Senior Legal Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing more than 18,000 staff members. The organization's mission is to safeguard the rights of refugees, ensure their safety, and help them rebuild their lives. UNHCR works to provide assistance and protection to those forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence, and advocates for durable solutions to their plight, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third country. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and it collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Assistant plays a crucial role within the protection team at the UNHCR Country Office in Rome. Reporting to the (Associate) Legal Officer, the incumbent is responsible for assisting in the preparation of legal analyses that are essential for providing timely and effective protection responses to the needs of populations of concern. This position emphasizes the importance of involving persons of concern in decision-making processes that affect their rights and access to solutions for their problems. The Senior Legal Assistant will engage with communities and relevant authorities to foster cooperation and ensure that the legal needs of refugees and asylum seekers are met. The role requires a commitment to uphold UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity while performing duties in accordance with the organization's regulatory framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Assistant will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: monitoring emerging legal acts and judicial practices relevant to refugee protection; contributing to legal analysis and review processes; preparing legal advice and drafting position papers; drafting correspondence and other documents as requested by the supervisor; cooperating with partner NGOs and other stakeholders; participating in meetings with UNHCR and external counterparts; identifying and managing risks while seeking opportunities that impact objectives in the area of responsibility; ensuring that decision-making is risk-based; and performing other related duties as required. The incumbent will also support the identification of legal issues and contribute to the development of strategies to address them, ensuring that UNHCR's guidelines and advocacy positions are effectively communicated and implemented.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include a background in law, human rights, or related fields. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and drafting skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively within a team. Familiarity with international, EU, and Italian refugee and human rights law is highly desirable, particularly regarding exclusion from international protection and cessation and revocation procedures. The ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and contribute to a positive working environment is also essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires a High School Diploma as a minimum educational qualification, with a Bachelor’s degree or higher being preferred. Relevant certifications in law or human rights are advantageous. Candidates should have completed post-secondary training in a related field, which will enhance their ability to perform the duties associated with this role effectively.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in legal assistance or a related field, particularly in the context of refugee protection or human rights. Experience working with UNHCR or similar organizations is a significant asset. Candidates with prior involvement in Refugee Status Determination (RSD) processes or legal advocacy for refugees will be particularly well-suited for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Italian is mandatory, with a strong emphasis on excellent drafting skills in both languages. Knowledge of additional UN working languages or local dialects is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication with diverse populations of concern and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position with a target start date of March 16, 2026, and an expected end date of December 31, 202

• The role is classified at the GS5 level within the General Service category. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in Italy, and only applications completed in English will be considered. UNHCR is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital status, race, or other characteristics. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual exploitation and abuse, and successful candidates will undergo mandatory clearance checks prior to receiving an offer. The recruitment process does not involve any fees.