Mikhail Assafov

Please tell us about your professional background. Where have you worked before coming to the OSCE and what did you do?

I joined the OSCE in 2010 during Kazakhstan’s Chairmanship of the Organization. Prior to joining the Programme Office in Astana, I briefly worked at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where I supported the OSCE task force in coordinating Chairpersonship activities. Building on this valuable experience, I transitioned to the politico-military dimension of the Programme Office in Astana, where I have since contributed to advancing the organization’s security-related projects and initiatives.

What’s your academic background? How does it align with the career you developed?

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in political science, where I focused on studying global conflicts, security challenges, and the evolution of criminal activities. During my senior year, I enrolled in a graduate course that involved research on the impact of indiscriminate attacks on civilians during the Chechen wars. This academic experience provided me with a deep understanding of the issues central to the politico-military dimension (PMD), equipping me with insights into the mandated areas of assistance to the host country and the challenges faced by various stakeholders.

After a decade of professional experience, I decided to further my education and pursued a Master’s degree at the Graduate School of Public Policy at Nazarbayev University. My thesis focused on the role of law enforcement educational institutions in building the capacities of cybercrime specialists. This academic pursuit directly supported my current role as a National Project Officer in the Extra-Budgetary Project, which aims to develop comprehensive strategies to counter cybercrime in Kazakhstan. My education has consistently aligned with my career, providing both the theoretical foundation and practical insights necessary for my work.

Where are you based now and what do you like most about your current job at the OSCE?

I am currently based in Astana, Kazakhstan, where I have worked for the past 14 years. Although the OSCE is not a career organization, it has allowed me to pursue a specialized path as an expert. I have gained a unique combination of skills through managing diverse projects, collaborating with state and non-state stakeholders, and working within a diplomatic environment. My role implementing an Extra-Budgetary project at a national level, with potential scalability across Central Asia, is especially fulfilling. Knowing that our work impacts millions motivates me to continue contributing to this vital mission.

What type of advice would you give to applicants considering international civil service?

For anyone considering international civil service, I would recommend approaching it as an opportunity to grow both hard and soft skills. Focus on fully engaging in this experience and treating it as a chance to gain specialized expertise. It is also beneficial to start with a clear focus area, setting specific learning objectives for what you want to accomplish. This approach helps you build a unique professional skill set, making the most of your time in this field.