Associate Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the International Trade Law Division (ITLD) of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) at the United Nations. The ITLD serves as the substantive Secretariat to the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). The organization is dedicated to promoting the progressive harmonization and unification of international trade law. The UN was established in 1945 and operates in multiple countries around the world, with a mission to maintain international peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, promote sustainable development, and uphold human rights.

Job Overview:
The Associate Legal Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the work of the International Trade Law Division. This position involves conducting legal research and analysis in the field of international trade and investment law, preparing various legal documents, and assisting senior legal officers in their duties. The role requires a strong understanding of legal principles and the ability to draft legal papers and reports. The Associate Legal Officer will also contribute to the organization of meetings and seminars, and assist in the management of the UNCITRAL website and social media platforms. This position is essential for ensuring that the legal frameworks governing international trade are effectively communicated and understood by stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Legal Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: conducting legal research and analysis; preparing studies, briefs, reports, and correspondence; assisting in the review of legal documents; preparing drafts of background papers and legislative texts; servicing meetings of UNCITRAL and its subsidiary bodies; organizing informal sessions; administering legal technical assistance programs; preparing international trade law seminars; managing legal content for the UNCITRAL website; collecting and analyzing data; and performing other work-related duties as assigned. This role requires a proactive approach to legal issues and the ability to work collaboratively with senior colleagues and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international law. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in law combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Candidates who have passed the Young Professionals Programme Examination (YPP) or the United Nations National Competitive Recruitment Examination (NCRE) may also be considered with a first-level university degree and no experience. Strong legal research and analytical skills are essential, along with the ability to draft legal documents and communicate effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes an advanced university degree in international law. A first-level university degree in law may be accepted if accompanied by relevant work experience. Candidates who have successfully completed the Young Professionals Programme Examination or similar examinations may also qualify with a first-level degree and no additional experience.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible professional experience in commercial law, comparative law, international trade law, or a related field is required. This experience should include legal analysis, research, and writing. Candidates who have completed the Young Professionals Programme Examination or similar examinations may also be considered. Experience in international dispute settlement, particularly in investor-State dispute settlement and investment law, is desirable. Familiarity with website management and online meeting platforms is also beneficial.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required at UN Level III, which includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a project post, and the initial appointment will be for a period of one year, subject to funding availability. The position may be extended based on the extension of the mandate and availability of funds. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The position is classified as a family duty station, and candidates should be aware of the mobility requirements associated with UN positions.