Programme Officers

World Alliance for Citizen Participation is one of the leading and most diverse international civil society networks, with members and partners in more than 100 countries and a staff of 40 people from 20 countries. It implements a range of programmatic activities focusing on strengthening civil society and its role in governance and development worldwide. It also serves as a convener of global civil society leaders through its annual World Assembly and other activities.

CIVICUS seeks to recruit Programme Officers for its Civil Society Watch Programme, which seeks to expose, address and prevent threats to civil society, particularly related to freedoms of association, expression and assembly. More information is available at: www.civicus.org <http://www.civicus.org/> . Programme Officers will be responsible for

analysis, networking and advocacy in support of civil society. In particular, we are seeking to recruit Programme Officers with experience and networks in a specific region, and associated language skills. Those with experience in the Middle East / North Africa (with Arabic language skills) and the post-Soviet region (with Russian language skills) are particularly encouraged to apply. 

The ideal candidates should have the following skills, experience and knowledge:

* Commitment to CIVICUS' vision, mission and values;

* Deep understanding of human rights and civil society issues

* Experience and proven track record in human rights advocacy and/or relevant  civil society activism experience, particularly at the policy-level

* Strong analytical skills with the ability to write for a variety of audiences

* International work experience and strategic networks (Middle East / North Africa or post-Soviet countries preferred)

* Ability to successfully work individually and as a contributing member of a team

* Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and preferably one other major international language

* An advanced degree in a relevant discipline, preferably law, human rights or political science. 

Start date: As soon as possible.

Duration: Initially a 12 month contract will be offered, with the possibility of renewal

Please include a Resume (CV) with contact details of three current referees and a motivational cover letter including a statement verifying that the details within the CV are true and correct, and that the candidate agrees to the conducting of reference and background checks. CIVICUS holds reference reports in the strictest of confidence.

Closing date: Monday 6 October 2008

Candidates should forward above documents and information to:

humanresources [at] civicus [dot] org.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.