Legal Intern

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Position Title: Legal Intern
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) was established to assist in the investigation and prosecution of persons responsible for the most serious crimes under law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">International Law committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 201

• The IIIM operates under the auspices of the United Nations and aims to ensure accountability for these crimes. The organization is committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law, and it works closely with national, regional, and international courts and tribunals. The IIIM is a relatively new entity, having been established in 2017, and it employs a diverse team of legal experts and support staff dedicated to its mission. The organization operates primarily in Geneva, Switzerland, but its work has implications and outreach in various countries affected by the Syrian conflict.

Job Overview:
The Legal Intern position is situated within the Support and Sharing Section (SSS) of the IIIM. The intern will work closely with the P2 Associate Legal Officer and will be involved in various aspects of legal research and analysis related to international criminal law, human rights, and public international law. The intern's primary responsibilities will include conducting legal research on assigned issues, assisting in monitoring judicial proceedings, and mapping relevant legislative frameworks. This internship is particularly focused on assessing legislation and legal developments in francophone countries, necessitating fluency in French. The intern will be expected to engage in full-time work, adhering to core working hours from Monday to Friday, with the possibility of overtime to meet project deadlines. This role is designed to provide valuable hands-on experience in a professional legal environment, contributing to the IIIM's mission of promoting accountability for serious crimes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Legal Intern in the Support and Sharing Section include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting comprehensive legal research on a variety of issues related to domestic and international criminal law, human rights, and public international law, utilizing multiple research sources and tools.
• Assisting in the monitoring of judicial proceedings and administrative developments that are pertinent to the work of the IIIM, with a specific emphasis on criminal judicial proceedings concerning violations of international criminal law.
• Mapping and analyzing legislative frameworks and developments that are relevant to the SSS's work.
• Collaborating with other team members to prepare reports and presentations based on research findings.
• Engaging in discussions and meetings with legal experts and stakeholders to gather insights and information.
• Maintaining confidentiality regarding all unpublished information obtained during the internship.
• Completing assigned tasks within deadlines and contributing to the overall objectives of the IIIM.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). Candidates should be pursuing or have pursued their degree in fields related to this job opening, such as Law, international relations, human rights, or political affairs. While professional work experience is not required for the UN Internship Programme, a field of study closely related to the internship is essential. Candidates must provide proof of their academic status and qualifications in their application.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes being a student in the final year of a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or being enrolled in or having completed a Master’s or Ph.D. program. Candidates must have a strong academic foundation in areas relevant to the internship, such as Law, international relations, human rights, or political affairs. Documentation proving enrollment or completion of the relevant degree program must be submitted with the application.

Experience:
While applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience, it is essential that they have a strong academic background in a field related to the internship. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of legal principles, particularly in the context of international law and human rights. Experience in legal research, writing, or analysis, even if gained through academic projects or internships, will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written French is mandatory for this internship, as the work will involve assessing legislation and legal developments in francophone countries. Additionally, knowledge of spoken and written English is required, as English and French are the working languages of the Secretariat. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, particularly in a legal context.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment. The expected duration is two months, starting from 1 April 2025, with the possibility of extension to three months. Interns are responsible for all related expenses, including travel, accommodation, and living costs. A complete online application is required, including two letters of recommendation, copies of university transcripts, a sample of written work, and a cover letter. Interns must maintain confidentiality regarding any unpublished information obtained during the internship and are bound by the same duties and obligations as staff members. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates must secure any necessary visas prior to their internship.