation—from country reports to treaty body submissions—that serve as critical evidence for accountability, advocacy, and policy development. Effective records management ensures that this evidence is preserved, accessible, and authentic, underpinning the organization's credibility and operational effectiveness.
In an era of increasing digitalization, the digitization of historical archives is not just about preservation but about democratizing access to information. This aligns with global trends towards transparency and open data, enabling researchers, civil society, and affected communities to engage with historical records. Moreover, robust records management is essential for compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks, protecting the rights of individuals and the integrity of the organization.
Strategically, this role contributes to the humanitarian landscape by ensuring that lessons learned from past interventions are documented and accessible, facilitating evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement. It also supports transitional justice mechanisms, where records play a crucial role in documenting human rights violations. By managing these records, the officer directly supports the realization of human rights and the pursuit of justice, making this role a cornerstone of OHCHR's mission.