Investigation & Statement Taker 260 views

BACKGROUND

The Victims Reparations Commission was established under the Victims Reparations Act, 2023, as a statutory body mandated to implement reparations for victims of gross human rights violations and abuses committed between July 1994 and January 2017, as recognized by the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC). In accordance with Section 4 of the Act, the Commission is tasked with ensuring that reparations are victim-centered, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse harms suffered during The Gambia’s authoritarian past.

To fulfil this mandate effectively, the Commission recognizes the critical importance of investigations and statement collection to victim’s cases, in a manner that upholds their dignity and right to redress. The Investigator & Statement Taker will play a key role in operationalizing the Commission’s investigations framework by collecting all relevant information from victims to facilitate access to reparations, as envisaged under the Act.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Investigation & Statement Collection

• Conduct field and office-based interviews and statement-taking from victims and/or their representatives in accordance with ethical and trauma-sensitive protocols.
• Collect and verify supporting documents (e.g., TRRC transcripts, medical reports, police records, death certificates) to substantiate claims.
• Identify and document patterns of human rights violations in line with TRRC findings and RC criteria.

Verification & Assessment

• Cross-check victim information against TRRC data, previous investigations, and other databases.
• Collaborate with the RC’s database team to digitally record and archive statements and evidence in a secure, confidential manner.
• Assist the Compensation Committee, Rehabilitation Committee, Restitution and Committee Units in determining eligibility, types, and levels of reparations based on verified statements.

Victim Engagement & Protection

• Ensure that interactions with victims are conducted with respect, dignity, confidentiality, and informed consent.
• Provide immediate referral to psychosocial or legal support services if needed, in collaboration with the Victim Support Unit.
• Maintain regular communication with victims to clarify issues, manage expectations, and update them on the status of their claims.

Reporting & Documentation

• Produce clear and concise investigation reports and submit them for internal review and decision-making.
• Maintain up-to-date records of interviews and verification outcomes in line with data protection policies.
• Flag any fraudulent, duplicate, or ineligible claims for further scrutiny.

Coordination

• Liaise with victim-led organizations, civil society groups, and regional coordinators to facilitate inclusive access to reparations.
• Work with other departments (Admin, Finance, Victim Support) to ensure timely processing of cases.

DURATION OF THE WORK  

The duration of this contract is for 1 (one) year renewable.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

• A bachelor’s degree in law, Human Rights, Criminology, Political Science, Psychology, or related field. A postgraduate qualification is an asset.
• At least 3 years of experience in investigations, human rights fact finding and documentation, transitional justice, or a related field.
• Previous work with a truth commission, reparations body, or human rights institution is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of The Gambia’s political history, the TRRC findings, and the Victims Reparations Act is essential.

Key Competencies

• Strong interviewing and documentation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, especially with vulnerable populations.
• Fluency in English and at least one national language (e.g., Mandinka, Wolof, Fula).
• High ethical standards and respect for confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and in teams under time pressure.
• Sensitivity to issues of trauma, gender, disability, and marginalization

HOW AND DEADLINE TO APPLY

All interested applicants must submit the following documents:

Motivational Letter: A motivational letter (maximum two pages) highlighting relevant experience in this field.

Curriculum Vitae (CV): An up-to-date CV highlighting education, training, work history, and any other relevant information.

Two references: Names and contact details of persons who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications, character, and suitability for the position.

Paper applications must be sealed and labelled as “APPLICATION FOR POSITION OF INVESTIGATOR & STATEMENT TAKER” and submitted to the Reparations Commission at Kotu, Logix Building on OIC Highway.

Online applications may be sent to info@reparationsgm.com the subject title APPLICATION FOR POSITION OF INVESTIGATOR & STATEMENT TAKER. Documents must be consolidated into one PDF file and labeled with the applicant’s full name.

Application deadline is: 22 July, 2026.