Legal Specialist (Development Law)

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN dedicated to achieving food security for all and leading international efforts to defeat hunger. Working in over 130 countries, FAO supports the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The Development Law Branch of the FAO Legal Office (LEGN) assists members with national and regional legislation review, legal research, and dissemination of legal information through FAOLEX. This call aims to build a roster of legal experts for various assignments.

Job Purpose

This Call for Expression of Interest (EOI) aims to identify qualified legal specialists and experts with comprehensive knowledge in diverse areas of food and agriculture legislation. The objective is to establish a roster of consultants and/or PSA subscribers who can be engaged for assignments ranging from a few days to eleven months. These roles will support FAO's mandate in providing legal assistance, conducting research, and developing legal frameworks to promote sustainable agrifood systems globally. The selected individuals will contribute to FAO's mission of achieving food security and improving livelihoods through robust legal expertise.

Responsibilities

Incumbents will provide crucial support for legal research, analysis, and drafting, alongside capacity development initiatives. Key responsibilities include assisting in the implementation of development law projects by collaborating with national and international consultants, liaising with stakeholders, and contributing to participatory legal drafting processes. This involves drafting national and regional legislation, legal opinions, and analyses, as well as supporting the drafting, analysis, and negotiation of international instruments. Furthermore, consultants will conduct research on food and agriculture law, author papers and studies, and develop legal solutions. They will also contribute to designing and implementing training and outreach activities, organizing events like trainings and webinars, and supporting communication efforts related to the Development Law Branch's work.

Work Experience

A minimum of one year of demonstrated relevant practical experience, including research, is required. Experience in legal drafting and implementing national projects is considered an asset. Familiarity with the work of international organizations, regional entities, and national governments is also beneficial.

Skills

Essential skills include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Technical skills encompass legal drafting, project implementation, and familiarity with food and agriculture legislation (e.g., veterinary, phytosanitary, food law, food loss and waste, environmental law, climate change). Knowledge of international organizations' work is important. Proficiency in standard office software (MS Office) is required. Additional desirable skills include project management, strategic planning, and leadership capabilities.

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