Legal research support in Trinidad and Tobago on asylum and refugee law
Organizational Context
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is the principal UN entity for human rights, mandated to promote and protect human rights globally. It works with governments, provides a forum for addressing human rights challenges, and leads research, education, and advocacy. This role supports an OHCHR initiative in Trinidad and Tobago focused on protecting the rights of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
Job Purpose
The selected candidate will provide crucial legal research support to an organization in Trinidad and Tobago dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights, with a specific focus on migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees. This role involves monitoring national legal and policy frameworks, contributing to advocacy efforts, and enhancing access to protection for displaced and stateless individuals. The primary task will be research and data gathering, contributing to the organization's efforts to advance human rights and ensure protection for vulnerable populations within the region.
Responsibilities
The Online Volunteer will conduct legal research on refugee and migrant protection within Trinidad and Tobago's legal framework, examining asylum seeker treatment, access to legal status, and the rights of stateless persons. This includes desk reviews of national and regional legislation, international human rights obligations, and relevant guidance. The volunteer will compile legal briefs and summaries, incorporating case law, human rights reports, and regional jurisprudence. Additionally, the role may involve supporting the preparation of legal documents and informational materials for outreach, advocacy, and case support purposes, contributing to the organization's human rights mission.
Work Experience
Required experience includes education or practical experience in legal research, asylum and migration law and policy, or a related field. Familiarity with refugee or humanitarian policy and legislative frameworks is essential. The role also requires professional integrity, commitment to humanitarian principles, excellent drafting and analytical skills, and experience in data analysis.
Skills
Key skills include legal research, analysis of asylum and migration law and policy, and understanding of refugee/humanitarian frameworks. Proficiency in drafting legal documents and data analysis is necessary. The candidate must demonstrate professional integrity and a commitment to core humanitarian principles. Fluency in English is required, with working knowledge of Spanish, French, or Dutch being desirable.