Consultant - Media Legislation Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Mission to Serbia is an integral part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote peace, security, and stability in the region. The mission focuses on various areas including media freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. The OSCE was founded in 1975 and has since expanded its operations to include 57 participating states across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The mission in Serbia aims to support the country in its democratic development and integration into European structures, with a particular emphasis on fostering a free and independent media environment. The mission employs a diverse team of professionals and experts who work collaboratively to achieve its objectives, and it is committed to inclusivity and respect for cultural diversity.

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant - Media Legislation Expert is designed for highly qualified individuals who will provide legal analysis and recommendations regarding the media framework in Serbia. The selected consultants will be part of the OSCE Mission's Consultancy Roster and may be engaged in various projects aimed at improving the media landscape in Serbia. The role requires a deep understanding of the current media laws and the Media Strategy goals set by the Serbian government for the period 2020-202

• The overarching goal of this strategy is to enhance the public information system by ensuring freedom of expression, media pluralism, and the safety of journalists. The consultants will be expected to analyze existing legislation, assess its implementation, and propose necessary improvements, particularly in light of digital developments. They will also engage with stakeholders to gather insights and contribute to the drafting of policy documents that align with the strategic objectives of the Media Strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the National Legal Officer, the consultants will undertake a variety of tasks including:

• Analyzing the current media legislation in Serbia, international standards, and EU accession requirements, particularly in relation to freedom of information and media reform.
• Conducting interviews with relevant stakeholders such as state institutions, regulatory bodies, media associations, and civil society organizations to gather diverse perspectives on media legislation.
• Actively participating in debates and consultations to discuss recommendations and contribute to the drafting of legal documents.
• Providing sound legal analysis and recommendations to enhance the media framework and ensure compliance with international standards.
• Preparing analytical reports that summarize findings and propose actionable steps for media reform.
• Collaborating with other experts and stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive approach to media legislation and policy formulation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• Citizenship of or permanent residence in the Republic of Serbia.
• A university degree in law is mandatory.
• A minimum of seven years of specific professional experience in legislation analysis and policy formulation is required.
• Proven experience in analyzing legal frameworks and preparing analytical reports is essential.
• In-depth knowledge of the Serbian legal system, media legislation, and media operations is crucial.
• Familiarity with civil, criminal, and administrative law, as well as business legislation including intellectual property and electronic communications law, is considered an asset.
• Knowledge of international media and human rights standards, public procurement, and state aid regulations would also be beneficial.
• Candidates should demonstrate good analytical and interpersonal skills, full computer literacy, and the ability to work effectively with diverse groups.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's Degree in Law or an equivalent first-level university degree. This foundational education is critical as it provides the necessary legal knowledge and analytical skills required for the role. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized training in media law or related fields may have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of seven years in the field of legislation analysis and policy formulation. This experience should include a strong focus on media legislation and the ability to assess and recommend improvements to existing legal frameworks. Candidates should have a proven track record of preparing analytical reports and engaging with stakeholders in the media sector.

Languages:
Professional fluency in both English and Serbian, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the preparation of legal documents. While fluency in additional languages may be considered an asset, it is not a requirement for this role.

Additional Notes:
The selected consultants will be engaged under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and will be compensated according to the OSCE Mission's remuneration policy, which is based on individual qualifications and experience. The payment will be made upon successful completion of all assigned tasks. The OSCE Mission to Serbia is committed to diversity and encourages applications from individuals of various backgrounds. The recruitment process is open only to applicants with citizenship or permanent residence in Serbia, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The deadline for applications is set for April 30, 2025, and candidates are advised to apply online through the OSCE jobs website.