Remote Volunteer Opportunity: Children’s Rights Officer – Legal Researcher at The International Social Service (ISS)
Location: Remote
Type: Volunteer (6 months)
Closing Date: 30 May 2025, 5 pm Geneva time
The International Social Service (ISS), a renowned international NGO working to protect families and children globally, is seeking a passionate Children’s Rights Officer – Legal Researcher for a volunteer position. Established in 1924, ISS operates in over 100 countries through a network of offices and partners, making a significant impact on child protection and family welfare. If you’re looking to make a difference in children’s rights, particularly in alternative care and adoption, this could be your opportunity to contribute to a cause that matters.
About the Role
As a Children’s Rights Officer – Legal Researcher, your role will focus on legal research, drafting articles, and contributing to key advocacy activities related to children’s rights in alternative care and adoption. Working remotely with a dynamic team, you’ll gain valuable experience in the child protection sector, supporting ISS in promoting international standards that safeguard children’s welfare worldwide.
Key Responsibilities
Your work will involve a mix of research, writing, and collaboration, including but not limited to:
- Legal Research and Drafting: You will conduct legal research and draft articles on children’s rights issues, particularly around alternative care, adoption, and child protection systems.
- Newsletter Contribution: You’ll contribute to a regular newsletter, sharing insights on children’s rights in alternative care and adoption.
- Country Reports: Draft country-specific reports on child protection systems, providing a comparative view of child welfare policies, particularly around adoption.
- Government Collaboration: Respond to technical queries from governmental entities, helping them implement international standards and improve child protection systems.
- Training & Conferences: Assist with the preparation of training materials, participate in conferences, and contribute to thematic research on children’s rights.
- Advocacy Work: Engage in advocacy at the international and regional levels, promoting the rights of children, especially those deprived of family care.
Who We’re Looking For
This position is ideal for someone with a deep commitment to children’s rights, a solid legal or social science background, and a passion for research. The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:
- Language Proficiency: You must be fluent in at least two of the following languages: English, French, or Spanish (C1 level). Ideally, you will be a French native speaker.
- Educational Background: A university degree in law, international children’s rights, or social sciences, with at least two years of professional experience in the field of children’s rights.
- Legal Research Skills: You should be able to conduct thorough legal research, particularly in the area of international human rights and child protection.
- Knowledge of International Legal Frameworks: Familiarity with key international human rights instruments, such as the 1993 Hague Convention, the 1996 Hague Convention, and the UN Guidelines on the Alternative Care of Children, is essential.
- Experience in Relevant Areas: Experience in fields such as child protection, alternative care, adoption, migration, and emerging areas like biotechnology (e.g., surrogacy) is highly desirable.
- NGO Experience: A background working with NGOs, UN Agencies, or other international organizations in related fields is an advantage.
- Government Collaboration: Experience working with government agencies and institutions is beneficial.
- Advocacy and Teamwork: Experience in advocacy and the ability to work well in a team, including remotely, is crucial.
Why Volunteer with ISS?
This role offers an exceptional opportunity to work within a respected international organization dedicated to children’s rights. You will gain hands-on experience in child protection systems, contribute to global advocacy efforts, and be part of a committed team working remotely toward impactful change.
The ISS is known for its inclusive environment, where volunteers are valued for their contributions and have the chance to grow professionally while making a tangible difference in children’s lives worldwide.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to make a positive impact on children’s rights, we encourage you to apply for this volunteer role. To apply, please send your CV and motivation letter to [email protected] by 30 May 2025 (5 pm Geneva time). Be sure to include “Application for Children’s Rights Officer – Legal Researcher” in the subject line.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of a global movement advocating for the protection of children’s rights. Apply today and help shape a better future for vulnerable children around the world.
