Project Assistant

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 founded in 1975, with a mission to ensure peace, security, and stability in Europe. The OSCE operates in 57 participating States across Europe, Central Asia, and North America, focusing on a comprehensive approach to security that includes politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is a principal institution of the OSCE responsible for promoting human rights and democratic development. ODIHR is active in election observation, human rights advocacy, and the rule of law, working to assist participating States in fulfilling their obligations to protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to diversity and inclusion within its ranks, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the project titled 'Increasing effectiveness, strengthening the enabling environment for human rights defenders.' This project aims to create a safe and enabling environment for human rights defenders (HRDs), including national human rights institutions (NHRIs) and journalists, to conduct their work effectively and securely. The Project Assistant will work under the supervision of the Project Officer and closely with Human Rights Advisers, assisting in various project activities, including monitoring political developments, drafting project-related documents, and organizing events. The role requires a commitment to the project's duration until December 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. The Project Assistant will also be involved in capacity-building activities, helping HRDs utilize new communication strategies and technologies to advocate for human rights effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including: Monitoring relevant political and other developments related to project activities; Assisting the project team in drafting concept notes, talking points, and briefing materials; Preparing Terms of Reference (ToRs) and Special Service Agreements (SSA) for experts and trainers; Planning project activities, including drafting and updating work plans and project reports; Establishing and updating contact details with key stakeholders; Researching and collecting information to inform the project logframe; Organizing project monitoring meetings; Managing project-related information; Supporting the organization of events, including compiling materials and correspondence; Coordinating travel arrangements for speakers and project staff; Assisting in needs assessment visits and project-related missions; Compiling evaluation forms and assisting with monitoring and evaluation activities; Preparing minutes of meetings and reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in human rights law, international affairs, social or political sciences, or a related field. A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in human rights, preferably within the OSCE region, is required. Experience working with civil society partners and international stakeholders in human rights is essential, along with familiarity with international human rights standards and OSCE commitments. Candidates should have experience in project management, particularly with donor-funded projects, and in organizing capacity-building events related to human rights. Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English are mandatory, and knowledge of other OSCE languages, especially Russian, is desirable. Computer literacy and the ability to work with diverse groups are also required, along with demonstrated gender awareness and sensitivity.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree, which can be in human rights law, international affairs, social or political sciences, or another relevant field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience. This experience should ideally include work on human rights issues, particularly in the OSCE region. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with civil society organizations and international stakeholders, as well as experience in project management and the implementation of training or awareness-raising initiatives.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and spoken communication skills. Knowledge of other OSCE languages, particularly Russian, is considered an asset and is desirable for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is an extra-budgetary role with an expected duration until December 31, 2026, subject to the availability of funds. The monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 4,400, depending on post adjustment and family status, and is exempt from taxation in Poland. Social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and contributions to the OSCE Provident Fund. The OSCE follows a non-career organizational model, with a maximum service period of seven years in this post. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process, and appointments are subject to medical clearance.