Consultant in Legal Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) is a crucial component of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which provides centralized legal advice to the OSCE Secretary General, Chair, and all executive structures. The OLA is responsible for addressing a wide range of legal issues that impact the OSCE, including regulatory frameworks, administrative appeals, host country arrangements, and complex contract negotiations. The OSCE itself was established to promote peace, security, and cooperation in Europe, and it operates in multiple countries across the continent, engaging in various diplomatic and legal activities to fulfill its mission.

Job Overview:
The Consultant in Legal Affairs will play a vital role in supporting the Office of Legal Affairs by providing legal advice on a variety of issues that pertain to the OSCE's operations. This position requires a deep understanding of public law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and the ability to navigate complex legal frameworks. The consultant will be expected to deliver comprehensive legal opinions, assist in the negotiation of legal instruments, and provide guidance on the interpretation of the OSCE's regulatory framework. The role is temporary and contingent on the availability of funds, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic legal environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Offering legal advice on the legal status and privileges of the OSCE and its officials;
• Assisting in the negotiation and interpretation of legal documents such as agreements and memoranda;
• Advising on representation and procedures within OSCE decision-making bodies;
• Providing legal counsel on commercial contracts, including leases and intellectual property rights;
• Reviewing and interpreting the OSCE's regulatory framework, including Staff Regulations and Financial Regulations;
• Handling internal justice cases and examining claims involving the Organization;
• Conducting extensive legal research and preparing legal opinions and reports. The consultant's performance will be evaluated by the Head of OLA, ensuring that deliverables are met in a timely manner.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law, with a specialization in public international law. A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience, preferably in an international context, is required. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to make sound decisions, and excellent written and oral communication abilities. Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with additional knowledge of Russian and/or German considered advantageous. Proficiency in standard software applications, particularly Microsoft Office, is also necessary. Furthermore, candidates should exhibit gender awareness and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in law, specifically with a focus on public international law. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of legal issues that the OSCE encounters in its operations.

Experience:
A minimum of one year of directly-related professional experience is required for this position. This experience should ideally be at the international level, providing the candidate with a solid foundation in the legal challenges faced by international organizations.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory for this role, as it is the primary language of communication within the OSCE. Additionally, a working knowledge of Russian and/or German would be considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is issued under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and does not have a specific grade level. The job type is classified as a consultant role, with an unlimited number of posts available. The position is based at the OSCE Secretariat in Vienna. The issue date for this job posting is August 4, 2025, and the closing date for applications is August 18, 202

• The OSCE emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages candidates from various backgrounds to apply. It is important to note that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.