Rule of Law Monitoring Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina was established to support the country in fostering a sustainable and stable security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security environment. The mission plays a crucial role in strengthening governance and promoting democratic society. It focuses on political and educational reform, as well as the protection of human rights for all citizens in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The organization operates in various regions within the country, working closely with local authorities and institutions to ensure the rule of law and human rights are upheld.

Job Overview:
The Rule of Law Monitoring Assistant will be primarily responsible for monitoring and reporting on criminal proceedings and the functionality of the justice sector in their designated area. This role involves working closely with the National Legal Officer to coordinate programmatic work and ensure compliance with established policies and guidelines. The assistant will prepare regular reports on monitored cases, draft spot reports as necessary, and maintain communication with local justice sector officials. The position requires a strong understanding of legal and human rights issues, as well as the ability to work under pressure in a challenging environment. The successful candidate will contribute to the OSCE's mission of promoting justice and human rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Monitor cases before specified courts and prosecutor’s offices, as well as the human rights situation within other justice sector institutions, following established policies and guidelines.
• Draft reports on proceedings and institutions monitored, as well as spot reports on priority issues as they arise.
• Maintain regular contacts with local officials within the justice system and local bar associations, reporting on relevant developments and trends.
• Follow legislative, institutional, and policy developments related to human rights and the rule of law.
• Provide feedback and advice to local justice sector actors based on OSCE findings and reports, as well as international human rights standards.
• Coordinate workload and case selection with National Legal Officers, Legal Advisers within the Rule of Law section, and other trial monitors as necessary.
• Draft spot reports as deemed necessary by the monitor or upon request from their supervisor or Head Office.
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, with additional coursework in law being desirable. A first-level university degree in law may substitute for one year of work experience, while an advanced degree in law may substitute for two years of work experience. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in the legal and/or human rights field is required. Candidates should possess a working knowledge of European and/or international human rights conventions, and demonstrate a willingness and experience in working in challenging environments. Flexibility, patience, and the ability to work under pressure and time constraints are essential. Candidates must be computer literate with practical experience using Microsoft applications, and possess professional fluency in English with excellent communication skills in both oral and written forms, as well as proficiency in local languages. A valid driving license is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a completed secondary education. Additional coursework in law is desirable, and candidates with a first-level university degree in law may be considered as substitutes for work experience. An advanced level degree in law may also be considered as a substitute for additional years of work experience, indicating that the organization values formal education in the legal field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in the legal and/or human rights field. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to engage with legal processes and human rights issues effectively. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in environments that may be challenging, showcasing their adaptability and resilience in the face of pressure and time constraints.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent communication skills required in both oral and written forms. Proficiency in local languages is also necessary, as the role involves regular interaction with local officials and justice sector actors. This bilingual requirement ensures effective communication and understanding of the local context in which the monitoring will take place.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to citizens and permanent residents of Bosnia and Herzegovina only. The remuneration package includes a monthly salary of 2,362.17 BAM, subject to social security deductions. Social benefits will include participation in the Cigna health insurance scheme 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. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years, and candidates must be aware that OSCE appointments are subject to medical clearance. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.