Senior Legal Researcher

ACRLI is currently implementing the "Inclusive Democratic Participation: Enhancing Education, Engagement, and Oversight in Lebanon" project, funded by the European Union, in partnership with the European Center for Electoral Support (ECES).

This project aims to promote civic engagement, strengthen democratic processes, and enhance good governance. This initiative seeks to empower diverse stakeholders—including civil society organizations (CSOs), policymakers, and marginalized groups—to foster inclusive decision-making and participatory governance. Through capacity-building, research, and advocacy, ACRLI aims to contribute to a more transparent, accountable, and democratic society. 

To support its implementation, ACRLI is seeking a senior legal researcher to lead and conduct in-depth legal research and analysis to support the development and implementation of policies, programs, and projects. This role involves reviewing and interpreting legal documents, statutes, regulations, and case law and providing expert advice on legal matters. The senior legal researcher will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including legal, policy, and advocacy experts, and will be responsible for preparing reports, and briefings for stakeholders. 

Under the guidance of the Chief Technical Advisor and the Project Manager, the Senior Legal Researcher will be responsible for the following tasks:

1. Research and Analysis

• Conduct in-depth legal research and analysis on Lebanon’s electoral laws, regulations, and practices.
• Examine the current legal framework governing elections in Lebanon, including the      Lebanese Constitution, electoral laws, and any relevant international agreements.
• Assess the effectiveness and challenges of the current electoral system and identify     areas for reform, including the legal implications of proposed changes.

1. Comparative Analysis
   • Undertake comparative studies of electoral systems and laws in other countries, particularly those with similar socio-political contexts.
   • Identify best practices and lessons learned that could be applied to Lebanon’s electoral system.
2. Legal Advice and Recommendations
   • Provide legal expertise and advice on electoral reforms, including the drafting of recommendations for improving the legal framework.
   • Contribute to the preparation of policy briefs and reports, outlining legal findings and suggestions for enhancing Lebanon’s electoral system.
3. Stakeholder Engagement
   • Support consultations with key stakeholders, including Lebanese authorities, political parties, civil society, and international organizations, to gather input on legal reforms.
   • Facilitate legal discussions, focus groups and workshops, if necessary, to encourage dialogue and build consensus around proposed electoral reforms.
4. Reporting and Documentation
   • Draft and present regular reports on research progress, findings, and recommendations.
   • Ensure proper documentation and reporting on all legal aspects of the project’s activities, in line with the project’s objectives and goals.
5. Collaboration with Team Members
   • Work closely with the Chief Technical Advisor, Project Manager, and other project team members to ensure smooth implementation of project activities.
   • Participate in team meetings and contribute to the development of work plans and deliverables.
6. Other Tasks
   • Undertake any other legal tasks related to the election system, as required by the project.

1. Qualifications And Competencies

2.1 Education

• • A law degree (Master’s or equivalent) with strong knowledge in electoral law, constitutional law, governance, or related fields.

2.2 Experience

• At least 5 years of professional experience in legal research, particularly in the field of law.
• Proven experience in developing research and analysis papers, working on legal reform projects, ideally in the context of Lebanon or the MENA region.
•  Experience in providing legal advice and developing policy recommendations related to governance and legal frameworks

2.3 Skills

• • Strong knowledge of Lebanese electoral laws and constitutional provisions.
  • Experience in comparative legal analysis and identifying best practices from international contexts.
  • Excellent analytical, research, and drafting skills.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to present complex legal concepts clearly and effectively.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting.