Principal Adviser on ODIHR's Programmatic Strategic Planning

Principal Adviser on ODIHR's Programmatic Strategic Planning

Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)

December 18, 2025February 1, 2026WarsawPoland
Job Description
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), which was established to promote human rights, democratic development, and the rule of law across its member states. ODIHR operates in various fields including election observation, human rights, and tolerance and non-discrimination. The organization is committed to a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses political, military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The OSCE has 57 participating States and operates on a consensus basis, ensuring that all member states have equal status. The ODIHR is based in Warsaw, Poland, and plays a crucial role in assisting participating States in implementing their commitments in the human dimension.

Job Overview:
The Principal Adviser on ODIHR's Programmatic Strategic Planning will be responsible for providing strategic advice and support to the First director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of ODIHR. This role involves identifying and promoting best practices within ODIHR's operations, contributing to strategic planning initiatives, and researching funding opportunities. The incumbent will work closely with various departments and units within ODIHR to ensure effective programmatic planning and execution. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying new fundraising opportunities and building strategic partnerships with international organizations and NGOs. The adviser will also be tasked with maintaining comprehensive information on ODIHR's fundraising history and advising on the potential impacts of programmatic activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties including advising on ODIHR's fundraising efforts, researching extra-budgetary funding opportunities, and identifying strategic partnerships for joint initiatives. They will maintain overall information on ODIHR's fundraising history, provide regular briefings and reports to the First Deputy Director, and contribute to ODIHR's strategic planning through research and policy advice. Additionally, the incumbent will research good practices in ODIHR's programmatic work and perform other related duties as assigned. This role requires close cooperation with the Project Co-ordination Unit and programmatic departments to ensure alignment with ODIHR's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in law, political or social science, or a related field, preferably with a specialization in international relations or public policy. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience will also be accepted. Furthermore, candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in diplomacy or international relations, particularly in human rights and democracy assistance. Experience in project management, especially with donor-funded projects in complex political contexts, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and possess the ability to work effectively in diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a second-level university degree in a relevant field such as law, political science, or social science. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of relevant experience. The preferred specialization is in international relations or public policy, which aligns with the strategic objectives of ODIHR.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in the fields of diplomacy or international relations, with a focus on human rights and democracy assistance. Candidates with a first-level university degree must have at least seven years of relevant experience. Experience in managing projects, particularly those funded by donors in sensitive political environments, is highly desirable. A thorough understanding of the OSCE region and its specific challenges in human rights and democratization is also necessary.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory. Proficiency in Russian and/or other OSCE languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to ODIHR's mission effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international secondment and is open only to nationals of participating States. The contract type is fixed-term, and the position is full-time. The maximum period of service in this post is 10 years, reflecting the OSCE's commitment to staff rotation. 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. The target start date for this position is as soon as possible, and candidates are encouraged to apply well in advance of the deadline to ensure timely processing of their applications.
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