Legal Research Assistant

Result of ServiceThe objective of this contract is to conduct briefs and background research in support of ESCWA’s programme in Syria. The Legal Research Assistant will be responsible for delivering comprehensive legal research and regulatory frameworks, analytical summaries, policy briefs, and reports on key policy issues. Work LocationUN-House ESCWA Expected duration6 Months Duties and ResponsibilitiesAs part of its mandate to promote human development and support democratic transition in the region, ESCWA implemented the NAFS programme since 2012. The programme has served as an inclusive platform for technical dialogue among Syrians from all backgrounds. It remained one of the key platforms to systematically assess the policy needs for a post-conflict Syria. The Syrian conflict has profoundly impacted the country's socioeconomic fabric, resulting in institutional collapse and widespread displacement. As Syria enters a transitional phase following the fall of the regime, a critical window of opportunity has emerged to rebuild governance structures, promote social cohesion, and support economic recovery. In response to the evolving context, ESCWA continues to implement a range of projects and initiatives building on its long-standing efforts under NAFS to support Syria’s transitional phase. These include research, analysis, and activities designed to support the transition and reform processes, aligned with the needs and priorities of Syrians. Under the supervision of the Syria Portfolio Coordinator/NAFS Programme manager, the Legal Research Assistant will be responsible for the following duties: • Conducts primary and secondary research on assigned topics. • Conducts legal research, including the review of laws and regulations pertinent to key policy issues in Syria, and drafts briefs and comparative analyses to inform discussions and reform efforts. • Prepares comprehensive written reviews and analytical summaries of Arabic and English literature on specific themes. • Prepares comprehensive reports on the legislative and institutional frameworks governing specific sectors in Syria. • Contributes to the drafting and finalization of written outputs on Syria. • Take detailed notes during meetings and focus groups. • Assists with other tasks as required by the Programme Manager. Qualifications/special skillsA Bachelor’s degree in law and international affairs, or any other related field is required. An advanced university degree in these fields is desirable. All candidates must submit a copy of the required educational degree. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. A minimum of 7 years of professional work experience in legal studies is required. Excellent communication and teamwork skills is required. Experience in conducting research on Syria or other conflict affected countries is required. Experience and knowledge of legislative and regulatory frameworks, particularly in conducting research on legal issues, is required. Previous experience and knowledge of United Nations Rules and Procedures is desirable. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat; and Arabic is a working language of ESCWA. For this position, fluency in English is required, fluency in Arabic is required. Note: \" Fluency\" equals a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (speak, read, write, and understand). Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE 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.