Legal Counselor for Unaccompanied Migrant Children

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, ensuring that the rights and dignity of migrants are respected. IOM works to provide solutions to migration challenges, including the protection of vulnerable groups such as unaccompanied migrant children and women. The organization is committed to fostering international cooperation on migration issues and enhancing the understanding of migration's complexities.

Job Overview:
The position of Legal Counselor for Unaccompanied Migrant Children (UMC) is critical in supporting the protection and assistance of vulnerable migrant populations in Greece. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing legal counseling to UMC, ensuring they understand their rights and the legal processes that affect them. This role involves organizing information sessions, assisting with applications for international protection, and maintaining communication with relevant authorities to advocate for the well-being of UMC. The position is based in a facility located in Piraeus, Athens, and requires a proactive approach to addressing the legal needs of UMC while collaborating with various stakeholders, including facility coordinators and guardians. The candidate will also be expected to undertake official travel as necessary to support legal procedures for UMC.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide legal counseling on an individual and group level regarding the rights, obligations, and procedures concerning the legal status of UMC.
• Organize information sessions in cooperation with the facility coordinator and guardian, focusing on asylum procedures, family reunification, and relocation schemes.
• Support UMC during the application process for international protection, family reunification, and residence permits.
• Refer UMC to programs offering free legal support and representation in necessary legal proceedings.
• Maintain accurate records of actions taken for UMC and ensure compliance with deadlines for legal and administrative procedures.
• Collaborate closely with authorities to ensure the well-being of UMC.
• Undertake official travel as required to facilitate legal processes.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the National Cluster Coordinator or Program Assistant.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Law from an accredited institution. A professional license and/or certificate of registration with the relevant professional association is required. One year of relevant work experience is preferred, particularly in roles involving legal assistance to migrants or refugees. Familiarity with the legal frameworks surrounding migration and asylum in Greece is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills, personal commitment, and efficiency in their work.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Law from an accredited academic institution is mandatory for this position. Accredited institutions are those recognized in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. A professional license or registration with the relevant legal authority is also required to practice law in Greece.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have previous experience in a similar legal role, particularly within an IOM Emergency Accommodation Facility. Experience providing direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees is highly valued. Familiarity with working in a multicultural environment is considered an asset, as is the ability to navigate complex legal situations involving vulnerable populations.

Languages:
Fluency in Greek is mandatory, along with a certified working knowledge of English or French, both oral and written. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly IOM's official languages (English, French, and Spanish), will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Greece will be considered. The appointment is contingent upon funding confirmation and the candidate's medical fitness for the role. IOM adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts the organization's objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.