Assessment Period
All applicants should regularly check the United Nations HR Portal at https://hr.un.org/page/assessment or their "My Upcoming Test Schedule" page in Inspira for any updates/changes after the closing of this job opening, particularly during the week before the scheduled testing dates.
Please note that applicants who apply as rostered candidates are not subject to any further assessment and accordingly, will not be invited to participate in the SPT or any other assessments (including any written exam, interview, etc.) throughout the selection process. For more information about the assessment process, please visit the United Nations HR Portal.
Please note that applicants who apply as rostered candidates are not subject to any further assessment and accordingly, will not be invited to participate in the SPT or any other assessments (including any written exam, interview, etc.) throughout the selection process. For more information about the assessment process, please visit the United Nations HR Portal.
Self-Assessment Questionnaire
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Special Notice
Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers in accordance with established rules and procedures.
Extension of the appointment is subject to extension of the mandate and/or the availability of the funds.
Staff members of the United Nations Secretariat must fulfil the lateral move(s) or geographical requirements as set out in ST/AI/2016/1 to be eligible to apply for this job opening. Staff members are requested to indicate all qualifying lateral or geographical move(s) in their Personal History Profile (PHP) and cover note.
Extension of the appointment is subject to extension of the mandate and/or the availability of the funds.
Staff members of the United Nations Secretariat must fulfil the lateral move(s) or geographical requirements as set out in ST/AI/2016/1 to be eligible to apply for this job opening. Staff members are requested to indicate all qualifying lateral or geographical move(s) in their Personal History Profile (PHP) and cover note.
Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is located in United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) Bamako is classified as a “C” hardship duty station and a non-family duty station. The Chief of Rule of Law reports to the Deputy Special Representative to the Secretary General (DSRSG/HC/RC/RR).
Mandate The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) was established by Security Council resolution 2100 of 25 April 2013 to support political processes in that country and carry out a number of security-related tasks.
MINUSMA’s mandate was further amended by Security Resolution 2295 (2016), renewing its mandate until 30 June 2016.This mandate, essentially, is refocused on the implementation of the Peace Agreement and the supervision of the ceasefire. Besides the specific tasks assigned to MINUSMA, the Security Council in its Resolution 2295 establishes the obligations of the Malian parties to the Peace and National Reconciliation Agreement and of the relevant international actors, including the Comité de Suivi de l’Accord (Agreement Monitoring Committee) and its members.
In particular, the mandate of the Mission focuses its activities on key tasks related to the implementation of the peace agreement: Ceasefire; support for the implementation of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali; good offices; and reconciliation. http://www.un.org/en/peacekeeping/missions/minusma/
MINUSMA’s mandate was further amended by Security Resolution 2295 (2016), renewing its mandate until 30 June 2016.This mandate, essentially, is refocused on the implementation of the Peace Agreement and the supervision of the ceasefire. Besides the specific tasks assigned to MINUSMA, the Security Council in its Resolution 2295 establishes the obligations of the Malian parties to the Peace and National Reconciliation Agreement and of the relevant international actors, including the Comité de Suivi de l’Accord (Agreement Monitoring Committee) and its members.
In particular, the mandate of the Mission focuses its activities on key tasks related to the implementation of the peace agreement: Ceasefire; support for the implementation of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali; good offices; and reconciliation. http://www.un.org/en/peacekeeping/missions/minusma/
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Chief of Rule of Law is responsible for the following duties:
• Provides advice to senior management on policy and matters related to: Strategic planning and management of the Malian justice sector, including legal, judicial and corrections institutions; Legislative and regulatory drafting, enactment and revisions in the Ministry of Justice and National Assembly; Legal and regulatory impact upon business environment and economic growth, justice sector transparency and accountability, penal code and legal access implementation; and Land management and usurpation in the mission area.
