Amnesty International Justice in Africa Fellowship scheme seeks to enhance diversity of representation in the field of international justice by offering an opportunity to young African professionals (early to mid-career practitioners and scholars) based in Africa to work on international justice issues and mechanisms. Selected fellows will benefit from knowledge, skills and experience transfer, practical exposure to international justice spaces and forums, and the opportunity to engage and network with a variety of relevant actors and stakeholders in the international justice movement. Selected fellows will participate in research, legal analysis, policy discourse and campaigning projects relating to international justice.
Amnesty International is a globally recognized non-governmental organization (NGO) that is deeply committed to promoting human rights and advocating for justice, freedom, and dignity for all individuals around the world. Established in 1961 by British lawyer Peter Benenson, Amnesty International operates independently and maintains no affiliation with any government or political ideology. Its fundamental mission revolves around investigating and exposing human rights abuses, raising public awareness and support, and advocating for change through various channels such as campaigning, advocacy, and grassroots activism.
One of the most prominent features of Amnesty International is its unwavering dedication to defending a wide spectrum of human rights. These rights encompass freedom of expression, gender equality, protection against torture and ill-treatment, the right to a fair trial, and a host of other fundamental liberties. The organization is deeply committed to upholding the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, serving as a steadfast guardian of these rights across the globe.
Central to Amnesty International’s operations is its rigorous research and documentation efforts. Through in-depth investigations, the organization meticulously examines cases of human rights abuses, collecting evidence and publishing comprehensive reports. This rigorous documentation serves to shed light on egregious human rights violations and fosters a climate of accountability, where those responsible for such violations can be held answerable for their actions.
A hallmark of Amnesty International is its impactful campaigns that mobilize individuals to take concrete action in support of human rights causes. By leveraging mechanisms such as petitions, letter-writing campaigns, protests, and online activism, the organization empowers individuals to voice their concerns, speak out against injustice, and rally for tangible change.
The Urgent Action Network stands as a critical component of Amnesty International, springing into action to address pressing and time-sensitive human rights situations. Through this network, members receive prompt alerts about individuals at risk and are encouraged to send appeals to relevant authorities, thereby preventing harm and safeguarding the interests of human rights defenders.
Amnesty International goes beyond activism, also engaging in advocacy and lobbying efforts on a global scale. By collaborating with governments, international bodies, and institutions, the organization strives to influence policy changes that align with human rights principles. Its well-researched reports and impactful public awareness campaigns catalyze discussions on human rights issues and exert pressure for meaningful actions.
As part of its mission to cultivate a culture of respect for human rights, Amnesty International also focuses on education and awareness. This entails creating and disseminating educational materials, organizing workshops, and hosting events that serve to enlighten people about human rights and their vital significance.
With a widespread presence across numerous countries, Amnesty International operates through a network of national and regional offices. This global footprint enables the organization to effectively address both local and global human rights concerns, tailoring its efforts to the specific contexts in which it operates.
Crucially, Amnesty International maintains its financial independence by relying on individual donations and support from its network of backers. This funding model ensures the organization’s impartiality and integrity, enabling it to boldly speak out against human rights violations and advocate for change without the fear of external interference.
Throughout its history, Amnesty International’s impactful work has contributed to tangible positive changes across various human rights issues. This includes securing the release of political prisoners, advocating for the abolishment of the death penalty, and advancing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, among other noteworthy achievements. As a steadfast force in the fight for justice, freedom, and human rights, Amnesty International remains dedicated to its mission of championing the rights and dignity of all individuals worldwide.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist with research activities on accountability for crimes under international law in Africa and elsewhere through desk research and drafting.
- Assist with monitoring and analysing international and regional developments on international justice issues.
- Assist with developing advocacy positions and strategies on identified priorities relating to international justice.
- Participate and contribute to relevant internal and external policy discussions pertaining to international justice issues and mechanisms.
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Good knowledge of and experience in the application of international law, including international human rights law, humanitarian law and international criminal law is essential.
- Ability to analyze accurately legal issues and apply legal reasoning in pursuit of developing a strategic response.
- Ability to gather and process human rights-related information/related.
- Ability to write clearly and concisely (without the need for significant editorial revision) and proof-read research, campaign and advocacy materials.
Benefits Of The Amnesty International Justice In Africa Fellowship Scheme
- Benefits include 37 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays and grace days), pension scheme, employee assistance programme, life assurance and many more benefits designed to suit your own personal lifestyle.
- All of this, in a professional, engaging environment.
Application Deadline: 17 August 2023
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