Program Officer Job at Ministry of Commerce Islamabad
A position is available at the Ministry of Commerce, Government of Pakistan, in Islamabad. The Ministry is seeking to fill the post of Program Officer (Human Rights) on a contract basis. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background in a relevant field and professional experience related to human rights and sustainable development.
The advertisement for this position was published in the Daily Other Newspaper, with the last date to apply being within 15 days of the advertisement’s publication. For more details on how to apply and to view the full Terms of Reference (ToRs), please refer to the complete description on this page. A dual application process (online and hard copy) is required.
Positions with Qualifications
- Program Officer (Human Rights):
- No. of Positions: 01
- Qualification: Masters/Bachelor Degree (16 years education) in a relevant field, i.e., Public Policy, Law, Human Rights, Sociology, Conflict & Peace Studies.
- Experience: A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience is required. The candidate must have a good understanding of the problems of sustainable development relevant to human rights issues.
- Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills and excellent proficiency in MS Office are required.
- Age Limit: 30 years.
- Contract Period: Initially for one (01) year, extendable based on performance.
How to Apply for Ministry of Commerce Posts
- Candidates must fill in the application form directly through the Ministry of Commerce’s job portal: https://careers.commerce.gov.pk/recruitment2025.
- The online application must be submitted within 15 days from the date of the advertisement.
- In addition to the online submission, a hard copy package must be sent to the address below within the same deadline. The package should include a printout of the submitted online application form, an attested copy of your CNIC, and a detailed CV.
- Government servants must provide an NOC from their current employer at the time of application.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview. No TA/DA will be admissible.
Complete Address of Ministry of Commerce
Section Officer (EU-II), Room No. 611, 6th Floor, A-Block, Ministry of Commerce, Pak Secretariat, Islamabad.
Phone: +9251 9206875
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A Critical Role at the Nexus of International Trade and Human Rights
The Ministry of Commerce is offering a unique and strategically vital opportunity for a professional passionate about the intersection of international trade policy and human rights. The role of Program Officer (Human Rights) is not a conventional development position; it is a specialized post at the heart of Pakistan’s economic diplomacy. In today’s globalized world, market access is increasingly tied to a country’s adherence to international standards on labor rights, environmental protection, and good governance. This position is central to navigating this complex landscape and ensuring Pakistan’s exports remain competitive and compliant on the world stage.
The successful candidate will be deeply involved in policy matters related to schemes like the European Union’s GSP+ (Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus). This critical trade incentive provides Pakistani exporters with preferential access to the EU market, but it is contingent upon the effective implementation of 27 core international conventions on human and labor rights, environmental protection, and good governance. The Program Officer will be responsible for monitoring Pakistan’s progress, preparing reports, and providing sharp policy analysis to senior officials. This involves a deep dive into national laws and their practical application, ensuring they align with our international commitments.
Beyond GSP+, the role addresses the growing global trend of human rights due diligence in supply chains. You will be tasked with analyzing new and emerging legislation in key export markets and advising on how Pakistani businesses can adapt to maintain their ethical supply chains. This requires proactive stakeholder engagement—liaising with federal and provincial government departments, the private sector (especially export-oriented industries), civil society organizations, and international partners. Your work will directly contribute to building a national framework for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development.
This position demands a unique blend of skills: the analytical rigor of a policy expert, the legal acumen to interpret international conventions, and the communication skills to advocate for change. If you possess a background in law, public policy, or social sciences and are driven to work on high-stakes issues that have a direct impact on Pakistan’s economy and its global standing, this is an unparalleled career opportunity. You will be at the forefront of shaping a more sustainable and responsible trade future for Pakistan.