Associate Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the International Trade Law Division (ITLD) of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) at the United Nations. The ITLD serves as the substantive Secretariat to the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). The organization is dedicated to promoting the progressive harmonization and unification of international trade law. The United Nations, established in 1945, operates globally with a mission to maintain international peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, promote sustainable development, and uphold human rights. The organization employs thousands of staff across various countries, working in diverse fields to address global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Associate Legal Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the work of the International Trade Law Division. This position involves conducting legal research and analysis in the fields of international trade and investment law, preparing studies, briefs, reports, and correspondence. The officer will assist in reviewing legal documents and identifying key issues, as well as preparing drafts of background papers and legislative texts. The role also includes supporting senior colleagues in servicing meetings of UNCITRAL and its subsidiary bodies, organizing informal sessions, and administering legal technical assistance programs. The Associate Legal Officer will contribute to the development and maintenance of the UNCITRAL website and social media platforms, ensuring that legal content is presented clearly and effectively. Additionally, the officer will analyze data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making and reporting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Legal Officer include: conducting legal research and analysis; preparing studies and reports on international trade and investment law; assisting in the review of legal documents; preparing drafts of background papers and legislative texts; supporting senior colleagues in servicing meetings and conferences; organizing informal sessions; administering legal technical assistance programs; preparing international trade law seminars; lecturing on legal issues; managing legal content for the UNCITRAL website; analyzing data and providing insights; and performing other work-related duties as assigned. The position requires a proactive approach to legal research and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international law. A first-level university degree in law combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates with a first-level university degree and no experience may be considered if they have passed the Young Professionals Programme Examination (YPP) or the United Nations National Competitive Recruitment Examination (NCRE).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in international law. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in law along with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Candidates who have successfully completed the YPP or NCRE may also be considered with a first-level university degree and no experience.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible professional experience in commercial law, comparative law, international trade law, or a related field is required. This experience should include legal analysis, research, and writing. Candidates who have completed the YPP or NCRE may also be considered. Desirable experience includes work in international dispute settlement, particularly in investor-State dispute settlement and investment law, as well as experience in website management and data analytics.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary project position available for six months, subject to funding availability. The position may be filled as a temporary assignment for internal candidates. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The position is classified as a family duty station, and candidates must adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the United Nations does not require any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.