About the Organisation
The Green Connection (GC) is an environmental and social justice organization, striving for eco justice, community empowerment and resource advocacy. GC is running a ‘Who Stole Our Oceans’ campaign, which aims to protect the ocean through opposing offshore oil and gas developments and informing coastal communities about the negative impacts of Operation Phakisa (specifically offshore oil and gas projects). The government’s drive on oil and gas appears to raise similar concerns.
About the Job
The Legal Advisor (Outreach) at The Green Connection will provide legal support for environmental and social justice initiatives, particularly the "Who Stole Our Oceans" campaign opposing offshore oil and gas developments. The role involves legal research, policy analysis, community engagement, and strategic litigation support. Responsibilities include reviewing legal documents, advising on advocacy efforts, assisting communities with Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), and monitoring international climate litigation trends.
Key Responsibilities
Participate in the various workstreams providing legal input to outreach, advocacy and other programmes to assist with their operations.
Legal Review and Analysis: Conduct legal reviews of media publications, internal newsletters, and external documents.
Participate in interviews, webinars, and meetings to build and maintain relationships and capacity build civil society.
Document Review and Drafting: Assist in reviewing and drafting legal documents.
Compiling comments: Submit comments and appeals within the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.
Compile and submit comments on Bills and Policies as relevant to the Green Connection campaigns. Community Engagement: Provide legal empowerment to communities and assist them with EIA processes as well as helping them participate in parliamentary public participation processes.
International Legal Developments: Monitor international legal developments, particularly in climate change litigation, and prepare internal briefings.
Relationship Management: Maintain and build relationships with partner organisations and external lawyers.
Assist external legal teams with management of the court case process.
Strategic Planning: Contribute to the development and implementation of the organization's legal strategy.
Fieldwork: Travel to communities across South Africa to provide support and conduct research.
Requirements
LLB Degree
Minimum of four years’ work experience in the public interest/NGO sector
Knowledge of court processes and experience in litigation management
Understanding of issues related to mining, human rights, environmental justice, energy, and governance
Strong research, writing, and analytical skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Willingness to travel extensively within South Africa
Proficiency in relevant legal software and databases
The following criteria are desirable:
Admission as an Attorney
Master’s Degree
Experience in strategic litigation
Own transport
Proficiency in Afrikaans and/or isiXhosa
To apply
To apply, email your application by 21st February 2025 to callum@actionappointments.co.za
