Global: Legal consultancy: "Mapping statelessness in Belgium"
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has a mandate to work for the identification, prevention and reduction of statelessness worldwide as well as the protection of stateless persons. On the basis of this mandate, the UNHCR’s Regional Representation for Western Europe in Brussels plans to undertake an interdisciplinary research project covering the demographic, social and legal aspects of statelessness in Belgium. The goal is to provide an overview of the socio-demographic profile of stateless persons in Belgium and to examine the legal situation pertaining to such persons.
Legal consultancy: Call for Expressions of Interest
"Mapping statelessness in Belgium"
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has a mandate to work for the identification, prevention and reduction of statelessness worldwide as well as the protection of stateless persons.
On the basis of this mandate, the UNHCR’s Regional Representation for Western Europe in Brussels plans to undertake an interdisciplinary research project covering the demographic, social and legal aspects of statelessness in Belgium. The goal is to provide an overview of the socio-demographic profile of stateless persons in Belgium and to examine the legal situation pertaining to such persons.
The research will benefit from the guidance provided by an Expert Consultative Panel.
The final product of the research shall consist of a report providing an analysis of the statistical and demographic data gathered on statelessness as well as the main difficulties identified in national law and practice, with recommendations.
In this context, we welcome expressions of interest from persons corresponding to the profile described below for a consultancy position starting on 15 October 2010.
A legal consultant, for a 6-month position, with a possible extension of 3 months, with the following qualifications:
* an advanced degree in law, preferably with a specialization in international public or refugee law, and a strong academic record;
* relevant professional experience gained after obtaining the degree, preferably with UNHCR or other international organizations;
* excellent understanding of international and European instruments relating to statelessness;
* previous research on statelessness is an asset;
* professional fluency in English, French and Dutch;
* excellent drafting skills in English;
* proven research ability.
Responsibilities:
The legal consultant will be responsible, inter alia, for: conducting field and desk-based research (including analysis of applicable legislation, relevant case-law and decisions by the aliens’ office); where appropriate, contacting the courts, lawyers and individuals to gather relevant information on the law and practice in the determination of statelessness (including procedural aspects), the rights of stateless persons and the prevention of statelessness; and identifying necessary recommendations. The legal consultant will also be responsible for drafting, in close cooperation with a demographic consultant, the interim and final reports to be used by UNHCR in its work on issues relates to statelessness. The legal consultant shall ensure that participatory assessment methodologies and an age, gender and diversity mainstreaming (AGDM) approach are adopted throughout the research and reflected in the final report.
Expressions of interest from suitable candidates accompanied by a motivation letter, CV, and a writing sample in English (of no more than 15 pages) should be sent by email to Ms. Pamela Williams ([email protected]) as soon as possible and no later than midday on 23 September 2010.
The UNHCR is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce and encourages minorities, disadvantaged groups and women to apply.
Please send replies to Ms. Pamela Williams: [email][email protected]