Application Deadline: May 5, 2021
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.
The ACHPR invites applications from citizens of African Union Members States for the following position:
1. Post
Job Title: Senior Litigation Expert (Fixed term, non-renewable)
Grade: P3-5
Department: African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
Supervisor: Secretary to the Commission
Duty Station: Banjul, The Gambia
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Other Relevant Skills
i. An in-depth understanding of the African human rights system and of comparative or international human rights law;
ii. Good knowledge of the African Union policies and procedures;
iii. Excellent drafting legal pleadings and argumentative skills;
iv. Strong analytical skills and ability to prepare legal submissions and opinions;
v. Concentration, accuracy, and ability to work under minimum supervision and under pressure;
vi. Respect for confidentiality and good public relations;
vii. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment;
viii. Good communication and planning skills;
ix. Demonstrable knowledge of international organizations;
x. Computer literacy.
6. Core Competencies
i. 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.
ii. Forster Accountability Culture: Anticipates obstacles realistically and plans for contingencies-creates plans that factor in time for unexpected problems and uncertainties.
iii. 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.
iv. 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.
7. Language Requirement
Candidates must have an excellent command of at least one of the African Union working languages.
8. 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)
9. Gender Mainstreaming
The ACHPR is an equal opportunity employer; qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.
10. Remuneration
The net salary for this post shall be $88,832.14 per annum (all-inclusive)
11. Submission of Applications
– Complete application 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 or in person.
– Via email, send to Achpr.Humanresources@Africa-
– Applications should be submitted no later than 05 May 2021 and should be addressed to the postal address or email 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
E-mail: Achpr.Humanresources@Africa-
NB:
1. Only candidates shortlisted for interviews will be contacted.
For application details, visit https://www.achpr.org/
