Democratization Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is an international organization that aims to promote peace, stability, and democracy in the region. Established in 1999, the mission operates with a focus on human rights, rule of law, and democratic governance. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, working collaboratively with local and international stakeholders to implement its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Democratization Officer will work under the direct supervision of the Senior Democratization Officer and the overall supervision of the Regional Centre Director. The primary function of this position is to assist the Field Support Section within the Regional Office in implementing governance-related programs. This includes assessing capacity-building needs, developing and implementing projects and training for municipal and civil society stakeholders, and performing research to compile background material on key topics. The officer will also assist in organizing meetings and maintaining regular contact with various governmental and public administration structures to ensure ongoing dialogue and support for the OSCE Mission in Kosovo. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying issues that require special attention and support, as well as formulating relevant projects to address these issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be responsible for assessing capacity-building needs and developing projects and training programs aimed at improving compliance with good governance principles and adherence to the European Charter of Local Self-Government. This includes providing support for local governance reform processes, conducting research, and compiling background materials on major topics. The officer will assist in organizing meetings with local representatives and international organizations, providing logistical support, and writing summaries and reports on discussions. Additionally, the officer will support both HQ and field structures in project design and implementation, providing feedback on project activities, summarizing evaluation results, and suggesting improvements. Establishing and maintaining regular contact with central and municipal structures is essential for identifying issues that require OSCE support. The officer may also perform related duties such as interpretation, translation, and administrative work as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in Public Administration, International Relations, Political Science, Social Science, Law, or a related field. A minimum of two years of substantive working experience with governmental, municipal, and civil society structures at the local level is required, with at least two years focused on developing and managing local governance-related projects. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret research data, present findings effectively, and communicate with government and municipal representatives. Strong project implementation and coordination skills are essential, along with professional fluency in English and excellent communication skills. Proficiency in Albanian or Serbian is mandatory, while knowledge of additional local languages such as Turkish, Gorani, or Roma is considered an asset. Candidates should also demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree, which is typically a Bachelor's degree or equivalent, in a relevant field such as Public Administration, International Relations, Political Science, Social Science, or Law. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of governance and the political landscape in Kosovo.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of two years of relevant experience working with governmental, municipal, and civil society structures at the local level. This experience should include a focus on developing and managing projects related to local governance, demonstrating a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this context. Candidates should also have experience in project implementation and coordination, showcasing their ability to manage multiple tasks and work effectively in a team environment.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in Albanian or Serbian is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders. Knowledge of additional local languages such as Turkish, Gorani, or Roma is considered advantageous and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time contracted role with a monthly remuneration of 1,609.42 Euro, subject to social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security deductions. Social benefits include participation in the OSCE group medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. Appointments are typically made at Step 1 of the OSCE salary scale, with the possibility of higher initial appointments in exceptional cases based on relevant experience. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not reimburse expenses related to interviews, tests, visas, or relocation. Candidates must be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance and that the mandatory retirement age is 65 years for contracted positions. The OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.