Exciting Career Opportunity: Senior Rule of Law Specialist Wanted at UNITAR

February 6, 2025

4 minutes read

Exciting Career Opportunity: Programme Senior Specialist – Rule of Law (P4) at UNITAR

Are you an expert in international law, peacebuilding, and governance? Do you have a passion for strengthening the rule of law and advancing sustainable development goals? If so, this is an exciting opportunity to join the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) as a Programme Senior Specialist – Rule of Law (P4) in the Peacekeeping Training Programme Unit (PTPU) in Bonn.

Exciting Career Opportunity: Senior Rule of Law Specialist Wanted at UNITAR

About the Role

This position is crucial in shaping and implementing projects that promote the rule of law, ensuring justice, security, and human rights. The specialist will contribute to UNITAR’s mission by developing training programs, advising partner organizations, and engaging with international stakeholders. This is a fixed-term regular staff position with an initial one-year contract (renewable).

Key Responsibilities

1. Developing & Implementing Rule of Law Projects

Lead the strategy for rule of law initiatives in alignment with UNITAR’s Strategic Framework and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16.
Assess regional legal and governance challenges, focusing on inclusive justice systems, equal access to justice, crime prevention, governance, and human rights.
Conduct in-depth needs assessments and recommend training and institutional capacity-building solutions.
Develop concept notes, project documents, and budget proposals for rule of law initiatives.
Oversee project implementation, monitoring, and reporting, ensuring alignment with UNITAR policies.
Identify and resolve project challenges and provide effective recommendations.
Design and deliver workshops, training sessions, and seminars on rule-of-law topics.
Lead and mentor team members within the rule-of-law portfolio.
Establish partnerships with governments, UN agencies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

2. Advisory Role in Rule of Law and Institutional Strengthening

Provide strategic guidance to partner institutions on improving governance structures.
Lead complex field missions to engage with international legal professionals and government officials.
Design customized training programs and coaching initiatives for stakeholders.
Identify new opportunities to expand PTPU’s educational and training offerings.

3. Building Strong Networks & Outreach

Collaborate with UN bodies, local organizations, donors, and international partners.
Actively participate in strategic planning for UNITAR’s Peacekeeping Training Programme Unit (PTPU).
Enhance the visibility of UNITAR’s actions in rule of law and peacekeeping training.

What You Will Achieve

Strengthen UNITAR’s reputation in the field of peacekeeping and governance.
Secure funding for at least one new major project in the rule-of-law sector.
Develop impactful learning solutions that support justice sector professionals and policymakers.
Promote sustainable governance and legal reforms in line with SDG 16.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Education:

A Master’s degree in international relations, law, political science, peace and security, or a related field.
Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree and 9+ years of experience will be considered.

Experience:

At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in international affairs, project management, peacebuilding, and governance.
Experience working with UN agencies, international organizations, or diplomatic entities is highly desirable.
Strong background in developing, managing, and evaluating training programs.

Languages:

Fluency in English is required.
French language skills are highly desirable.
Additional knowledge of another UN language (e.g., Spanish, Arabic, or Russian) is a plus.

Key Competencies for Success

1. Professionalism

Deep knowledge of peace and security frameworks and project management in rule of law initiatives.
Ability to handle complex, high-pressure assignments efficiently.

2. Planning & Organizing

Strong skills in strategic planning, project coordination, and risk management.
Ability to allocate resources efficiently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

3. Accountability

Takes ownership of tasks, ensures quality results, and adheres to UNITAR’s regulations.

4. Communication

Excellent verbal and written skills, capable of delivering engaging reports, training materials, and presentations.

5. Teamwork

Works effectively with international teams and values diverse perspectives.

6. Client Orientation

Understands and responds to the needs of UNITAR’s stakeholders, including governments, legal institutions, and UN agencies.

7. Creativity & Problem-Solving

Proactively seeks innovative solutions for challenges in justice, governance, and security sectors.

Why Join UNITAR?

1. Be Part of a Global Impact

UNITAR plays a crucial role in advancing peace, security, and the rule of law worldwide. By joining us, you will contribute to meaningful policy changes, governance reforms, and legal advancements.

2. Work in an International Environment

Collaborate with global experts, government officials, and top legal professionals to build stronger governance systems.

3. Career Growth & Professional Development

UNITAR is committed to employee growth, providing opportunities for skill enhancement, networking, and career progression.

Application & Selection Process

How to Apply:

Submit your application and motivation letter before 02 March 2025.
Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Special Considerations:

UNITAR is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity employment.
Women, individuals from minority groups, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Integrity & Ethical Standards:

UNITAR upholds strict ethical standards, ensuring all employees meet the highest level of integrity, competence, and professionalism.
Candidates with human rights violations, sexual exploitation offenses, or financial misconduct will not be considered.

Final Thoughts

This is a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of global peacebuilding, justice reform, and rule-of-law initiatives. If you have the passion, experience, and expertise, we encourage you to apply and make a difference in the world.

Top Keywords for This Position

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