Result of Service
• Development of comprehensive policies, directives, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to strengthen AUSSOM’s compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and human rights efforts, including sustainable mechanisms for the prevention of and response to violations. • Strengthened AUSSOM’s adherence to IHL, human rights, and the UN Secretary-General’s Human Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP). • Enhanced operational compliance and delivering targeted IHL training to AUSSOM and Somali National Army (SNA) forces during joint operations. • Enhanced oversight and accountability frameworks to ensure that AUSSOM’s military operations are conducted in full respect of international humanitarian and human rights law.
Work Location
Mogadishu, Somalia
Expected duration
Twelve months
Duties and Responsibilities
Organization Setting and Reporting: This position is in the Office of the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia and Head of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The incumbent reports to the SRCC. The focus of this position is to provide high-level expert advice to the SRCC for Somalia and Head of AUSSOM, AUSSOM Force Commander and other senior officials on all matters relating to International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and human rights applicable in Somalia. Roles and Responsibilities: • To provide high-level expert advice to the SRCC and other senior officials on all matters relating to international humanitarian law and human rights applicable in Somalia. This advice will include human rights and protection of civilians in Somalia and would involve assisting in the development of policy guidelines and best practice. • Develop together with AUSSOM leadership strategies for the promotion, protection, education, policy and practice of human rights in the mission, including through regular briefings and training for AUSSOM officers, and developing rules, guidelines and best practice. • Assist AUSSOM in developing the capacity to analyze, investigate, and where necessary supervise investigations of IHL and human rights violations and report on allegations of abuses of human rights, including reports of civilian casualties caused by AUSSOM. Also, to assist in developing a mechanism for fair, equitable and timely amends payments to victims, where possible. • Support AUSSOM leadership in the implementation of the HRDDP including with respect to strengthening mitigating measures. • Conduct legal analysis and research on various legal matters pertaining to the application of international humanitarian law governing the conduct of military operations in Somalia; • Designs, as appropriate, delivers and evaluates IHL and human rights training programmes for AUSSOM personnel. • To assist AUSSOM leadership in developing capacity in the provision of training in IHL and human rights for AUSSOM and Somali National Army (SNA) and with monitoring and evaluation exercise of trainings and ensure that such training is conducted in accordance with AU-UN training standard. • To assist AUSSOM leadership to engage in dialogue and consultation with Somali human rights organizations, in order to understand and address any concerns, and to build trust and confidence that would facilitate information sharing. • Provide assistance to AUSSOM leadership in establishing a framework for partnership with humanitarian agencies, other international organizations and NGOs on issues of human rights and protection of civilians.
Qualifications/special skills
Education: A minimum of a master’s degree or equivalent, preferably in International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights Law, or a closely related field. A specialization in International Humanitarian Law is considered a strong asset. Work Experience: At least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in the field of International Humanitarian Law and human rights. Prior experience working with the African Union is highly desirable. 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; Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Team work: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is eager and willing to learn from others; places team’s 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. Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honors commitments; Delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; Operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; Supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; Takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit where applicable.
Languages
Fluency in English is required for the advertised post. Knowledge of Somali is an advantage.
Additional Information
Not available.
No Fee
THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.
