The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) is a worldwide organisation of judges and lawyers united in affirming international law and rule of law principles that advance human rights. Its strategic goals for 2021-2025 are: (1) to develop, defend, and strengthen international institutions, instruments, and standards on rule of law and human rights; (2) to improve domestic implementation of, and compliance with, international law and standards; (3) to bolster the effectiveness and independence of judges and lawyers; and (4) to improve access to justice for all and accountability. With its Headquarters based in Geneva, Switzerland, ICJ has a presence in Africa, Latin America, Asia & the Pacific, Europe & Central Asia, and the Middle East.
To help ensure the ICJ Europe and Central Asia Programme (ECA), we are seeking a full-time Associate Legal Adviser**.** The Associate Legal Adviser for the Europe and Central Asia (ECA) Programme supports the broader objectives of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) in promoting human rights, justice systems, the rule of law, and access to justice across the region. Based in Brussels and operating under direct supervision of the Senior Legal Adviser this position assists in implementing the ICJ's strategic initiatives, contributing to research, advocacy, and project management.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Programme Support:
- Assist in the development and execution of the ECA Programme, using ICJ’s range of legal, advocacy and capacity building tools to advance the Programme’s goals.
- Support the planning and organization of workshops, seminars, and training sessions to build the capacity of lawyers, judges and other stakeholders in the region.
Research and Analysis:
- Contribute to legal research and the preparation of reports on human rights issues relevant to the ECA region.
- Monitor and analyse developments in laws and policies affecting human rights, the Rule of Law, and access to justice.
Advocacy and Communication:
- Engaging in advocacy efforts in various forums, contributing to the creation of engaging and informative content across multiple platforms (social media, newsletters, the ICJ website) to raise awareness and support advocacy initiatives of the Programme.
- Develop and implement communication strategies, manage press relations, and produce press releases and public statements to amplify the ICJ's visibility and advocacy impact.
Legal Interventions:
- Provide assistance to the Senior Legal Adviser in preparation of legal interventions, including drafting briefs and conducting background research for cases before national and regional courts and treaty monitoring bodies.
Training and Capacity Building:
- Under the guidance of the Senior Legal Adviser, assist in designing and delivering training sessions on ICJ ECA priority issues, including the development of materials and modules.
Networking and Representation:
- Help maintain and develop relationships with governments, donors, NGOs, and other stakeholders in the human rights community.
- Under the guidance of the Senior Legal Adviser, represent the ICJ in various capacities as directed, contributing to the organisation's external communications and media work.
ICJ Network Engagement:
- Support engagement with the ICJ Network, facilitating the exchange of ideas and information on human rights issues within the ECA region.
Collaboration Across ICJ Projects:
- Work collaboratively with staff from other regional and international programmes, contributing to joint efforts and sharing updates on the ECA Programme’s activities.
Resource and Budget Management:
- Support the management of the programme’s resources and budget, including assisting in budget preparation and monitoring expenditure.
Fundraising and Reporting:
- Contribute to fundraising efforts, including drafting project proposals and maintaining donor relations.
- Prepare regular reports on programme activities for internal use and donor reporting.
Other Duties:
- Undertake additional tasks and responsibilities as requested by the Senior Legal Adviser or the Director of the ECA Programme.
QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate will have:
Education & Experience
- Law degree or equivalent legal qualification, with a specialization in human rights, international law, or related fields.
- Initial experience (1-2 years) in legal research, human rights advocacy, or related activities.
Essential Skills
- Demonstrated interest in and commitment to human rights and the rule of law.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in English; knowledge of additional languages relevant to the ECA region is highly desirable.
- Strong analytical and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects effectively.
- Experience in communications work, design, creation of audio-visual materials, development of communications strategies or management of social media is an asset.
- Team-oriented, with the capacity to work collaboratively and under supervision in a multicultural environment.
- This role is designed for individuals eager to start their career in human rights law and advocacy, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to and learn from the ICJ's efforts to promote justice and human rights in Europe and Central Asia.