Senior Professional in Human Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE (Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe) is a prominent international organization founded in 1975, dedicated to promoting peace, security, and stability in Europe and beyond. With a mission to foster cooperation among its 57 participating states, the OSCE operates in various fields including conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict rehabilitation. The organization employs thousands of staff members across multiple countries, focusing on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The OSCE Mission in Kosovo specifically aims to support the development of a multi-ethnic society and the protection of human rights in the region, reflecting the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion within its workforce.

Job Overview:
The position of Senior Professional in Human Rights within the OSCE Mission in Kosovo is a critical role that involves extensive engagement with community rights and policies. The successful candidate will be expected to develop methodologies for proactive monitoring of institutions in Kosovo, analyze findings, and ensure the effective application of international standards regarding community rights. This role requires a deep understanding of the political landscape in Kosovo, particularly concerning human rights and minority issues. The candidate will work closely with various stakeholders, including government institutions and civil society, to identify community-related issues and advise on policies aimed at improving institutional performance in respecting community rights. The position also entails drafting reports, implementing monitoring programs, and facilitating dialogue between different community representatives and local institutions. The overarching goal is to enhance public participation and ensure that community rights are upheld in Kosovo, contributing to the OSCE's mission of fostering a stable and inclusive society.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Professional in Human Rights will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and implementing methodologies for monitoring community rights; analyzing the implications of community-related issues and advising on departmental policies; following up on the implementation of recommendations and policy decisions; supporting monitoring programs throughout the OSCE Mission; planning and drafting reports related to community rights; advising institutions on community rights matters; establishing contacts with relevant stakeholders; maintaining up-to-date knowledge of community rights situations; facilitating dialogue between community representatives and local institutions; contributing to the development of long-term strategies for public participation; liaising with other international organizations; and performing additional duties as assigned by the Chief of Communities Section.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in law, human rights, political science, international relations, or a related field. They should have extensive knowledge of international human and minority rights standards, particularly in the context of Kosovo. The role requires strong analytical, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, as well as experience in drafting reports and developing research methodologies. Candidates should demonstrate cultural sensitivity and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups while maintaining impartiality and objectivity. Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of local languages is desirable.

Educational Background:
A first-level university degree in political sciences, international relations, public policy, law, or international human rights law is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks governing them, particularly in the context of Kosovo.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 6 years of relevant professional experience in human rights, community rights, or related fields. This experience should include work with human rights organizations, government institutions, or international bodies, particularly in areas related to minority rights and community engagement. Experience in project development and management, as well as policy advocacy, is highly valued.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the OSCE. Knowledge of a local language or a common lingua franca is considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a Senior Professional role within the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, with a contract type of International Secondment. The job is full-time, and the successful candidate will be expected to start as soon as possible. The OSCE emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. It is important to note that nationals or permanent residents of Kosovo are not eligible to apply. The OSCE retains the right to re-advertise the vacancy or modify the job description as necessary. Additionally, candidates should be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance and that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.