The position is located within the Rule of Law and Security Institutions Section (RoLSIS) of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The incumbent will be based in Juba and report to the Chief of Service, Rule of Law or a delegated Senior Rule of Law Officer.
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Associate Rule of Law Officer will be responsible for the following: • Supports the implementation of rule of law strategies and interventions in line with UNMISS mandate of protection of civilians and enhancing accountability for serious crimes, including SGBV / CRSV in South Sudan. • Researches and compiles legal materials on South Sudanese law and practice for use in the preparation of team’s legal opinions and strategic advice for presentations to internal and external stakeholders. • Facilitates and coordinates meetings and other engagements with senior national officials and other external partners, ensuring timely confirmation of meetings, preparation of draft agenda and compilation of relevant background materials; drafting of accurate notes to file on all agreed-upon action points; and maintains trust and relationship with national officials. • Under supervision, may review, summarize and index significant national laws, rulings, recommendations, etc. to ensure consistency and accuracy under South Sudanese law and practice. • Provides general office support services; drafts, edits, proofreads and finalizes for signature and/or process a variety of correspondence and other communications; maintains accurate electronic and paper files/records. • Maintains updated library (electronic and paper) of all South Sudanese laws and regulations approved by Parliament and signed by the President, as well as a database of all pending legislation. • Performs other ad hoc duties as assigned.
Competencies
Professionalism: Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of peace operations. Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently. Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Education
Advance university (master’s degree or equivalent) degree in Law, Public Administration, Political Science, International Relations, or related field is required. A first-level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.
Job – Specific Qualification and Experience
At least two (2) years with a master’s degree or equivalent or four (4) years with a LLB or equivalent, of progressively responsible, professional experience in legal work is required. Practical experience in paralegal work with an emphasis on South Sudanese criminal or civil or administrative procedures is required Experience in researching and analyzing legal issues under South Sudanese laws and practice is required. Demonstrated familiarity with South Sudan national justice system and institutions (police, prosecution, courts, and corrections) is required.
Language
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position(s) advertised, fluency in English is required; Knowledge of Arabic and other local languages spoken in South Sudan is desirable.
