• The Programme officer will be required to work with the team and advocate prison reform by undertaking monitoring and research on prisons with a particular focus on pre-trial detention, human rights issues, discrimination and bias, collecting, compiling and maintaining data on policing, accountable governance and human rights issues.
• Writing and publishing research and advocacy documents, project documentation and donor reporting and assisting with organising and delivering workshops will be a major focus of the programme. The position will require the successful applicant to represent CHRI locally, regionally and nationally.
• The applicant must be able to assist in developing and maintaining effective networks with a diverse range of people, including prison officers, lawyers, government, civil society and the media. The candidate must also be in a position to assist with management activities, such as team strategy and planning.

Qualifications:

• The candidate must be committed to civil liberties and should have four years professional work experience, with strong academic qualifications in law, social sciences or other related fields.
• Candidates must possess exceptional and excellent research, writing and editing skills, as well as outstanding oral communication abilities in English and Hindi is a must.
•  Working knowledge of additional languages will definitely be an added advantage. Knowledge or work around human rights, prisons or justice sector reform is preferred.
•  Sound knowledge of criminal law and procedure will be an added advantage.
• Excellent computer skills, including word processing, email and internet are essential.

The position is suitable for an energetic, enthusiastic and creative person interested in being based at a dynamic organisation working at the cutting edge of prison issues. Candidate must be adaptable and able to work effectively as a member of team in a multicultural environment.

CHRI is based in New Delhi, India, and has offices in London, UK and Accra, Ghana. The role is based in CHRIs New Delhi office. CHRI is an independent, non-partisan, non-government organisation working for the practical realisation of human rights across the Commonwealth. Further information about CHRI and its prison reforms programme can be accessed at CHRIs website (www.humanrightsinitiative.org).

Type of Appointment and duration: 1-2 year fixed term contract with a 6 months probation period.

Salary: Salary package is negotiable, but is based on local wages.

Applications close on 1 August 2009 and should be emailed to Swati Mehta at CHRI (swati@humanrightsinitiative.org). Applications must include a motivation letter, resume, a recent writing sample and contact details of at least two referees. Incomplete applications will not be considered.