UN Investigator (Temporary)

UN Investigator (Temporary)

United Nations Secretariat

July 23, 2026August 4, 2026ViennaAustria
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Afghanistan (IIMA) was established by the Human Rights Council Resolution 60/
  • Its mission is to collect, consolidate, preserve, and analyze evidence of international crimes and serious violations of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law in Afghanistan. The IIMA aims to prepare case files to facilitate fair and independent criminal proceedings in accordance with international law standards. The organization operates with a focus on the protection of human rights, particularly for women and girls, and is currently based in Vienna, pending the final determination of its seat.

Job Overview:
The UN Investigator will play a crucial role in conducting investigations into serious breaches of international humanitarian law, including genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. The position requires the Investigator to supervise other investigators during field missions, ensuring that comprehensive investigation plans and reports are prepared. The Investigator will also be responsible for obtaining signed statements from survivors in challenging environments, coordinating with various stakeholders, and managing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security risks associated with evidence gathering. This role demands a high level of professionalism and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and external partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Participate in investigations of serious breaches of international humanitarian law, supervising other investigators during field missions. 2) Oversee the preparation of investigation plans, reports, and briefs. 3) Ensure the collection of signed statements from survivors, utilizing interpreters when necessary. 4) Act as the focal point for developing protocols and procedures to manage security risks. 5) Represent the IIMA in briefings and conferences with various stakeholders. 6) Identify, collect, and preserve physical evidence, maintaining evidential chains of custody. 7) Collaborate with national prosecutors and law enforcement agencies. 8) Coordinate witness attendance at statements and court proceedings. 9) Arrange witness protection measures. 10) Perform administrative functions related to IIMA policies. 11) Assist with forensic projects as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a proven ability to conduct large-scale criminal investigations and analyze complex political and military activities related to war crimes. They should have sound investigative experience and knowledge of various research methodologies. The ability to gather evidence and interview witnesses is essential, along with a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and the ability to work under pressure.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in law, international law, criminal investigation, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with formal qualifications in investigations and additional work experience may be accepted. Formal qualifications in investigations from recognized institutions, along with relevant work experience, may also be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible work experience in law enforcement or criminal investigations involving serious breaches of international humanitarian law is required. Experience with international or multilateral institutions is essential, along with a background in gathering evidence and interviewing suspects. Desirable experience includes work related to the Central Asia region and issues of sexual and gender-based crimes.

Languages:
English is required at UN Level III proficiency, while Dari is desirable at UN Level I proficiency. Candidates should demonstrate strong skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English, with a basic understanding of Dari being beneficial.

Additional Notes:
The position is temporary and subject to the continuation of the mandate and availability of funds. Selected candidates may be offered a temporary assignment, which does not guarantee future employment. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request. The recruitment process is free of charge, and candidates are advised to follow all application instructions carefully.
Apply now
Similar Jobs