Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is the principal institution of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) responsible for the human dimension. Established to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms, ODIHR operates in 57 participating States, providing assistance and guidance to ensure compliance with international human rights standards. The organization focuses on various aspects of human rights, including the rights of individuals and groups, and works to strengthen democratic institutions and processes across its member states. ODIHR's Human Rights Department plays a crucial role in supporting OSCE participating States in fulfilling their obligations to uphold human rights, and it is dedicated to fostering an environment conducive to the work of human rights defenders and civil society organizations.

Job Overview:
The Consultant will play a vital role in supporting the implementation of the project titled 'Increasing effectiveness, strengthening the enabling environment for human rights defenders.' This project aims to enhance the capacity of human rights defenders (HRDs), including national human rights institutions (NHRIs) and journalists, to operate effectively and securely. The Consultant will work closely with the Project Officer and the Deputy Head of the Human Rights Department to facilitate various project activities, including organizing events, capacity-building initiatives, and monitoring efforts. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying relevant developments in the field of human rights and ensuring that project objectives are met through effective planning and execution of activities. The Consultant will also be responsible for producing essential documentation, such as concept notes and briefing materials, to support project-related activities and stakeholder engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will be tasked with a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: monitoring developments related to project activities; providing support for the organization of events and capacity-building activities; producing concept notes, talking points, and briefing materials; developing Terms of Reference (ToRs) and Special Service Agreements (SSAs) for experts and trainers; contributing to the planning of activities, including drafting and updating project work plans and reports; maintaining updated contact lists of key stakeholders; and participating in project reporting, including updating logical framework documents and drafting donor reports. The Consultant will ensure that all deliverables are completed in a timely manner and meet the quality standards expected by the ODIHR.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in human rights law, international affairs, social or political sciences, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in the human rights sector is required, preferably within the OSCE region. Candidates should have professional experience in human rights-related desk research and analysis, as well as experience working with civil society partners and international stakeholders. Knowledge of international human rights standards and OSCE commitments is essential, along with familiarity with the situation of human rights defenders and civil society organizations in the OSCE region. Experience in project management, particularly with donor-funded projects, and in organizing training or awareness-raising initiatives is also necessary. Proficiency in Microsoft applications and excellent written and spoken communication skills in English are mandatory, while working knowledge of other OSCE languages, especially Russian, is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level university degree in a relevant field such as human rights law, international affairs, social sciences, or political sciences. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of human rights issues and the legal frameworks that govern them, as well as for engaging effectively with various stakeholders in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in the human rights sector. This experience should ideally include work within the OSCE region, providing candidates with a nuanced understanding of the specific challenges and dynamics faced by human rights defenders and civil society organizations in this context. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of engaging with civil society partners and international stakeholders, as well as experience in project management and implementation of training initiatives.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, with excellent written and spoken communication skills required. Additionally, a working knowledge of other OSCE languages, particularly Russian, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role, given the diverse linguistic landscape of the OSCE region.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and is classified at the Professional job level. The Consultant will be part of a roster and will be engaged on a contractual basis. The remuneration package will be determined based on the selected consultant's qualifications and experience, as well as the specific tasks and deliverables associated with the position. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. It is important to note that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.