Senior Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) was established in December 1997 with a mission to promote security and cooperation among its 57 participating States. The OSCE operates in various fields including politico-military, economic and environmental, and human aspects of security. The organization emphasizes the importance of free expression and media freedom as fundamental human rights, and it works to ensure compliance with media-freedom commitments among its member states. The OSCE has a diverse workforce and is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply. The organization operates in multiple countries and has a significant number of employees dedicated to various missions and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Adviser position at the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM) is a critical role that involves advising on all matters related to media freedom. The incumbent will regularly assess developments affecting media in designated regions, identify undue restrictions on media freedom, and prepare public statements and interventions as necessary. The Senior Adviser will also monitor compliance of participating States with OSCE and international commitments regarding media freedom, providing strategic advice to promote compliance. This role requires a deep understanding of international standards and laws related to media freedom, as well as the ability to analyze political and legal situations affecting media operations. The Senior Adviser will work closely with the Principal Adviser, the Director of the Office, and other stakeholders to ensure effective advocacy for media freedom and to address violations promptly.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Adviser will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: monitoring compliance of participating States with OSCE commitments on media freedom; verifying incoming information and analyzing the political and legal situation regarding media freedom; advising the Head of Institution on potential actions; submitting recommendations for action, including reviewing draft letters of intervention; supervising investigations of persecuted journalists and media outlets; assessing legislative developments related to media freedom; contributing to regular reports for the OSCE Permanent Council; compiling and editing special reports on media freedom topics; establishing contacts with relevant officials and organizations; monitoring media freedom violations; representing the Office at seminars and conferences; coordinating financial activities related to projects; and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in international relations, law, political science, or a related field. A first-level university degree may be accepted with an additional two years of relevant experience. A minimum of 7 years of professional experience is required, with 9 years necessary if only a first-level degree is held. Candidates should have practical experience in defending and promoting media freedom, knowledge of media professionals' working methods, and excellent communication skills in English. Familiarity with other official OSCE languages is desirable. Strong political judgment, experience with information technologies, and the ability to work in diverse teams are also essential qualifications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a second-level university degree (Master's degree) in fields such as international relations, law, political science, or other relevant areas. A first-level university degree may be considered if accompanied by additional relevant experience, specifically two years for each missing year of education. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complex legal and political frameworks that govern media freedom and expression.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience, which may include work in international organizations, governmental agencies, or non-governmental organizations focused on media freedom and human rights. Candidates with a first-level university degree must have at least 9 years of experience. This experience should demonstrate a strong background in media advocacy, legal analysis, and familiarity with international standards regarding freedom of expression.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Knowledge of other official OSCE languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and to operate effectively in various international contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position is open for secondment only, meaning that candidates must be nominated by their respective authorities. All costs related to the assignment must be borne by the nominating authorities. The OSCE emphasizes that seconded staff members are not entitled to a Board and Lodging Allowance. The contract type is international secondment, with a full-time schedule. The position is fixed-term, and candidates should be aware that the OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise or cancel the vacancy. The maximum period of service in this post is 10 years, and candidates must adhere to the highest ethical standards as international civil servants.