Legal Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE has 57 participating States and operates in various countries across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The organization focuses on a comprehensive approach to security that includes politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The OSCE Secretariat, located in Vienna, provides operational and administrative support to field operations and other institutions, ensuring that all participating States enjoy equal status and that decisions are made by consensus.

Job Overview:
The position of Legal Advisor is integral to the OSCE's Transnational Threats Department (TNTD), specifically within the Action against Terrorism Unit (ATU). The Legal Advisor will be responsible for providing specialized legal advice and technical input on complex legal matters related to counter-terrorism. This role requires a deep understanding of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, particularly in the context of terrorism prevention and compliance with international standards. The Legal Advisor will engage with participating States to monitor their implementation of anti-terrorism legislation and ensure alignment with OSCE commitments. The position demands a high level of discretion and accuracy, as the Legal Advisor will be involved in sensitive negotiations and interactions with various stakeholders, including international organizations and government officials.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Advisor will undertake a variety of tasks, including reviewing legislation and conducting legal research to prepare documentation for policy-level discussions. They will provide specialized legal advice to the TNTD Coordinator and the Head of the Unit, particularly on legislative matters. The advisor will monitor and promote compliance with universal anti-terrorism instruments among participating States, identifying gaps in national legislation. They will also plan and implement technical cooperation programs, including workshops and initiatives aimed at enhancing legal frameworks for terrorism prevention. The Legal Advisor will facilitate interactions among participating States and international organizations, providing expertise on criminal justice and the rule of law. Additionally, they will assist in developing new actions to promote human rights-compliant approaches to counter-terrorism and provide technical assistance during missions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in international law, criminal law, political science, or international relations. A first-level university degree combined with at least two years of relevant experience may be accepted. Specialization in legal aspects of terrorism prevention is highly desirable. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in terrorism prevention and criminal justice is required, with at least two years in international organizations. Experience in diplomatic affairs and policy formulation is also highly desirable, along with practical experience in coordination with UN-system organizations, the Council of Europe, and the European Union. Strong drafting skills and professional fluency in English are essential, while knowledge of other OSCE languages is an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's degree (second-level university degree) in a relevant field such as international law, criminal law, political science, or international relations. Candidates with a first-level university degree and additional qualifying experience may also be considered. Specialization in terrorism prevention and its international dimensions is highly desirable, reflecting the complexity of the legal issues involved in counter-terrorism efforts.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience in terrorism prevention and criminal justice matters, with a focus on rule of law issues. This experience should preferably include at least two years working with international organizations. Familiarity with counter-terrorism issues and the OSCE's strategic areas is desirable, as is experience in diplomatic affairs and policy or treaty formulation. The role requires a strong understanding of security and military affairs at various levels.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of other OSCE languages is considered desirable, as it enhances the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and facilitates communication in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a secondment opportunity, meaning that candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. The OSCE Secretariat retains the discretion to re-advertise the vacancy or modify the job description as needed. The position is full-time and fixed-term, with a target start date as soon as possible. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process and that all costs related to the assignment must be borne by the nominating authority. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.