NATIONAL JUDICIAL REFORM OFFICER ; INDEPENDENT JUDICIAL COMMISSION;

Duty Station:                                      Banja Luka

Contract Type:                                  National (Two positions)

THE INDEPENDENT JUDICIAL COMMISSION

The Independent Judicial Commission (IJC) is the lead agency for the co-ordination of judicial reform in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the development of judicial reform strategy. It provides opinions and advice to and works closely with Ministries of Justice, Judges, Prosecutors, other relevant national authorities and the international community regarding the process of judicial reform and the promotion of the rule of law and serves as a focal point for international assistance to judicial reform initiatives. It is currently spearheading a vigorous reform programme to enhance the independence and professionalism of the judiciary by restructuring the court system, the selection of judges and prosecutors and the institution of a High Judicial Council responsible for the appointment and discipline of judges and prosecutors. 

PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF POSITION

Under the supervision of the Head of the Restructuring Department, the Judicial Reform Officers work within the Restructuring Department to develop and implement plans for streamlining and restructuring the BiH court system. The Judicial Reform Officers also work on any other related judicial reform projects that fall within the aegis of the Department. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To provide general advice to the IJC in devising and implementing a plan to restructure the BiH court system and other related judicial reform projects.

To work with local authorities especially the courts and the Ministries of Justice on all matters related to these issues.

To prepare legal opinions on issues such as the interpretation of local legislation for internal and external use

To draft legislation as required and to comment on draft legislation

To maintain close observation of the BiH judicial and legal systems including new developments

To liase with other international organisations

To undertake other duties as required.

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

·        Law degree

·        A minimum of five years professional experience required in a practical legal setting, preferably as a judge, prosecutor, counsel, court administrator or within a Ministry of Justice

·        Previous experience in development work in countries in transition desirable, especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina or other countries of the former SFRY.

·        Experience with or knowledge of European systems and norms preferred.

·        Ability to operate both within the framework of a team and independently.

·        Ability to work and draft legal documents in English

·        Mature judgement and flexibility

·        Computer literacy

·        Must be able and willing to travel within BiH

Any personnel with the above qualifications should provide (in English) a CV with one-page cover letter including references to:

Personnel Department

OHR Sarajevo

Emerika Bluma 1, 71000 Sarajevo

Fax: +387 (0) 33 283 771

 E-mail: application@ohr.int

Please quote Reference number: 2002/174 and 2002/175

Closing date for applications: 6 August 2002

Only short listed candidates will be contacted and advised of exact dates of duration of contracts.