The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) is a worldwide organization of judges and lawyers united in affirming international law and rule of law principles that advance human rights. The Associate Legal Adviser (100%) for the Africa Programme supports the ICJ's objectives in promoting human rights, justice systems, the rule of law, and access to justice across the region. Working under the direct supervision of the Senior Legal Adviser, the post-holder helps implement ICJ's strategic initiatives through research, advocacy, and project management, with a particular focus on projects in Lesotho relating to accountability for corruption and the protection of whistleblowers, gender equality, women's economic empowerment and gender-based violence, and the promotion of SOGIE-SC rights.
Key responsibilities: lead the ICJ's work in Lesotho and support the Africa Programme; draft reports, briefing papers, opinion pieces and web stories; plan and organize workshops, seminars and trainings for lawyers, judges and other stakeholders; conduct legal research and monitor legal and political developments; engage in advocacy and communications, including press releases and public statements; assist with legal interventions, including briefs and background research for cases before national and regional courts and treaty bodies; build and maintain relationships with civil society, government, donors and other stakeholders; support ICJ Network engagement; assist with budget management, fundraising and donor reporting.
Requirements: a degree in law (an advanced degree in international human rights or humanitarian law is highly desirable); a minimum of three years' progressive international experience in legal research, human rights advocacy or related activities (internships and traineeships count 50%); high-level legal writing and editing skills in English; knowledge of Sesotho is desirable; experience working in Lesotho is desirable; knowledge of Microsoft Office; strong analytical, organizational and interpersonal skills. The role is open to candidates with an existing right to work in South Africa or Lesotho, based in Maseru or South Africa (preferably Johannesburg or Bloemfontein), with frequent travel to Lesotho. Target start date: January 2027.
Closing date: 2026-10-26
HOW TO APPLY:
Send a CV (maximum 2 pages, including home address and phone number) and a cover letter (maximum 1 page) to recruitment@icj.org by 26 October 2026, midnight CET. Include "Associate Legal Adviser Africa" in the email subject line. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.