Vacancy: Policy Officer Rule of Law – Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in

Belgrade

General
Strengthening rule of law across the Western Balkans is one of the priorities within the EU
enlargement process. Cluster 1, consisting of Chapter 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and
Chapter 24 (Justice, Freedom and Security) of the European acquis is at the very heart of this
process. The Netherlands attaches great importance to a functioning rule of law as a precondition
for countries joining the EU.

Roles and responsibilities

Focal point for the rule of law in Serbia and in Montenegro within the Dutch Ministry of Foreign
Affairs ‘Western Balkans Regional Rule of Law Network’ at the Embassy in Belgrade.

Policy advise
• Analysing and monitoring rule of law developments in Serbia and in Montenegro, in particular
related to the functioning of the judiciary and the justice chain, the fight against corruption
and organized crime, the system of checks and balances (incl. the role of independent
oversight and regulatory bodies), human rights, public administration reform and media;
• This entails following political developments, legislative trajectories, implementation of reforms
and having up to date knowledge of the role of civil society and international organisations and
in the field of the rule of law;
• Submitting relevant information and policy input in the aforementioned policy fields to the
ministries in The Hague, embassies in the region, Dutch Permanent representation to the EU,
and, where necessary, communicating Dutch policy positions to counterparts in the region;
• Proactively contributing to (regional and national) high quality assessments, speaking notes,
background notes, interviews etc. on rule of law related topics.

Project management
• Initiate, manage and monitor a project portfolio under the Dutch (regional) MATRA fund for
civil society, in close cooperation with relevant colleagues.
• Initiate Public Diplomacy activities, when related to rule of law.
• Proactively promote Dutch participation in rule of law related EU projects and programmes
(incl. Twinnings, TAIEX) and other peer-to-peer opportunities for Dutch implementing
organizations.

Outreach
• Building and maintaining a professional network with local and Dutch institutions, civil society
and international organisations in the field of rule of law;
• Representing the Embassy within the scope of his/her responsibilities and assignments in rule
of law related meetings, workshops, briefings, coordination meetings and conferences;
• Setting up events in the framework of his/her responsibilities and when necessary helping in
the organization of various embassy events.

Job requirements
Key experience and knowledge
• University degree in law, political science or a closely related field.
• A broad interest in topics such as constitutional, European, international and criminal law.
• At least 5 years relevant working experience, preferably in an international setting.
• Knowledge and experience of the Serbian and Montenegrin governance and justice sectors.
• Good network, such as Serbian and Montenegrin officials and CSO’s.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and Serbian; knowledge of Dutch is a plus.

Key features of the type of colleague we are looking for

• Independent and analytical mind, able to process and summarize information quickly and
translate insights and information into clear and concise policy recommendations.
• Excellent and adaptable communication and writing skills.
• Creativity and pro-activeness. Capable of thinking out-of-the-box and presenting new ideas.
• The ability to place developments in Montenegro and in Serbia in a broader context, taking
into account Dutch interests.
• Strong networking skills. Establishes and maintains a broad network.
• Eagerness to learn and improve on the job.
• Ability to plan and organize.
• Willing to regularly travel to Montenegro.

Contract information
• Work week: 37.5 hours
• Duration of contract: a fixed-term contract of one year, to be renewed once before an open-
ended contract will be granted.
• Starting date: 1st February 2023 (some flexibility possible)

Application procedure
• Please submit to BEL-jobs@minbuza.nl:
o A cover letter (maximum 1 page) explaining why you want the job and why you are a
suitable candidate;
o A copy of your CV;
o A short introductory video of yourself (maximum 60 seconds).
• Deadline is 13th November.
• Only electronic applications will be accepted.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and a written assignment within 3
weeks of the closing of the vacancy.

Working environment
• Reflecting the importance the Netherlands attaches to rule of law, in 2014 a ‘Regional Rule of
Law Network’ was created, consisting of local policy officers at the Dutch embassies in the
region (Skopje, Belgrade, Pristina, Sarajevo and Tirana). The network is coordinated by the
‘Regional Rule of Law Coordinator’, based in Belgrade.
• The network has up to date information on rule of law developments in the region and
contributes to policy discussions on Dutch foreign policy in the Western Balkans. The network
also manages creative projects through the Dutch MATRA programme, addressing persistent
rule of law challenges in the region.
• The officer will participate in regional activities of the regional network (online meetings,
regional gatherings and meetings in the Netherlands) and where necessary, support the
Regional Rule of Law Coordinator logistically and administratively.
• We offer a most interesting job, in an international environment. The position offers sufficient
challenge, possibilities to develop your own ideas and opportunities for further growth. If
required you can follow courses and trainings, both to further strengthen your knowledge as
well as for personal development.