About Terre des hommes Foundation (Tdh)

Terre des hommes (Tdh) is Switzerland’s leading child rights and relief organization with over 50 years of experience defending children’s rights without discrimination. Tdh’s work spans more than 30 countries, protecting children from exploitation and violence, improving the health of children and their mothers, and providing essential psychological and material support during humanitarian crises.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Access to Justice (A2J) Project Manager, the Legal Assistance Officer will lead and coordinate legal support for survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Trafficking in Persons (TIP) as part of the “Restoring Dignity and Protection …” project in Benue State, funded by France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (CDCS). The role combines direct legal assistance, community awareness, and coordination with local authorities and partners.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Legal Support

Provide first-line legal assistance to GBV/TIP survivors, including intake, confidential listening, legal advice, application/complaint drafting, and accompaniment to institutions.

Support referrals to judicial, medical, social, or community services.

Maintain clear and confidential case documentation and follow-up.

Community Legal Education and Awareness

Develop and deliver legal literacy activities (radio shows, community discussions, outreach) on rights, duties, justice processes, women’s and children’s rights, and criminal law.

Produce legal information materials such as guides and brochures adapted to local contexts.

Coordination and Partnership

Support linkage between field activities, regional authorities, courts, bar associations, women’s and children’s services, and other stakeholders.

Participate in team meetings, reporting, and administrative tasks.

Service Quality and Compliance

Ensure high-quality delivery of services aligned with Tdh standards and internal policies.

Follow Tdh’s Child Safeguarding, Code of Conduct, Anti-Fraud, and other risk management policies.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

Professional Competencies

Strong knowledge of legal frameworks related to family law, criminal law, women’s rights, and children’s rights.

Experience in legal counselling, mediation, community awareness, or legal education.

Excellent written and spoken English; proficiency in at least one local language (preferably Tiv).

Strong research, analysis, case management, and communication skills.

Personal Competencies

Ethical integrity, confidentiality, empathy, patience, cultural sensitivity, and respect for beneficiaries.

Ability to manage time, prioritize tasks, and work under pressure.

Capacity to build trust with communities, partners, and authorities.

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Law or a related discipline.

Minimum of 3 years’ relevant experience in legal assistance or a similar role, especially related to GBV.

Deep understanding of local laws, customs, and social norms in the project area.

Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Commitment to uphold all Tdh standards and policies, including child safeguarding and protection.

Equal Opportunity & Code of Conduct

Tdh promotes a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. All candidates are treated with respect, regardless of background. Employees must adhere strictly to the organization’s Code of Conduct and risk management policies.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should apply through Tdh’s official career portal: Apply via Terre des hommes careers website https://www.tdh.org/en
.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.