Legal Adviser (Land Rights), Bougainville (3182)

Closing Date: 17 Jun 2013

Interview: July 12 & 13 (applicants will be required for both days)

Pre-departure Briefing: 25-28 Sept

Expected in Field: November 2013

Position Term: 12 months

Support the development of a legislative framework that protects customary land rights in Bougainville.

VSA is seeking a qualified and suitably experienced lawyer to support the development of a robust legislative framework for land and natural resources, and ensure customary landowners in Bougainville are knowledgeable about the rights and opportunities in relation to their land.  The Legal Adviser will help ensure the legislative framework supports both landowner control over land use for economic and social development, and the equitable allocation of alienated state land.  The volunteer will also provide support and advice to ensure the Division of Lands and Physical Planning has the capacity to effectively contribute to any government special project that involves land issues.

Two options for building financial self-reliance in Bougainville are mining and cash crop development.   However, many of the grievances leading to the Bougainville crisis related to the lack of recognition of landowner rights in the exploitation of the resources at Panguna Mine.  If either of these options is to succeed, the land rights of all parties needs to be secure, and customary rights protected.  Customary land leases are already happening but disputes over land ownership, rights and boundaries are common and can undermine business confidence.  It is well recognised that land is going to be critical to the future sustainable economic development and long-term peace and security of Bougainville.

This is a one year assignment and basic, furnished accommodation will be provided.

Apply for this assignment

1: Download and read the assignment description for this assignment.

2: Download and complete a VSA Application form

3: Submit your completed VSA Application form and current CV to:

EMAIL
volunteer@vsa.org.nz

POST
Volunteer Recruitment Unit, VSA
PO Box 12246, Thorndon, Wellington 6144