Senior Litigation Expert at the African Union (AU)

The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of the 55 member states that make up the countries of the African Continent. It was officially launched in 2002 as a successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU, 1963-1999).  We are an Integrated, Prosperous and Peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

The African Union invites applicants who are citizens of Member States to apply for the post below at the African Court on Human And People's Rights:

Job Title: Senior Litigation Expert (Fixed term, non-renewable)

Vacancy No: ACHPR/2021/03
Duty Station: Banjul, The Gambia
Employment type: Fixed term, Non - renewable
Grade: P3-5
Supervisor: Secretary to the Commission
Department: African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Job Details

• The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) is an organ of the African Union established by virtue of Article 30 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. It was adopted by the OAU Assembly on 28 June 1981 and came into force on 21 October 1986 under the Organization of the African Unity to promote human and Peoples’ Rights and ensure their protection in Africa. The ACHPR’s was inaugurated on 12 June 1989 and its seat is in Banjul, the Gambia.

Job Purpose

• Be responsible to work closely with the Commission to prepare document on cases for referral to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Under the overall supervision and guidance of the Secretary to the Commission, the Senior Litigation Expert shall perform the following duties and responsibilities:
  • Assist Commissioners in drafting legal pleadings  on communications pending before the Commission and which require referral to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights;
  • Assist Commissioners in drafting replies on cases before the Court;
  • Prepare reports and fact sheets on the status of cases assigned to him/her;
  • Timely follow up on cases assigned to him/her;
  • Assist Commissioners in legal research and analysis of legislation and jurisprudence;
  • Liaise with relevant stakeholders to gather needed information to buttress arguments in the case;
  • Provide legal assistance to the Secretary to the Commission in  her day-to-day work as may be required;
  • Perform any other duties as required.

Academic Requirements and Work Experience

• Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Law with a minimum of eight (8) postgraduate work experience or a Master’s Degree in Human Rights with five (5) years postgraduate work experience. Admission to the Bar in an AU Member State and practicing as an Attorney or Advocate is an added advantage. Any other qualification in the area of human rights law would be an added advantage.
• Candidates must be familiar with the African Human Rights system.  He/she must have an experience in drafting legal pleadings and court litigation preferably on human rights and before regional or international mechanisms; experience with the African Court will be an added advantage.

Other Relevant Skills:

• An in-depth understanding of the African human rights system and of comparative or international human rights law;
• Good knowledge of the African Union policies and procedures;
• Excellent drafting legal pleadings and argumentative skills;
• Strong analytical skills and ability to prepare legal submissions and opinions;
• Concentration, accuracy, and ability to work under minimum supervision and under pressure;
• Respect for confidentiality and good public relations;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment;
• Good communication and planning skills;
• Demonstrable knowledge of international organizations;
• Computer literacy

Core Competencies:

• Building Relationship: Establishes a wide network of internal and external contacts that enables the individual to gather information and utilise the strengths and abilities of others in order to enhance organisational and performance.
• Forster Accountability Culture: Anticipates obstacles realistically and plans for contingencies-creates plans that factor in time for unexpected problems and uncertainties.
• Learning Orientation: Develops and monitors the implementation of learning and development plans for the team. Establishes mechanisms to facilitate and encourage knowledge sharing in own area.
• Communication with Influence: Projects authority and credibility and makes impact. Communicates in a clear, to-the-point and convincing manner in order to inform or influence opinions of others. Presents the key points of the argument persuasively.

Language Requirement:

• Candidates must have an excellent command of at least one of the African Union working languages.

Tenure of Appointment:

• The appointment will be made on a fixed term contract for a period of two (2) years six (6) months (Non-renewable)

Gender Mainstreaming:

• The ACHPR is an equal opportunity employer; qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Salary
US $88,832.14 per annum.

Application Closing Date
5th May, 2021.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send a complete application which should include a cover letter, a CV, relevant certificate/diploma, at least 1 reference, and any other material/ information deemed necessary to supporting the application.

Applications may be submitted via email to: [email protected]  with the subject line "Senior Litigation Expert" or in person.

Applications should be addressed to the postal address indicated below:
Secretariat of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights,
31 Bijilo Annex Layout, Kombo North District, Western Region,
P.O. Box 673, Banjul,
The Gambia
Tel: (+220) 441 05 05, (+220) 441 05 06

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Note: Only candidates shortlisted for interviews will be contacted.