• Provides leadership, strategic vision and guide the Mission’s engagement with the Government, on judicial affairs and corrections issues; Formulates, develops and directs the implementation of the work programme; Develops, oversees and coordinates programmed activities, provides programmatic/substantive reviews of work, ensuring appropriate coordination and integration with MINUSMA’s general mandate and with all of its components (e.g. corrections, human rights, political affairs, civil affairs/governance, policy, gender, etc.) and all UN entities; In particular coordinate and integrate Police Advisory Unit’s (PAU) strategies, policy analyses and activities to maximize Rule of Law’s and PAU’s comparative advantages and synergies.
• Takes a leadership role in building the Rule of Law team, providing vision, including the identification of staff skill requirements and direct participation in the recruitment process.
• Coordinates justice sector activities, and facilitates coherent policies of international donors and implementers through leadership, vision, mediation and good offices, on the national and regional level, pursuant to MINUSMA’s mandate. Facilitates support and provides platforms for Government, Judicial and National Assembly coordination and policy coherence in the Justice Sector. Co-Chair with UNDP UNDAF Country Team Pillar IV, Justice and Rule of Law, and its integrated work plan and strategies.
• Supervises the preparation of legal and factual research and analysis, studies, presentations, briefs, policy documents and reports regarding legal, judicial and corrections issues in the mission area.
• Provides expert advice on political developments on the ground from a rule of law and justice accountability perspective and assists the DSRSG on various aspects of the work programme, and externally to the government, international and national partners, and other entities on policy and operations; recommends appropriate actions and generally facilitates joint efforts and coordination of activities related to legal and judicial reform initiatives.
• Ensures effective knowledge management and information sharing, including developing a culture of respect for, and inclusion of, local actors in all judicial and legal system initiatives.
• Participates in MINUSMA’s senior management group; represents the Mission and serves on various standing boards, steering committees and other bodies, as required.
• Oversees the programmatic/administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the work units, including the preparation of budgetary inputs, reports on budget/programme performance, evaluations of staff performance (PAS), and input for results-based budgeting.
• Represents the unit at international, regional or national meetings; provides programmatic/substantive expertise on issues, or holds programmatic/substantive and organizational discussions with representatives of other institutions.
• Leads and supervises the organization of meetings, seminars, etc. on substantive issues; manages the substantive preparation and organization of such meetings or seminars.
• Perform other related duties as required such as working very closely with UNDP and Government authorities to support ongoing national efforts in the areas of elaborating a national strategy to fight violent extremism as well as the elaboration of a justice sector development programing.
• Provides advice to senior management on policy and matters related to: Strategic planning and management of the Malian justice sector, including legal, judicial and corrections institutions; Legislative and regulatory drafting, enactment and revisions in the Ministry of Justice and National Assembly; Legal and regulatory impact upon business environment and economic growth, justice sector transparency and accountability, penal code and legal access implementation; and Land management and usurpation in the mission area.
• Provides leadership, strategic vision and guide the Mission’s engagement with the Government, on judicial affairs and corrections issues; Formulates, develops and directs the implementation of the work programme; Develops, oversees and coordinates programmed activities, provides programmatic/substantive reviews of work, ensuring appropriate coordination and integration with MINUSMA’s general mandate and with all of its components (e.g. corrections, human rights, political affairs, civil affairs/governance, policy, gender, etc.) and all UN entities; In particular coordinate and integrate Police Advisory Unit’s (PAU) strategies, policy analyses and activities to maximize Rule of Law’s and PAU’s comparative advantages and synergies.
• Takes a leadership role in building the Rule of Law team, providing vision, including the identification of staff skill requirements and direct participation in the recruitment process.
• Coordinates justice sector activities, and facilitates coherent policies of international donors and implementers through leadership, vision, mediation and good offices, on the national and regional level, pursuant to MINUSMA’s mandate. Facilitates support and provides platforms for Government, Judicial and National Assembly coordination and policy coherence in the Justice Sector. Co-Chair with UNDP UNDAF Country Team Pillar IV, Justice and Rule of Law, and its integrated work plan and strategies.
• Supervises the preparation of legal and factual research and analysis, studies, presentations, briefs, policy documents and reports regarding legal, judicial and corrections issues in the mission area.
