Legal Specialists

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization supports the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support to countries, facilitating partnerships and delivering technical assistance while adhering to international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The position of Legal Specialists within the FAO involves providing legal expertise in various areas of food and agriculture legislation. The role is crucial for supporting the implementation of development law projects, which may include assisting national and international consultants, contributing to participatory legal drafting processes, and conducting legal research and analysis. The specialists will also be involved in capacity development activities, which include designing and implementing training and outreach initiatives. The position requires a strong understanding of food and agriculture law, as well as the ability to draft national and regional legislation and legal opinions. The work may involve travel to different countries to liaise with national counterparts and stakeholders, making it essential for candidates to be adaptable and willing to engage in international collaboration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Specialists will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: supporting the implementation of development law projects by collaborating with national and international consultants; traveling to countries as required to liaise with national counterparts and stakeholders; contributing to participatory legal drafting processes; assisting in drafting national and regional legislation, legal opinions, and legal analyses; supporting the drafting, analysis, and negotiation of international instruments; conducting research on food and agriculture law; writing papers and studies; developing legal solutions to food and agriculture matters; contributing to the design and implementation of training and outreach activities and materials; organizing trainings, meetings, webinars, and conferences; and supporting communication and outreach activities related to the work of the Development Law Branch.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Law or a related discipline relevant to the work of the Organization. A Bachelor’s degree in Law and a PhD in Law are considered assets. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 1 year of demonstrated relevant practical experience, including research experience. A working knowledge (Level C) of English is required, and knowledge of other UN languages is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Law or a related field from a recognized institution. A Bachelor’s degree in Law is a minimum requirement, while a PhD in Law is viewed favorably. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of food and agriculture legislation and for effectively contributing to the legal work of the FAO.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 1 year of relevant practical experience, which includes legal research and possibly legal drafting. Experience in implementing national projects and familiarity with the work of international organizations, regional entities, and national governments will be advantageous. The role may also benefit from candidates who have experience in project management and strategic planning, as well as knowledge of budgets and financial reporting.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English (Level C) is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in international legal discussions and collaborations.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The duration of assignments can vary from a few days to 11 months, and may involve travel or be home-based. Candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements and core competencies of the FAO, which include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. The role is designed for individuals who are committed to promoting efficiency and achieving project objectives in the field of food and agriculture law.