About Centre for Social Justice:

The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) is a prominent Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) dedicated to socio-legal causes. Established in 1993, CSJ focuses on championing the rights of marginalized and vulnerable individuals, primarily in the context of access to justice. Inspired by Freirean philosophy, CSJ operates in over eight states across India, employing legal strategies to drive human rights initiatives through an intimate connection with grassroots realities.

CSJ’s mission extends beyond empowering vulnerable communities by enforcing socio-economic and civil-political rights. They also adopt a restorative approach to justice, addressing the societal structures that perpetuate discrimination and violence. This involves reshaping social relations to create a long-term shift in intra and inter-community power dynamics.

Central to CSJ’s endeavors are its institutional contributions to legal reform and research. They bridge grassroots activism, legal expertise, and policy-making, advocating for a wide range of issues related to the rights of women, Dalits, Adivasis, minorities, and other socially vulnerable groups.

CSJ’s success is attributed to its relentless efforts, particularly through a network of law centers, to train and empower community lawyers and paralegals. These centers, staffed by lawyers, paralegals, and researchers, offer litigation support, community outreach, and serve as hubs for the dissemination of a holistic Human Rights concept that envisions peace and justice beyond conventional rights frameworks.

About the Opportunity:

The Young Professionals Program for Legal Empowerment (YPPLE), initiated by CSJ in 2014, aims to equip young legal professionals with the skills and knowledge to become catalysts for change. It provides them with the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of how legal empowerment at the grassroots level plays a pivotal role in driving social change.

As YPPLE enters its tenth year, CSJ has placed approximately 40 young researchers in its field areas. These individuals engage with the realities of grassroots communities, experiencing significant personal and professional growth. The program enables participants to pursue their unique interests, whether it’s a specific area of law, a particular role, or a social cause close to their hearts.

Many YPPLEs continue their association with CSJ beyond the program’s duration, actively contributing to CSJ’s mission of creating a just and equitable society.

The program places a group of young legal professionals in a field setting where CSJ implements its interventions. Each participant is expected to spend a substantial amount of time in the field, with the remainder dedicated to research, writing, reflection, input, and capacity-building.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Conduct field-based research on legal and policy issues to inform interventions and create policy documents.
  • Coordinate training and capacity-building programs and develop training materials.
  • Collaborate and coordinate programs with stakeholders, including engaging with various government authorities.
  • Contribute to the legal work of the organization.
  • Organize events to initiate public debate on relevant issues.
  • Bring innovative approaches and perspectives to the organization’s ongoing work.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The program is open to young law graduates and legal professionals who aspire to pursue a career in human rights.
  • Willingness to engage with field realities, work in challenging conditions, and travel extensively is essential.
  • Candidates must demonstrate a strong drive, motivation, and commitment to working for social change.

Stipend:

  • Selected candidates will receive a stipend of Rs. 33,000 per month. The program is designed as a two-year engagement, and at the end of the mandatory one-year commitment, candidates have the option to continue working with CSJ or opt out.

Selection Process:

Candidates interested in the program must submit an online application with the following attachments:

  • A Statement of Purpose (SOP) detailing motivations, reasons for applying, areas of interest, and expectations from the organization (up to 1000 words).
  • An updated CV.
  • Writing samples.

Shortlisted candidates will undergo a short interview, followed by a two-day selection process at CSJ’s office in Ahmedabad. Final candidates will be invited for a one-month probation period, and their performance during this period will determine their selection for the program.

How to Apply?

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  • Application Deadline: September 30, 2023.

Contact Details:

Jobs, Law