Overview
The National Legal Specialist - IAS will provide technical guidance to strengthen Sri Lanka’s national institutional and legal biosecurity frameworks for the prevention and management of Invasive Alien Species (IAS). The role aims to assist the Government of Sri Lanka in establishing a robust, coherent, and operational IAS legal system.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct a comprehensive review of existing national legislation and institutional mandates related to the control of IAS.
- Identify legal gaps, overlaps, and areas requiring updates, harmonization, or new instruments.
- Support the development or updating of legal instruments and institutional frameworks for IAS control.
- Support the development of standard operating procedures and protocols for IAS prevention, monitoring, and rapid response.
- Liaise with government agencies in strengthening institutional coordination and governance for IAS management.
- Organize and facilitate workshops and consultation meetings for stakeholders.
- Provide technical support on the implementation of IAS risk assessments and border biosecurity measures.
- Support the development of guidance documents, manuals, and templates for IAS legislation.
- Promote awareness on legislative compliance and the importance of IAS control.
Required Experience
- Minimum of seven years of experience in reviewing legal frameworks including drafting and reviewing environment-related legislation.
- Strong knowledge in national and international legal instruments related to biodiversity/invasive alien species (IAS) and biosecurity systems.
- Proven expertise in reviewing, drafting or harmonizing IAS-related legislation, and institutional mandates.
- Experience in legislative review and drafting.
- Experience in strengthening biodiversity governance frameworks and coordinating effectively with government agencies and stakeholders.
- Familiarity with the UN System and /or development sector will be considered an asset.
Qualifications
• Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Environmental Law. Specialization in Biodiversity law, Biosecurity law, or a related field desirable.
