Judicial Affairs Officer

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Position Title: Judicial Affairs Officer
Location: Bangui
Country: Central African Republic
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) was established in April 2014 by the UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council. Its mission is to address the security, humanitarian, human rights, and political crises in the Central African Republic (CAR) and its regional implications. The mission prioritizes the protection of civilians and has a mandate that includes supporting the transition process, facilitating humanitarian assistance, promoting and protecting human rights, and supporting justice and the rule of law. MINUSCA has a significant presence with 11,650 military personnel and 2,080 police personnel, all working towards creating a stable environment conducive to reducing the threats posed by armed groups. The mission has subsumed the UN Integrated Peacebuilding Office in CAR (BINUCA) and has taken over military and police authority from the African Union-led peacekeeping operation (MISCA).

Job Overview:
The Judicial Affairs Officer position is crucial for the effective functioning of the Justice and Corrections Section (JCS) within MINUSCA. Under the general supervision of the Chief of JCS and direct supervision of a senior Judicial Affairs Officer or regional Head of Justice team, the officer will be responsible for gathering and analyzing information related to national justice and rule of law institutions, as well as MINUSCA's activities in these areas. The officer will draft and edit reports, assist in strategic planning, maintain statistical data on the justice sector, and support coordination with other mission components to advance justice-related issues. The role also involves providing advisory support to local judicial institutions and facilitating knowledge sharing within the mission. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work independently in a politically sensitive environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Judicial Affairs Officer include:

• Gathering and analyzing information on developments in national justice and rule of law institutions and MINUSCA activities.
• Drafting and editing daily and weekly reports for the JCS, ensuring contributions from all sections are incorporated.
• Assisting in the preparation and implementation of strategic planning documents, including Results-Based Budgeting.
• Preparing and maintaining statistical tables on the justice sector in CAR.
• Supporting technical coordination with other mission components to advance justice-related issues.
• Participating in advisory support to local judicial institutions as part of MINUSCA's mandate.
• Facilitating knowledge building and sharing among mission personnel.
• Performing other related duties as required by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Judicial Affairs Officer position must demonstrate integrity and professionalism, with a strong ability to apply good judgment in politically sensitive environments. They should possess effective organizational and problem-solving skills, with the capacity to manage a high volume of work efficiently. The ability to establish priorities and coordinate multiple projects is essential. Candidates must also exhibit teamwork skills, respect for diversity, and strong communication abilities, both written and verbal. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as the role may require independent operation in austere and potentially hazardous environments. A genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement and UN core values is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant educational background, typically a master's degree in law, international relations, or a related field. A strong understanding of international law, human rights, and justice systems is essential for effective performance in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in the field of law, justice, or related areas. Experience in international organizations or peacekeeping missions is highly desirable. The ability to work in a challenging environment and manage complex situations is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of French is highly desirable. Proficiency in other languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bangui, Central African Republic, which is classified as a non-family duty station with a challenging security environment. The country has a security level of 4, restricting movement to official travel only. Living conditions are difficult, with limited medical infrastructure and high costs of living. UN personnel are advised to comply with security instructions and may need to share accommodations due to high rental costs. The position may involve extensive travel within the area of operations, and candidates should be prepared for the physical and psychological demands of working in such an environment.