To apply, please submit your CV and Cover letter (Max 1 page) to info@huquqyat.org by the 27th of October 2024. ONLY applications received directly to the email address provided will be considered.CONTEXTHuquqyat is a women-led organisation of self-identifying women legal practitioners working on accountability processes for Syria. Huquqyat aims to serve as a platform in which Syrian women lawyers and legal practitioners can obtain training, network and develop and lead their own cases and investigations. By bringing legal practitioners and lawyers working on Syria together and strengthening their technical and legal skills, Huquqyat will increase the incidence of Syrian women* taking up leading positions in efforts for accountability, both in the case of those currently taking place in European countries and in any other future avenues for accountability that may become available.By promoting strategic litigation as a way to address socio-legal issues related to war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Syria, Huquqyat will intentionally investigate cases with significant gender or class issues that are not being prioritised by NGOs and prosecutorial authorities currently leading justice and accountability efforts. For examples, Huquqyat s investigation on the siege in the South of Damascus during the period between end of 2013 and 2014 shows that including a gender-sensitive approach to the investigation from the offset can provide important insights on the specific impacts of crimes on women, even in cases in which they are not understood to be direct victims. These correlations are often not at the centre of investigation, leaving these impacts and women excluded from the possibility of justice and accountability.We are hiring a Junior Legal Investigator to contribute to the development of an investigation concerning war crimes and crimes against humanity perpetrated during the siege and starvation of civilians in the southern region of Damascus.RESPONSABILITIESWitnesses Engagement (70%)Community Forums:In collaboration with the Senior Lead Investigator, prepare a preliminary brief of findings and draft investigative methodology and strategy for internal discussion.Conduct background research into community-driven accountability processes Support on the coordination of the community forums, including, but not limited to, the preparation of surveys, identification of target communities, organisation of roundtables and moderate virtual consultations to ascertain the needs, preferences, complaints, and expectations of the affected community.Witness identification, contact, and interviews:Identify potential witnesses for the investigation.Establish and maintain contact with witnesses and key connectors.Conduct screening of witnesses before the interviewing process.Using the PEACE Model, conduct witness interviews to gather relevant informationEnsure informed consent is obtained from witnesses.Keep the contact sheet updated with witness information.Ensure confidentiality and security measures are in place throughout witnesses engagementConduct risk and threat assessments and situational analyses for witnesses and victims engaged in the investigation.Follow up with witnesses and key-connectors involved in witness-related activities.Written Statements and analysis:Transcribe witness interviews and statements.Review and edit interview transcripts for language and administrative accuracy.Conduct redaction of sensitive information in witness testimonies.Carry out an analysis of the interview findings, in coordination with the Senior Lead Investigator and Case Management coordinator.Legal Analysis (15%)Research, Analysis and Drafting:Support in conducting open-source and background research related to the investigation.Support in documenting analysis findings, observations, and recommendations in written reports or documentation.Participate in submitting a final complaint to the respective prosecution authorities, IIIM and UN mechanisms.Partners and Stakeholder Engagement (15%):Maintain regular contact with communities and and key connectors on the progress of the investigationMaintain regular communication with project partners as agreed with the Senior Lead InvestigatorAssist in drafting Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreements with partners in Arabic and EnglishIdentify, engage and manage relationships with a diverse range of investigative sources, including intermediary NGOs and relevant legal bodiesPERSON SPECIFICATIONEducation Background:A bachelor s degree in law, human rights, international relations, or a related field is required.Certification in conducting interviews using the PEACE model would be advantageous.Years of Expertise:A minimum of 3 years of experience in legal practice, investigative work, or human rights advocacy is required. Proficiency in conducting interviews using the PEACE model and redacting sensitive information in interview materials is necessary.Language Proficiency:Fluency in English and Arabic (both written and verbal) is required.Proficiency in conducting interviews, transcribing statements, and drafting legaldocuments in both languages is necessary.Other requirements:Have the possibility to travel to EU countries and non-EU countries to meet with witnesses and conduct interviews.Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.Excellent communication skills, including the ability to conduct interviews and draft legal documents with clarity and precision.Familiarity with digital security measures and risk assessment systems to protect sensitive information.Ability to work independently and as part of a team, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.Proficiency in conducting open-source intelligence (OSINT) and background research related to investigations.Commitment to feminist principles and promoting gender equality in the workplace.











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