The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) is an independent, non-partisan, non-government organisation working for the practical realisation of human rights across the Commonwealth, with a focus on access to justice and access to information. Further information can be accessed at (www.humanrightsinitiative.org).

CHRI is looking for Research Associates for its Prison Reforms Programme. The programme aims to strengthen oversight mechanisms, improve prison conditions, reform prison management, enhance accountability and foster an attitude of cooperation between the various agencies of the criminal justice system in place of the prevailing indifference and discrimination.The position, is part of a project to identify and assist asylum seekers/refugees confined in prisons, shelter home or observation homes in West Bengal and North Eastern (NE) states of India with particular focus on Assam, Tripura and Manipur.

Job Description

Responsibilities include conducting visits and interviews of asylum seekers/refugees detained across various prisons, detention centres, observation homes and shelter homes in West Bengal and North Eastern (NE) states of India with particular focus on Assam, Tripura, Manipur and West Bengal; maintain accurate and up-to date records and data related to all work on individual cases; assist in conducting coordination meetings and consultations with criminal justice functionaries; prepare effective and targeted advocacy material; and other related work as necessary.

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Law, Criminology, Refugee Studies, Migration, Social Work or related fields.
• Ability to communicate in English.
• Ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative.
• Comfortable with travelling alone on work.
• Experience and/or knowledge in the area of criminal justice (focus on police and prison).
• Understanding of and commitment to human rights.
• Good ability to organise and finalise tasks within deadlines.
• Competent research and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to work with a high degree of initiative and creativity under minimal guidance.
• Excellent computer skills, including word processing, email, social media and internet research.
• Enthusiastic and willing to learn.
• Strong sense of commitment to work.

Desirable qualifications:

• Ability to communicate in Bengali, Assamese, Manipuri or Meitei.
• Experience of working on rights of refugees.
• Experience of working in prisons, shelter homes or observation homes.

Type of Appointment and duration:

Short-term consultancy contract (from 1^st December 2019 to 31^st August 2020) with a 2-month probation period.

Remuneration will be commensurate with knowledge and experience levels.

Location:

The candidate should preferably be based in West Bengal and be willing to travel to the other locations, as required.

Interested candidates should apply with:
• a current CV;
• a cover letter;
• two writing samples (no longer than four pages); and
• contact details of two referees

Applications should be sent to vinu@humanrightsinitiative.org by 22^nd October 2019. Incomplete applications will not be considered.