Position: Africa Legal & Advocacy Officer
Work percentage: 100%
Contract Length: Open-ended contract, in accordance with legal requirements of place of employment
Location: Preferred location in Africa or ISHR’s office in Geneva
Start Date: As soon as possible
Reports To: Senior Programme Manager (Africa)
Applications Close: 02 March 2025 (midnight Geneva time)
The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) is an independent, non-profit organisation with offices in Geneva and New York.
This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to our work in Africa by supporting human rights defenders, strengthening human rights systems, building and leading human rights coalitions, and responding to significant and systemic human rights concerns.
Position Overview
Under the supervision of the Senior Programme Manager (Africa), the Africa Legal and Advocacy Officer plays a key role in supporting ISHR’s initiatives to strengthen the legislative protection of human rights defenders (HRDs) in Africa.
The officer will also be involved in advocacy at the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and engage with country situations at the UN Human Rights Council. This role requires participation in ISHR’s broader programmes focused on transparency, rule of law, and equality and non-discrimination.
Travel: Regular travel within Africa and to ISHR offices (Geneva/New York) is expected, sometimes on short notice.
Key Responsibilities
Support Legislative Protection of Human Rights Defenders:
- Develop and maintain relationships with national and regional organizations in Africa regarding HRD protection.
- Research and advocate on national legal frameworks affecting HRDs, particularly restrictive laws.
- Monitor the implementation of HRD laws in relevant countries.
- Maintain ISHR’s world map analyzing laws aimed at promoting and protecting HRDs in Africa.
- Support local advocacy activities and campaigns focused on HRD protection.
- Assist in capacity strengthening initiatives in African countries through consultations and workshops.
- Engage in strategic litigation to promote HRDs’ legal recognition and challenge restrictive legislation.
- Establish and animate a network of legal professionals in Africa to further ISHR’s goals.
Advocacy at National, Regional, and International Levels:
- Design and implement advocacy strategies to influence policies related to the protection of HRDs in Africa.
- Monitor developments in regional mechanisms relevant to HRD standards and engage accordingly.
- Prepare for and participate in sessions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
- Engage with State representatives, civil society, and regional officials to advocate for HRDs.
- Collaborate with the UN Human Rights Council team to advocate for HRD recognition and protection.
- Draft reports, briefing papers, and other documents to support ISHR’s advocacy objectives.
- Promote ISHR’s work effectively within and outside the organization.
Qualifications
Required:
- University degree in human rights law, public international law, or a related area (lawyer admission in an African jurisdiction is a plus).
- At least 5 years of experience in human rights law, policy, or advocacy.
- Strong knowledge of international legal matters related to HRDs, and familiarity with the African human rights systems, particularly the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
- Experience in legal research, advocacy on civic space issues, and knowledge of restrictive legislation affecting HRDs.
- Proven skills in organizing training and workshops.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
- Strong project management and prioritization skills.
- Proficiency in English and French (legal proficiency is essential).
Desirable:
- Fluency in another language spoken in Africa (e.g., Portuguese, Arabic, Swahili).
Remuneration
The monthly salary for this position ranges from EUR 3,000.00 to EUR 3,500.00, based on qualifications, experience, and location in Africa.
Equal Opportunity
ISHR is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunity. We strive for a diverse team and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including those from historically marginalized groups.
To request accommodation during the application or interview process, contact ISHR’s Human Resources at hr@ishr.ch.
Applications
To apply, please fill out the application form available on our website and attach the following:
- Cover letter
- CV (no profile picture)
- One writing sample
All applications will be processed in accordance with ISHR’s Privacy Policy.
Deadline for Applications: 02 March 2025 (midnight Geneva time)
Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. APPLY HERE.
To apply for this job please visit ishr.ch.