Legal Officer

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), established in 1951, is a UN-related agency focused on promoting humane and orderly migration. It collaborates with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The Office of Legal Affairs supports the Organization's activities by ensuring compliance with its legal framework, including its Constitution, regulations, and international law.

Job Purpose

The Legal Officer will work within the General and Administrative Law Division of the Office of Legal Affairs, reporting to the Head of the Division and the Senior Legal Officer. This role is crucial for providing comprehensive legal advice, recommendations, and services concerning IOM's legal status, constitution, functions, rules, and activities. A primary focus will be on human resources legal issues, ensuring that the Organization's operations and personnel matters are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The position contributes to maintaining legal integrity and operational compliance across IOM.

Responsibilities

The Legal Officer is responsible for providing legal counsel on privileges and immunities, particularly concerning claims filed by staff or contractors before national authorities, and issues related to personnel detention or security system affiliation. This includes drafting submissions for administrative and tribunal proceedings, such as the Joint Administrative Review Board (JARB) and the International Labour Organization Administrative Tribunal (ILOAT). The role involves reviewing investigation reports from the Office of the Internal Oversight (OIO), assessing the need for disciplinary action, and preparing legal advice for senior officials on administrative law matters. This includes recommendations for settlements, disciplinary measures, and implementation of decisions following internal appeal processes. The Legal Officer will also attend relevant meetings and conferences.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required for candidates with a Master's degree (seven years for those with a University degree). This experience must include at least four years in international administrative law, with demonstrated expertise in handling staff misconduct cases, disciplinary proceedings, and drafting legal pleadings for internal justice systems and the ILOAT.

Skills

Excellent writing and research skills. Knowledge of public international law, specifically ILOAT jurisprudence and international administrative law.

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