Job vacancies at Ethiopian Human Rights Defenders Centre (EHRDC)

Background

The Ethiopian Human Rights Defenders Center (EHRDC) was established in December 2019 and registered in November 2020 with registration number 5220 at the FDRE Authority for Civil Society Organizations. EHRDC is dedicated to advocacy, capacity building, protection, and evidence-based engagement for human rights defenders (HRDs) in Ethiopia, with the aim of ensuring their safety, visibility, and well-being.

Position Summary

The Senior Advocacy and Communication Officer is responsible for enhancing EHRDC’s public image, designing and implementing advocacy and communication strategies, and managing internal and external communication platforms. The position contributes to advancing EHRDC’s mission by increasing public awareness of human rights issues, influencing policy and decision-makers, and fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, partners, and the media.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advocacy and communication strategies and campaigns
• Design, produce, and disseminate advocacy and communication materials, including newsletters, press statements, reports, booklets, brochures, banners and digital content.
• Manage and coordinate EHRDC’s media relations, including responding to media inquiries and representing the organization in media engagements.
• Develop, monitor, and manage content for EHRDC’s website and social media platforms to enhance visibility and outreach, prepare periodic reports.
• Organize and participate in advocacy meetings, workshops, public forums, and promotional events.
• Strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including human rights defenders, civil society organizations, donors, partners, and media outlets.
• Conduct research to support advocacy messaging and evidence-based campaigns.
• Provide advocacy and communication-related capacity-building support when required.
• Collaborate closely with the program director, and other staff members.

Terms of Payment

• As per the organization’s salary scale and policies.

Qualifications

Academic Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in communication, Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations, Law, Political Science or a related field.

Work Experience

• A minimum of four (4) years of relevant professional experience in advocacy, communication, or related fields, preferably within CSOs/NGOs.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and working languages.
• Proven ability to develop engaging advocacy and communication content.
• Graphic design and website management skills.
• Strong organizational, time management, and project coordination skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, networking, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Attention to detail, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Proficiency in digital tools, social media platforms, and computer applications.