Legal Advisor

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 democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, ODIHR operates across the OSCE area, engaging in election observation, democratic development, and tolerance initiatives. The OSCE itself is a regional security organization with 57 participating States, founded on the principles of consensus and cooperation. The organization addresses a wide range of security-related concerns, including arms control, human rights, and counter-terrorism, and is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce. The OSCE has a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses various aspects, ensuring that all participating States enjoy equal status in decision-making processes.

Job Overview:
The Legal Advisor position at ODIHR involves providing legal advice and analysis on a variety of legal matters that arise from the operations and status of ODIHR. The incumbent will work closely with the Director and Deputy Directors, ensuring that legal interpretations align with the organization's mandate and applicable laws. This role requires a deep understanding of international law and the ability to navigate complex legal frameworks. The Legal Advisor will also be responsible for conducting research on legal precedents, advising on disciplinary procedures, and ensuring compliance with OSCE regulations. The position demands strong analytical skills, discretion, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a range of duties including: providing legal advice on the interpretation of ODIHR's mandate; analyzing international law issues affecting ODIHR's legal status; conducting research on legal precedents; advising on personnel-related matters and appeals; reviewing and interpreting OSCE's regulatory framework; negotiating legal instruments; drafting and reviewing legal documents; coordinating legal consultations; liaising with OSCE Secretariat Legal Services; and performing other related duties as assigned. This comprehensive set of responsibilities requires a proactive approach to legal challenges and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in law and a minimum of 6 years of relevant professional experience. Experience in legal practice, such as roles held by judges, prosecutors, or lawyers, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a strong knowledge of international law, experience in drafting and reviewing legal texts, and the ability to analyze policy implications. Discretion and sound judgment are essential, as is proficiency in Microsoft applications. Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English are mandatory, with knowledge of another OSCE language being an advantage. Candidates should also demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work effectively in diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree in law, which is essential for understanding the complexities of legal frameworks and international law. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for the legal advisory role within ODIHR, ensuring that the incumbent can effectively navigate the legal landscape relevant to the organization's operations.

Experience:
A minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible professional experience in legal practice is required. This experience should encompass a diverse range of legal issues, particularly those related to international law and organizational governance. Candidates with experience in drafting legislation and legal texts will be particularly well-suited for this role, as will those who have worked in environments requiring strong analytical and advisory skills.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is essential for this position, as the incumbent will be required to draft legal documents and communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Knowledge of another OSCE language is considered desirable, as it enhances the ability to engage with a broader range of participants and stakeholders within the OSCE framework.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international secondment, and candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. The maximum period of service in this role is 10 years, reflecting the OSCE's commitment to staff rotation. The position is full-time, and candidates should be aware that OSCE officials are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as international civil servants. The OSCE emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and diversity within its workforce, encouraging applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The OSCE does not charge any fees during the application process, and all appointments are subject to medical clearance.