International Humanitarian Law and Protection of Civilians Advisor at ARK

What you'll be doing

• Lead in the design, implementation and monitoring of UNSCR 2719 and Compliance Framework assistance to the African Union (AU) vis-à-vis IHL, civilian protection and wider human security issues, in accordance with programmatic priorities defined by the ISF APSO programme framework.  
• Partner with the African Union’s Compliance Framework Team (within PSOD) to support the development and dissemination of operational doctrine and training curricula on IHL, IHRL, civilian protection, human security and other PSO compliance matters. This entails the provision of subject matter expertise, liaison functions and participation within working groups. 
• Develop curricula and methods of training delivery to regional PSO training institutions to build and embed the knowledge and understanding necessary to satisfy evolving PSO Compliance requirements. This entails the delivery of train-the-trainer training to appropriately selected national military instructors, followed up with a programme of instructor mentoring to ensure an enduring legacy. 
• Ensure complementarity with other HMG regional initiatives as they pertain to peace support operations in Africa. Notably, this will entail close cooperation with the Defence and African Union Sections of the British Embassy, Addis Ababa and the provision of technical expertise and support as required. 
• Act as a professional ambassador for BPST(A) and ARK at all times.

Requirements

• Legal expertise and in-depth knowledge of IHL principles, conventions, and protocols and the ability to apply these in the context of peace support operations.  
• Significant experience in practising international humanitarian law, including advising on legal matters in conflict zones and peace support operations.  
• Demonstrated field experience in peacekeeping operations or similar international peace operations, with a focus on applying humanitarian law in real-world scenarios.  
• Proficiency in developing and delivering training programs on IHL for military, police and civilian personnel, ensuring they understand and comply with legal standards during operations.  
• Strong advisory and analytical skills, needed to provide strategic guidance on legal and humanitarian issues, and the ability to analyse complex situations to other practical solutions. 
• Strong ethical judgement to address complex legal and humanitarian issues, combined with cultural sensitivity to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and local communities.