INVESTIGATOR (TEMPORARY JOB OPENING)

Organizational Context

The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Afghanistan (IIMA), established by Human Rights Council Resolution 60/2, is mandated to collect, preserve, and analyze evidence of international crimes and serious violations of international law committed in Afghanistan. The role is based in Vienna and reports to the Chief of the Collection, Analysis and Sharing Section.

Job Purpose

The Investigator's purpose is to contribute to the IIMA's mandate by participating in and supervising investigations into serious breaches of international humanitarian law, including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and sexual and gender-based violence. This involves preparing investigation plans, obtaining survivor statements, coordinating evidence gathering with various stakeholders, and managing security risks. The role also includes representing the IIMA in external forums, preserving physical evidence, collaborating with national law enforcement, and coordinating witness attendance and protection measures. The Investigator will also perform administrative functions and assist with forensic projects as needed.

Responsibilities

The Investigator will conduct investigations into serious breaches of international humanitarian law, including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, rape, and sexual and gender-based violence. This includes supervising other investigators during field missions and overseeing the preparation of investigation plans, reports, and files. The role involves obtaining signed statements from survivors, reviewing and analyzing documents, and coordinating with government, UN, and civil society actors for evidence gathering. The Investigator will also manage security risks associated with evidence collection, represent the IIMA in briefings, and ensure the collection, recording, preservation, and chain of custody of physical evidence. Collaboration with national prosecutors and law enforcement, coordination of witness attendance and protection, and administrative functions are also key responsibilities.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in law enforcement or criminal investigations involving serious breaches of international humanitarian law is required. Experience with an international or multilateral public institution and in gathering evidence and interviewing suspects/witnesses is also mandatory. Experience in Central Asia, particularly related to Afghanistan, sexual/gender-based crimes, justice for children, and high-tech environments is desirable.

Skills

Proven ability to conduct complex criminal investigations and build cases. Skill in analyzing activities related to war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and sexual violence. Proficiency in research methodologies, including digital sources. Ability to work in a high-tech environment. Strong evidence gathering and interviewing skills. Excellent professionalism, planning, organizing, and teamwork capabilities.

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