Senior Legal Adviser

Who we are

The Diakonia International Humanitarian Law Centre is an independent expert group that provides rapid and in-depth advice on the laws of war to ensure the protection of persons in conflict zones worldwide. Through our progressive and inclusive approach, we aspire to secure the strongest possible protection for every person affected by armed conflict.

Our legal experts share knowledge about and promote international law relevant for situations of armed conflict through research, advocacy, and training with a view to maximizing humanitarian protection. Our rapid and in-depth analyses enable the humanitarian sector to respond to urgent needs and improve the inclusive understanding and application of international law. 

The Centre is part of the Swedish development organisation Diakonia and has regional teams based in Bamako, Beirut, Geneva, and Jerusalem, which cover conflicts in the Middle East, West Africa, and emerging crises worldwide.

The Syria Regional Desk

The Syria Regional Desk works with humanitarian actors and organisations in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, to enhance humanitarian protection and generate greater respect for international humanitarian law in Syria.

Purpose of the position

Diakonia International Humanitarian Law Centre is looking for a Senior Legal Adviser who will report to Manager, Syria Regional Desk. As a part of the organisation’s commitment to promoting respect for international humanitarian law, the Senior Legal Adviser will play a vital role in conducting legal research, providing analysis, and delivering training on international law. Join us in our impactful and change-driven work for more protection in conflict settings. 

Main responsibilities

The Senior Legal Adviser will work closely with a team of legal, advocacy, policy, and programme experts at the Diakonia International Humanitarian Law Centre's Syria Regional Desk. Their primary responsibilities will include conducting legal research, drafting reports and briefs, and delivering training sessions and presentations.

Specific responsibilities

The Senior Legal Adviser will have the following specific responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive legal analysis on international humanitarian law, international human rights law, and other relevant areas of international law.
• Carry out extensive legal research and analysis to support the development of legal briefs, reports, fact sheets, and responses to inquiries.
• Stay informed about political and legal developments, focusing on human rights and justice mechanisms, both at the regional (mainly Syria, Iraq and Yemen) and international levels.
   
• Strengthen the visibility and influence of the IHLRD through active participation in key advocacy platforms, establishing effective relationships with stakeholders, and proposing strategic advocacy activities.
• Develop and deliver engaging training programs on international law, emphasising compliance and integration within humanitarian and development initiatives.
• Collaborate with colleagues for peer review of legal analysis, presentations, and draft reports, ensuring accuracy and quality of work.
•  Promote gender and environment mainstreaming within the organisation, actively supporting capacity building initiatives, and upholding strict standards of confidentiality in handling sensitive legal matters.

Qualifications and skills

• Hold a law degree (JD or LLM) specialising in international humanitarian law, human rights law, and international criminal law.
• 5 years’ experience in similar assignments.
• Demonstrate strong language proficiency in Arabic and excellent written English skills.
• Possess exceptional analytical, research, writing, and editing abilities, effectively communicating complex legal concepts.
• Show proficiency in building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders, including diplomats, policymakers, and government officials.
• Display solid organisational skills, including multitasking and effective prioritisation.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with emphasis on public speaking and presentations.
• Have in-depth knowledge of conflict-affected contexts in the Middle East region, adaptability to fast-paced and multicultural environments, and willingness to travel.

Location: Flexible (Beirut/Stockholm/Possible Europe & MENA Wide Mobility)

Duration: Full-time position (37.5 hours per week), fixed-term contract until December 31, 2024 with the possibility of extension.