Legal Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Office of the Assistant Secretary-General of the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) established to assist in the investigation and prosecution of individuals responsible for serious crimes under law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law committed in Syria since March 201

• The IIIM aims to ensure accountability for these crimes and operates under the auspices of the United Nations. The organization is committed to upholding international law and human rights, and it engages with various stakeholders, including states, NGOs, and international organizations, to fulfill its mandate.

Job Overview:
The Legal Advisor will provide authoritative legal advice to the Head of the Mechanism on various aspects of accountability for core international crimes. This includes handling complex legal matters related to international, criminal, and administrative law. The role requires the advisor to supervise the review and drafting of legal instruments, negotiate contracts, and develop legal modalities tailored to the Mechanism's unique needs. Additionally, the advisor will oversee the witness support and protection unit, contribute to bi-annual reports to the General Assembly, and provide strategic advice to ensure the successful delivery of the Mechanism's mandate. The position demands a high level of professionalism, legal expertise, and the ability to navigate sensitive legal issues while maintaining discretion and sound judgment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for providing legal advice on strategic and managerial aspects of accountability for international crimes. This includes independently handling complex legal matters, advising on contracts and legal instruments, supervising staff in the witness support unit, and overseeing administrative tasks necessary for the Mechanism's functioning. The advisor will also contribute to the Mechanism's reports to the General Assembly and provide strategic advice to the Head of the Mechanism. The role requires strong negotiating skills, the ability to influence others, and a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work. The advisor will need to manage multiple projects, meet tight deadlines, and engage with senior-level representatives from member states.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a deep knowledge of international legal procedures and instruments, particularly in criminal law. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions. Proficiency in legal writing and the ability to prepare various legal documents are essential. Candidates should also exhibit strong negotiating skills, discretion in handling sensitive matters, and a good understanding of the UN system. The role requires a commitment to gender equality and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in criminal law, international law, or humanitarian law is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with at least two years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional legal experience is required, with at least seven years specifically in international criminal law. Candidates should have experience working on large, complex international criminal cases in a multidisciplinary team at the international level. Experience in developing investigatory or prosecutorial policies for international core crimes, managing witness support and protection, and drafting or reviewing indictments is desirable. Managerial experience and familiarity with budget submissions are also beneficial.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French or Arabic is desirable, with a proficiency level of UN Level II in these languages. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, as it is the working language of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position intended for a duration of six months, with the possibility of extension. The start date is as soon as possible, and the appointment is subject to the availability of funds. Candidates should be aware that the role may involve engagement with distressing material or information. There is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment following this temporary assignment. The position is open to both internal and external candidates, with specific eligibility requirements for current staff members. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.