Human Rights Officer/Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel, was established by the Human Rights Council to investigate violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law in the context of the ongoing conflict. The Commission operates under the mandate of the Human Rights Council and aims to provide accountability and justice for victims of human rights violations. The organization is committed to upholding the highest standards of human rights and ensuring that investigations are conducted impartially and thoroughly. The Commission is composed of experts in human rights law and operates with a focus on transparency and inclusivity, engaging with various stakeholders to gather information and insights relevant to its investigations.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer/Legal Officer will play a crucial role in advising the Commission on legal matters related to the human rights situation under investigation. This position requires a deep understanding of international law and human rights standards, as the incumbent will be responsible for conducting legal analysis, drafting investigation plans, and providing legal qualifications of gathered information. The role also involves identifying trends and patterns of human rights violations, ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into legal analyses, and advising the investigation team on accountability measures. The officer will work closely with the Legal Advisor and the investigation team to ensure that all legal findings are robust and well-supported by evidence. This position is vital for ensuring that the Commission's work is grounded in a solid legal framework and that the rights of victims are prioritized throughout the investigative process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer/Legal Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: advising the investigation team on applicable legal frameworks and standards; conducting thorough analysis and research on legal matters related to the investigation; drafting investigation plans and legal documents; suggesting legal qualifications for gathered information; advising on standards of proof and identifying responsible parties; conducting information gathering activities, including interviews and analysis of open-source materials; ensuring that legal analyses reflect gender perspectives; advising on legal findings and potential recommendations for accountability measures; and performing any other duties as required by the Legal Advisor or the Commission.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in international law, human rights, and humanitarian law. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks governing human rights investigations and the ability to apply this knowledge effectively in practice. The position requires excellent analytical skills, the ability to conduct independent research, and a strong commitment to upholding human rights standards. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and the ability to work under pressure while managing conflicting priorities. A commitment to gender equality and the integration of gender perspectives in legal analyses is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international law or a related discipline is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for ensuring that the incumbent has the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to perform the duties of the role effectively.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible work experience in human rights, international humanitarian law, or international criminal law is required. At least two years of experience providing legal analysis to human rights investigative bodies or tribunals is essential. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the candidate can navigate complex legal issues and contribute meaningfully to the Commission's work.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations. Proficiency in French is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 31 December 2025, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. The appointment is subject to the conditions of temporary assignments within the United Nations system. Candidates should be aware that this position may be limited to internal candidates or those who meet specific eligibility criteria based on funding sources. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disability. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.