The Centre for Human Rights (CHR), Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria, is an internationally recognised institution combining academic excellence and impactful activism to advance human rights, particularly in Africa. Through education, research and advocacy, to support the African Union’s infrastructure and improve the enjoyment of human rights on the continent.

The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) held its inaugural session in March 2004. With the PAP now marking 16 years of operation, the CHR is commissioning an evidence-based analytical study to assess (a) the way in which the PAP has executed its functions and exercised its powers; (b) the extent to which it has achieved its objectives; and (c) the factors that have supported and constrained it in its operations. In particular, the study examines how the PAP has helped close the ‘democratic deficit’ in AU governance, while exploring the AU’s attempts to convert PAP into a fully-fledged legislative institution for the African continent.

Project title

A critical analysis of the contributions by the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) to governance in the African Union (AU) from 2004-2020 

Output

A research paper of approximately 20 000 words, submitted by 30 September 2020.

Methodology

The study should be based on primary sources, including the AU’s founding documents, PAP resolutions, its budget and a range of semi-structured interviews with relevant PAP and the AU officials. For secondary sources, the study should rely on a broad analysis of the literature on the PAP and its impact on Africa. To evaluate the effectiveness of PAP’s resolutions, recommendations on broad AU policy, the proposed study will consider quantitative and qualitative factors.

Required qualifications and experience

Applicants must have the following qualifications and experience:

• An advanced university degree (masters or equivalent) in international human rights law, international relations, international development/ development studies, political science or a related field
• An in-depth understanding the African human rights system
• A proven record of research and publications in international human rights law, international relations, international development and related subject fields
• Strong analytical skills
• Excellent English speaking/writing skills
• Demonstrable experience of undertaking similar assignments

Desirable skills and experience

The following skills and experience will be an added advantage:

• Fluent knowledge of another AU language in addition to English
• Experience of working with the PAP, African Parliaments and Parliamentarians

How to apply

Interested applicants should submit the following documents to Bonolo.Makgale@up.ac.za by 29 June 2020, indicating “Researcher for PAP Study” in the subject of the email:

• Cover letter detailing the applicant’s suitability for the assignment, with reference to the required and desirable qualifications, skills and experience set out above, as well as current contact information, and two contactable referees on previous assignments
• A detailed CV
• A short writing sample (published or unpublished article or research paper)
• A technical proposal including a brief research plan setting out the main research questions, and methodology to be adopted.
• A financial proposal indicating the consultant’s proposed fee for the assignment.

Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.