Human Rights Officer/Legal Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The Group of Independent Experts on the situation of human rights in Belarus operates under the Human Rights Council Resolution A/HRC//61/L.1

• This organization is dedicated to investigating and addressing human rights violations in Belarus, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the situation and to recommend measures for accountability and improvement. The organization is based in Vienna, Austria, and works closely with various stakeholders to uphold human rights standards.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer/Legal Adviser will play a crucial role in advising the Secretariat on legal frameworks and standards relevant to the human rights situation in Belarus. This position requires conducting thorough legal analysis and research, contributing to the drafting of investigation plans, and ensuring the legal accuracy of all documentation produced by the Group of Independent Experts. The incumbent will also be responsible for identifying trends in human rights violations and providing legal advice on accountability measures. The role demands a deep understanding of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and human rights issues, as well as the ability to integrate gender perspectives into legal analyses. The successful candidate will work under the direct supervision of the Coordinator of the Secretariat, collaborating with a team of experts to achieve the organization's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer/Legal Adviser will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: advising the Secretariat on legal matters related to human rights investigations; conducting legal analysis and research on pertinent issues; drafting legal opinions, memoranda, and briefing documents; ensuring the legal accuracy of reports and submissions; identifying patterns of human rights violations; conducting information gathering activities; integrating gender perspectives into legal analyses; and advising on accountability measures. The role may also involve performing additional duties as required by the Coordinator or the team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in human rights, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law. The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible work experience in these fields, with at least two years of experience providing legal analysis to human rights investigative bodies or tribunals. Familiarity with the region and its specific human rights challenges is desirable. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and strong planning and organizing skills, as well as the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international law or a related discipline is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively perform the duties of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible work experience in the fields of human rights, international humanitarian law, and international criminal law. Candidates should have at least two years of experience specifically in providing legal analysis to human rights investigative bodies or tribunals. Experience working in or on the region of Belarus is considered an asset, as it will enhance the candidate's understanding of the local context and challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with proficiency in both oral and written communication at UN Level III. Fluency in Russian is desirable, as it will facilitate communication and understanding of the local context. Knowledge of another UN official language is also considered an advantage, as it reflects the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 30 September 2026, with the possibility of extension subject to the continuation of the mandate and availability of funds. The role is classified as a temporary assignment, which may provide the successful applicant with valuable work experience but does not guarantee future employment in the same capacity. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages applications from female candidates and individuals from various backgrounds. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities will be provided upon request. The recruitment process adheres to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly and equitably.