Junior Legal Advocacy Officer (Internship/ Volunteer Position)

The Junior Legal Advocacy Officer will join Yazda legal advocacy department and work directly under the supervision of the Legal Advocacy Director and the Legal Advocacy Officer to perform the following tasks:

• Support Yazda’s legal work to pursue criminal accountability for crimes against Yazidis before international and domestic courts as well as other transitional justice mechanisms (reparation, truth-telling, etc.)
• Analyze survivor and witness testimonies as well as crimes scene data and prepare reports
• Carry out field and theory-based legal research; draft legal documents, including position papers, reports, and legal briefs
• Support the Legal Advocacy Director to carry out Yazda legal advocacy strategy in Iraq and globally
• Provide support to enhance domestic and international advocacy efforts that work to improve the conditions of Yazidis
• Assist the Legal Advocacy Director in discussions with partners and donors

• Advanced degree in law, preferably specialization International Criminal Law
• At least one year of prior professional experience as a practicing lawyer or in a position where legal advice, counselling and assistance was frequently provided to vulnerable clients
• Strong knowledge in International Law (Criminal law, Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law)
• Previous experience working internationally, in a post-conflict area is strongly preferred. The ability to handle an emotionally demanding post and work with a traumatized population and the ability to work and solve problems effectively in a challenging location
• Excellent drafting and oral communication skills in English. Knowledge in Kurdish Kurmanji and/or Arabic is an asset
• Strong interpersonal, intercultural and communication skills
• Demonstrated analytical skills and report writing experience required
• Willingness to relocate in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for at least 6 months