Associate Programme Officer - Roma and Sinti Issues

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is the principal institution of the OSCE responsible for the human dimension. Established to promote democratic development, human rights, tolerance, and the rule of law, ODIHR operates across the OSCE area. The organization is committed to addressing a wide range of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-related concerns, including human rights, national minorities, and democratization. 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 implementing their commitments related to human rights and democratic governance, and it plays a crucial role in election observation and the promotion of human rights.

Job Overview:
The Associate Programme Officer for Roma and Sinti Issues will be stationed within the Contact Point for Roma and Sinti Issues (CPRSI) at ODIHR in Warsaw. This role is pivotal in assisting participating States to effectively implement OSCE commitments related to Roma and Sinti. The incumbent will be responsible for monitoring and analyzing the human rights situation of Roma and Sinti, particularly concerning racism and discrimination. They will draft reports and policy papers, analyze the impact of legislation on Roma and Sinti, and contribute to the development of strategic activities and projects. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including national authorities and civil society organizations, to facilitate dialogue and promote inclusion and non-discrimination.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of functions under the supervision of the Senior Adviser on Roma and Sinti Issues. Key responsibilities include: monitoring and reporting on the human rights situation of Roma and Sinti, particularly regarding racism and discrimination; drafting reports, analyses, and policy papers related to the implementation of the OSCE Action Plan; analyzing the impact of new legislation on Roma and Sinti; contributing to the development and implementation of strategic activities; collaborating with ODIHR departments and external organizations; planning and facilitating training activities for stakeholders; and promoting dialogue and understanding among different groups.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in law, political science, sociology, social science, public administration, international relations, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience is acceptable. A minimum of two years of directly related professional experience in human rights or public policy is required, with a preference for experience specifically related to Roma and Sinti issues. Candidates should have a strong understanding of international human rights institutions and policies regarding minorities, as well as experience in project design and implementation.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a second-level university degree (Master's degree) in a relevant field such as law, political science, sociology, or international relations. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of relevant experience will be accepted. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to address complex human rights issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of professional experience directly related to human rights, public policy, or a similar field. If the candidate holds a first-level university degree, four years of relevant experience is required. Experience in monitoring human rights, particularly concerning Roma and Sinti, is highly desirable. Familiarity with national, regional, and international policies addressing Roma and Sinti issues will be an asset, as will experience in designing and implementing projects aimed at vulnerable groups.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are essential for this position. Knowledge of another OSCE language is considered desirable, as it would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and facilitate communication across different cultural contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position is open for secondment only, meaning that candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. All costs related to the assignment must be borne by the nominating authorities. The OSCE does not provide a Board and Lodging Allowance for seconded staff members. The contract type is international secondment, and the position is full-time. The maximum period of service in this post is 10 years, and candidates must adhere to the ethical standards expected of international civil servants. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.