Consultant for Legal Support

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization focuses on various aspects of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, governance, and policy issues, particularly those related to multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs). UNEP's Law Division is specifically tasked with carrying out these functions, leading the international community in the progressive development of environmental law, and supporting states in implementing legal and policy measures to address significant environmental challenges. UNEP operates globally, engaging with numerous countries and stakeholders to foster cooperation and coordination among MEAs and facilitate policy dialogue on international environmental law and governance.

Job Overview:
The Consultant will provide effective legal support to contribute to the implementation of the outcomes of the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7). This role involves supporting subsidiary and intersessional bodies of UNEA, including the Committee of Permanent Representatives, and providing legal assistance to the secretariat of the Intergovernmental Science Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution (ISP-CWP). The consultant will work under the supervision of the Head of the International Rules and Procedures Unit and the Chief of the Environmental Rule of Law Branch, ensuring that UNEP's legal frameworks and procedures are adhered to and effectively implemented. The consultant will also engage in research and provide legal advice on public international law and international environmental law, contributing to the overall mission of UNEP in promoting sustainable environmental governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: (i) Providing legal advice on the mandate and international status of UNEP, its Governing Bodies, and applicable UN resolutions. (ii) Offering legal support to the secretariat of the ISP-CWP. (iii) Assisting UNEP Divisions and Offices in implementing the outcomes of UNEA-

• (iv) Supporting subsidiary processes of UNEA-7, including the Committee of Permanent Representatives. (v) Conducting research and providing advice on public international law, international environmental law, and related questions, including provisions of the UN Charter and other international treaties. The consultant will also be expected to engage in consultations and manage legal processes effectively, ensuring that UNEP's objectives are met in a timely and efficient manner.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in international law, international environmental law, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of five years of progressive working experience in international law, environmental law, environmental policy, or a related field is required. Experience at the international level, particularly with United Nations system organizations or international science-policy making bodies, is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent research and drafting skills, as well as strong organizational and consultation management abilities.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in international law, international environmental law, or a related field. In cases where candidates hold a first-level degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent), they must have two additional years of relevant work experience to qualify for the role. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international environmental law and governance, which are critical to the consultant's responsibilities.

Experience:
The consultant must have a minimum of five years of progressive working experience in international law, environmental law, environmental policy, or a related field. This experience should ideally include work at the international level, particularly with organizations within the United Nations system or with international science-policy making bodies. Candidates with experience in managing legal processes within international organizations will be preferred, as this will be crucial for providing effective legal support to UNEP and its various initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication, legal drafting, and consultation management within the international context of UNEP's work. While English is the mandatory language, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and facilitating broader engagement in international environmental discussions.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for a duration of four months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This policy ensures that the recruitment process remains transparent and accessible to all qualified candidates, without any financial barriers.