Head, Tolerance and Non-Discrimination Department

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 founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. It has 57 participating States and operates in various countries across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The OSCE addresses a wide range of security-related concerns, including arms control, human rights, and economic and environmental activities. The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is a principal institution of the OSCE, focusing on the human dimension, including election observation, human rights, and tolerance issues. ODIHR implements assistance projects in accordance with its mandate, working to enhance democratic processes and human rights across the OSCE area.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Tolerance and Non-Discrimination Department will play a crucial role in advising and assisting the leadership of the OSCE in defining priorities related to tolerance and non-discrimination. This position involves shaping and implementing ODIHR's strategy in these areas, managing human and financial resources, and establishing relationships with key partners and organizations. The role requires representation of the Office at international conferences and meetings, as well as performing other related tasks as necessary. The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate strong leadership skills, sound judgment on politically sensitive matters, and the ability to manage projects effectively while fostering a collaborative team environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of the Tolerance and Non-Discrimination Department will be responsible for advising OSCE leadership on tolerance and non-discrimination priorities, shaping and implementing ODIHR's strategy in these areas, managing departmental resources, and maintaining relationships with key partners. Specific duties include:

• Advising OSCE leadership on defining priorities related to tolerance and non-discrimination.
• Developing and implementing ODIHR's strategy in these areas.
• Managing human and financial resources allocated to the Department.
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with key partners and relevant organizations.
• Representing the Office at international conferences and meetings.
• Performing other related work as required to support the Department's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in human rights, political science, law, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the second-level degree. Additionally, a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible professional experience in human rights or a related field is required, with twelve years of experience preferred for those holding a first-level degree. Leadership skills and managerial experience are essential, including the ability to lead a team with a clear vision and effectively manage resources. Candidates should demonstrate sound judgment on politically sensitive matters, project management experience, and excellent team-working skills. A demonstrated awareness of gender issues and the ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The position requires a second-level university degree in human rights, political science, law, or a related field. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have two additional years of qualifying experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights and the political landscape in which the OSCE operates.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible professional experience in human rights or a related field, preferably gained in an international environment. Those with a first-level university degree should have twelve years of relevant experience. Experience in leadership roles and project management is crucial, as well as familiarity with the operations of international organizations and the OSCE specifically.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory. A working knowledge of another OSCE language is desirable, as it will enhance communication and collaboration within the organization and with its partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract at the senior professional level (P5) with a full-time schedule. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The maximum period of service in this post is five years, and appointments are subject to medical clearance. The OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process. The remuneration package includes a monthly salary of approximately EUR 10,300, which is exempt from taxation in Poland, along with social security benefits and participation in the Cigna International medical insurance scheme. Candidates should be aware of the mandatory retirement age of 65 years for contracted positions.