Legal Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is a principal institution of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) that focuses on the human dimension of security. Established to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, ODIHR operates across the OSCE area, engaging in activities such as election observation, democratic development, and tolerance promotion. The organization is committed to addressing a wide range of security-related concerns, including arms control, human trafficking, and counter-terrorism. The OSCE comprises 57 participating States, all of which enjoy equal status, and decisions are made by consensus. ODIHR's mission is to assist participating States in fulfilling their commitments to human rights and democratic governance, ensuring that these principles are upheld in practice.

Job Overview:
The Legal Advisor position at ODIHR involves providing comprehensive legal advice and analysis to the Director and Deputy Directors on various legal matters related to the organization's operations. The incumbent will be responsible for interpreting ODIHR's mandate and addressing issues concerning its functions, structure, and activities. This role requires a deep understanding of international law, particularly as it pertains to the legal status and privileges of ODIHR and its officials. The Legal Advisor will also engage in research and analysis of legal precedents, advise on disciplinary procedures, and assist in the negotiation and interpretation of legal instruments relevant to the OSCE's work. The position demands strong analytical skills, discretion, and the ability to navigate complex legal issues while maintaining effective communication with diverse stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Advisor will undertake a variety of duties, including:

• Providing legal advice and analysis on the interpretation of ODIHR's mandate and its operational framework.
• Advising on international law issues affecting ODIHR's legal status and relationships with governments and international organizations.
• Conducting research on legal precedents relevant to ODIHR's functions.
• Offering legal guidance on disciplinary procedures and personnel-related matters in accordance with OSCE regulations.
• Reviewing and interpreting the OSCE's regulatory framework and providing legal advice on its application.
• Assisting in the negotiation and drafting of legal documents, including agreements and memoranda of understanding.
• Coordinating legal consultations within ODIHR and liaising with the OSCE Secretariat Legal Services.
• Engaging in discussions on legal matters with local institutions and international organizations.
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the Director.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in law and have a minimum of six years of relevant professional experience. Experience in legal practice, such as roles held by judges, prosecutors, or lawyers, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of international law and have experience in drafting and reviewing legislation and legal texts. The ability to analyze complex legal issues and consider their policy implications is essential. Candidates must also exhibit discretion and sound judgment in resolving sensitive matters, along with proficiency in Microsoft applications. Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English are mandatory, and knowledge of another OSCE language is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and the ability to integrate a gender perspective into their work.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree in law, which is essential for understanding the legal frameworks and principles that govern ODIHR's operations. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for the legal analysis and advisory functions expected of the Legal Advisor.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least six years of progressively responsible professional experience in legal practice. This experience should encompass a diverse range of legal issues, particularly those relevant to international law and human rights. Candidates with experience in drafting and reviewing legal documents, as well as those who have worked in roles that require a deep understanding of legal frameworks, will be particularly well-suited for this position.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and spoken communication skills being essential for the role. Knowledge of another OSCE language is desirable and would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders within the organization and its member states.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international secondment, and candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. The contract is fixed-term, with a full-time schedule, and the maximum period of service in this post is limited to 10 years. The OSCE emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The organization is committed to the highest ethical standards and requires that all officials conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status. 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.