Legal Research Intern

Organizational context:
The International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) is based in Geneva, Switzerland, and operates within the Office of the Assistant Secretary General. This legal research internship supports the IIIM's mandate to assist in the investigation and prosecution of serious international crimes in Syria. The role contributes to the Mechanism's efforts by collecting and assessing publicly available information.

Job purpose:

This legal research internship aims to support the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) in its critical work related to international crimes in Syria. The intern will contribute to the Mechanism's efforts to aid international and national jurisdictions by collecting and assessing publicly available information. This role provides a valuable opportunity for the intern to develop essential legal, research, analytical, and drafting skills.

Furthermore, it offers firsthand experience in the operations of a United Nations international accountability mechanism, enhancing understanding of complex legal and political issues related to the Syrian situation and contributing to the pursuit of justice.

Conduct targeted open-source research in English and Arabic, analyzing findings and drafting summaries in English. Research and summarize political, economic, social, technological, and legal issues pertinent to the Syrian situation, providing input on documents. Perform legal research in English and Arabic, draft legal analyses, and assist in finalizing legal documents. Compile research and analysis into papers and presentations for the IIIM, detailing sources and methodologies.

Ensure timely and accurate completion of assigned tasks, meeting all deadlines. Maintain strict confidentiality of all accessed records and information. Work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team environment, demonstrating professionalism and respect for colleagues and stakeholders.

Applicants must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or higher) or be in the final year of a first university degree program (bachelor's degree or equivalent). A field of study closely related to law is required. Fluency in English and knowledge of Arabic are required; fluency in Arabic is an advantage. Good knowledge of standard software applications is desirable.

No professional work experience is required for this internship. However, applicants must be students in the final year of a university degree program (bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D.) or have completed such a program. A field of study closely related to law is essential.

Legal research, Open-source research, Contextual analysis, Drafting, Summarization, Analytical skills, Communication (English and Arabic), Teamwork, Professionalism, Confidentiality, Standard software applications (MS Word, Outlook, Teams).

Arabic