• Provides expert advice on political developments on the ground from a rule of law and justice accountability perspective and assists the DSRSG on various aspects of the work programme, and externally to the government, international and national partners, and other entities on policy and operations; recommends appropriate actions and generally facilitates joint efforts and coordination of activities related to legal and judicial reform initiatives.
• Ensures effective knowledge management and information sharing, including developing a culture of respect for, and inclusion of, local actors in all judicial and legal system initiatives.
• Participates in MINUSMA’s senior management group; represents the Mission and serves on various standing boards, steering committees and other bodies, as required.
• Oversees the programmatic/administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the work units, including the preparation of budgetary inputs, reports on budget/programme performance, evaluations of staff performance (PAS), and input for results-based budgeting.
• Represents the unit at international, regional or national meetings; provides programmatic/substantive expertise on issues, or holds programmatic/substantive and organizational discussions with representatives of other institutions.
• Leads and supervises the organization of meetings, seminars, etc. on substantive issues; manages the substantive preparation and organization of such meetings or seminars.
• Perform other related duties as required such as working very closely with UNDP and Government authorities to support ongoing national efforts in the areas of elaborating a national strategy to fight violent extremism as well as the elaboration of a justice sector development programing.
Competencies
Professionalism: Knowledge of the strategic direction of a peacekeeping mission and its operations, and understanding of the political, social and economic environment and their impact on the implementation of a mission’s mandate. Extensive knowledge of judicial, legal and correction system issues, including knowledge of criminal law and relevant international human rights standards and their relationship and linkages to the broader developmental/post-conflict recovery framework and initiatives. Ability to elaborate a strategic policy document on justice sector development and transform mandate objectives into a results-oriented work programme and manage the same. Knowledge of judicial and legal systems’ issues, and knowledge of national justice organisation, structure and functioning, and of civil law, criminal law and procedure, civil/business/land/ laws, accountability and transparency laws and mechanisms, and relevant international justice, rule of law and criminal law and relevant international human rights standards. Ability to analyse and evaluate critical matters pertaining to a broad spectrum of judicial affairs issues/problems. Ability to use creative thinking, and use independent judgment and discretion in advising on and handling major policy, programme and other issues/problems. Strong negotiating skills and ability to influence others to reach agreement on difficult issues. Ability to work under extreme pressure, on occasion in a highly stressful environment (e.g. civil strife, natural disasters and human suffering). Knowledge of institutional mandates, policies and guidelines related to judicial affairs and seasoned knowledge of the institutions of the UN system. Detailed understanding of the dynamics of the justice sector in African countries. Shows pride in work and in achievements; Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations; Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
Integrity: Demonstrates the values of the United Nations in daily activities and behaviours; acts without consideration of personal gain; resists undue political pressure in decision-making; does not abuse power or authority; stands by decisions that are in the Organization’s interest, even if they are unpopular; takes prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behaviour.
Respect for Diversity: Works effectively with people from all backgrounds; treats all people with dignity and respect; treats men and women equally; shows respect for and understanding of diverse points of view and demonstrates this understanding in daily work and decision-making; examines own biases and behaviours to avoid stereotypical responses; does not discriminate against any individual or group.
Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; Tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
Planning and Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; Identifies priority activities and assignments; Adjusts priorities as required; Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; Uses time efficiently.
Integrity: Demonstrates the values of the United Nations in daily activities and behaviours; acts without consideration of personal gain; resists undue political pressure in decision-making; does not abuse power or authority; stands by decisions that are in the Organization’s interest, even if they are unpopular; takes prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behaviour.
Respect for Diversity: Works effectively with people from all backgrounds; treats all people with dignity and respect; treats men and women equally; shows respect for and understanding of diverse points of view and demonstrates this understanding in daily work and decision-making; examines own biases and behaviours to avoid stereotypical responses; does not discriminate against any individual or group.
Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; Tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
Planning and Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; Identifies priority activities and assignments; Adjusts priorities as required; Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; Uses time efficiently.
