Adviser on Gender Equality

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 democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law, ODIHR operates across the OSCE area, engaging in activities such as election observation and supporting democratic development. The organization is committed to fostering equal participation in political and public life, particularly focusing on gender equality. ODIHR's Democratization Department works with participating States to implement OSCE commitments related to democratic institutions and political participation, ensuring that all 57 participating States enjoy equal status in decision-making processes. The OSCE's comprehensive approach to security encompasses various aspects, including human rights and gender equality, reflecting its commitment to addressing a wide range of security-related concerns.

Job Overview:
The Adviser on Gender Equality plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality and women's participation in political and public life within the framework of the OSCE's mandate. This position involves providing expert advice, designing and implementing programs, and evaluating their effectiveness in advancing gender equality. The Adviser will guide ODIHR's assistance to participating States, ensuring that national gender equality strategies and action plans are effectively implemented and assessed. The role requires a deep understanding of the political landscape and the ability to navigate complex institutional frameworks to foster inclusive democratic institutions. The Adviser will also engage in policy analysis, monitoring public policies and legislation that impact women's rights, and will be responsible for preparing analytical reports and recommendations to inform decision-making processes. Additionally, the Adviser will represent ODIHR at various international forums, advocating for gender equality and collaborating with diverse stakeholders to maximize the impact of ODIHR's initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Adviser on Gender Equality will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Designing and delivering gender equality programs by identifying priorities, developing methodologies, managing implementation, and evaluating results to promote equal participation of women and men in political and public life.
• Conducting policy analysis by monitoring and analyzing public policy, legislation, and state practices affecting women's rights and gender equality, and preparing analytical reports and recommendations.
• Leading knowledge and advocacy efforts at OSCE and other international forums by preparing substantive inputs, agendas, and background materials, and delivering presentations at mandated meetings.
• Coordinating across OSCE and with partners to ensure systematic collaboration with ODIHR departments, the OSCE Secretariat, and external organizations.
• Representing ODIHR and providing expert advice to participating States and stakeholders, responding to requests for information and technical assistance.
• Managing resources and delivery by overseeing consultant recruitment, organizing workshops and publications, and ensuring compliance with OSCE/ODIHR rules.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in gender studies, social and political science, law, sociology, public administration, or related fields. Additionally, a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in gender equality and women's participation in political life is required, with at least five years of experience for those holding a second-level university degree. Proven experience in designing, planning, and managing projects that support gender equality and women's participation is essential. Candidates should have a strong knowledge of international instruments and institutions promoting gender equality, as well as excellent computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft applications. The ability to work effectively in a team and establish relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds is crucial.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as gender studies, social and political science, law, sociology, or public administration. A second-level university degree is preferred and can reduce the required professional experience by two years, highlighting the importance of formal education in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of increasingly responsible professional experience in gender equality and women's participation in political life. This experience should include work at the international level, demonstrating the ability to navigate complex political environments and engage with various stakeholders effectively. Proven experience in project design, planning, and management is also essential, as is a strong understanding of international gender equality frameworks and their implementation.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Russian is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders within the OSCE region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international secondment, with a fixed-term contract. The role is full-time, and candidates should be aware that the OSCE operates on a principle of staff rotation, limiting the maximum period of service in this post to 10 years. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging nominations from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. Candidates must apply through their respective authorities, as the OSCE can only process secondment applications nominated by participating States. Medical clearance is required for appointments, and the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.