National Political and Reporting Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE has field operations in various countries, including North Macedonia, where it has been active for many years. The OSCE Mission to Skopje is the longest-serving field operation of the organization, focusing on issues such as social cohesion, fundamental rights, gender equality, rule of law, good governance, integrity, anti-corruption, criminal justice, and police reform. The organization operates in 57 participating states across Europe, Central Asia, and North America, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to its mission.

Job Overview:
The National Political and Reporting Officer position is situated within the Political Affairs and Communications Unit (PACU) of the OSCE Mission to Skopje. The primary purpose of this role is to support political monitoring and contribute to the analysis and reporting functions of the unit. The incumbent will be responsible for staying informed about key political developments and providing regular updates and advice to the unit Chief, as well as to the Deputy Head of Mission (DHoM) and the Head of Mission (HoM) when necessary. The core responsibilities include drafting and preparing political reporting outputs, such as weekly political overviews, Monthly Activity Reports (MARs), and other analytical products. This position requires a proactive approach to political analysis and reporting, ensuring that the OSCE's objectives and commitments are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including: monitoring and providing inputs on political developments relevant to the Mission’s mandate at both national and international levels; contributing to PACU’s political analysis and regular reporting, including inputs to Weekly Political Overviews (WPO), Monthly Activity Reports (MARs), thematic briefings, and other reporting products; supporting coordination with other programmatic units to gather relevant information and ensure coherence in political analysis and messaging; developing and maintaining working-level contacts with relevant interlocutors from state institutions, government representatives, political parties, political analysts, civil society organizations (CSOs), and international stakeholders; drafting and reviewing briefing materials, talking points, background notes, and speeches for senior Mission staff; organizing and participating in internal and external meetings, attending conferences and events, and preparing meeting notes as necessary; and performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess citizenship or permanent residence in the Republic of North Macedonia. A first-level university degree in political science, international relations, law, or a similar field is required. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in political affairs, preferably within state administration or international organizations. A sound knowledge of the socio-political environment, political structures, institutions, and current affairs in North Macedonia and the wider regional context is essential. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to interact effectively with political actors, government officials, civil society, and international stakeholders, as well as proven experience in political analysis, research, and reporting. Excellent drafting and analytical skills are necessary, along with the ability to produce high-quality written materials under tight deadlines. Candidates should also have the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse individuals while maintaining impartiality and objectivity.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree, which can be in political science, international relations, law, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of political affairs and the operational context of the OSCE in North Macedonia.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in political affairs. This experience should ideally be gained in state administration or international organizations, providing the candidate with a solid foundation in political analysis, reporting, and engagement with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and the local languages are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of more than one local language would be considered an advantage, as it would enhance the candidate's ability to interact with a broader range of stakeholders and facilitate communication within the diverse political landscape of North Macedonia.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time contracted role with a fixed-term status. The monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 2,337, subject to social security deductions. Social benefits include participation in Cigna Medical Insurance and the OSCE Provident Fund. Appointments are typically made at Step 1 of the applicable OSCE salary scale, with the possibility of an initial appointment at up to Step 3 in exceptional cases. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not reimburse expenses related to interviews, tests, visas, or relocation. Additionally, OSCE appointments are subject to medical clearance, and the mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.