Managerial Competencies Managing Performance : Delegates the appropriate responsibility, accountability and decision-making authority; Makes sure that roles, responsibilities and reporting lines are clear to each staff member; Accurately judges the amount of time and resources needed to accomplish a task and matches task to skills; Monitors progress against milestones and deadlines; Regularly discusses performance and provides feedback and coaching to staff; Encourages risk-taking and supports creativity and initiative; Actively supports the development and career aspirations of staff; Appraises performance fairly.
Vision: Identifies strategic issues, opportunities and risks; clearly communicates links between the Organization’s strategy and the work unit’s goals; generates and communicates broad and compelling organizational direction, inspiring others to pursue that same direction; conveys enthusiasm about future possibilities.
Vision: Identifies strategic issues, opportunities and risks; clearly communicates links between the Organization’s strategy and the work unit’s goals; generates and communicates broad and compelling organizational direction, inspiring others to pursue that same direction; conveys enthusiasm about future possibilities.
Education
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent degree) in law is required. A first-level university degree in law in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience and bar qualification or equivalent may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Work Experience
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible work experience in the field of law, including ten years as a practicing lawyer, prosecutor, judge, legal academic, legal development consultant, or advisor in the field of justice and/or rule of law assistance, is required. Experience providing technical assistance for the development or reform of legal and judicial institutions in a transitional, developmental conflict or post-conflict setting, outside the applicant’s country of nationality is required. Experience in programme design, management, evaluation and budgeting is required. Experience in managing a multi-disciplinary team is required. Experience in transitional International humanitarian law and traditional justice mechanisms is desirable. Experience in civil non-criminal, business, land or tax law and in litigating such issues, is desirable. Experience in applying, advising and assessing national actors in civil law systems, is desirable, as well as experience in legal reform and code revision within those law systems. Experience working in a conflict or post-conflict setting is desirable. Experience in representing an international organisation or similar, through frequent face to face meetings with High Officials including Ministry of Justice, Chief Prosecutors, Bar Association President, and ranking members of Parliament/Legislature, is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English and French is required.
Assessment
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview. Core values and competencies will be assessed throughout the evaluation process.
HOW TO APPLY:
To apply, please click on link
United Nations Considerations
According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, including but not limited to, respect for international human rights and humanitarian law. Candidates may be subject to screening against these standards, including but not limited to, whether they have committed or are alleged to have committed criminal offences or violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law.
Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible. The United Nations places no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.
Applicants are urged to follow carefully all instructions available in the online recruitment platform, inspira. For more detailed guidance, applicants may refer to the At-a-Glance on "The Application Process" and the Instructional Manual for the Applicants, which can be accessed by clicking on “Manuals” hyper-link on the upper right side of the inspira account-holder homepage.
The screening and evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations including the Charter of the United Nations, resolutions of the General Assembly, the Staff Regulations and Rules, administrative issuances and guidelines. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications, including but not limited to, their education, work experience, and language skills, according to the instructions provided on inspira. Applicants will be disqualified from consideration if they do not demonstrate in their application that they meet the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations. Applicants are solely responsible for providing complete and accurate information at the time of application: no amendment, addition, deletion, revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to a reference-checking process to verify the information provided in the application.
Job openings advertised on the Careers Portal will be removed at midnight (New York time) on the deadline date.
Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible. The United Nations places no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.
Applicants are urged to follow carefully all instructions available in the online recruitment platform, inspira. For more detailed guidance, applicants may refer to the At-a-Glance on "The Application Process" and the Instructional Manual for the Applicants, which can be accessed by clicking on “Manuals” hyper-link on the upper right side of the inspira account-holder homepage.
The screening and evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations including the Charter of the United Nations, resolutions of the General Assembly, the Staff Regulations and Rules, administrative issuances and guidelines. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications, including but not limited to, their education, work experience, and language skills, according to the instructions provided on inspira. Applicants will be disqualified from consideration if they do not demonstrate in their application that they meet the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations. Applicants are solely responsible for providing complete and accurate information at the time of application: no amendment, addition, deletion, revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to a reference-checking process to verify the information provided in the application.
Job openings advertised on the Careers Portal will be removed at midnight (New York time) on the deadline date.
No Fee
THE 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.