Online extremism researcher (local consultancy)

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Archived vacancy details

The following information is provided for archival purpose only.

Issued by: OSCE Mission to Serbia
Vacancy number: VNSRMC00536
Vacancy type: Experts/Consultants
Number of posts: 1
Duty station: Belgrade
Date of issue: 15 June 2018
Deadline for application: 21 June 2018 - 23:59 Central European Time (CET/CEST)
Date of entry on duty: 9 July 2018

Background

		This call for applications is open for persons with the citizenship of or permanent residence in the Republic of Serbia. The project "Countering Violent Extremism and Radicalization Threats in Serbia through Community-Based Early Warning and Preventive Engagement" is aimed at establishing and consolidating a foundation for efforts to prevent and counter violent extremism and radicalization that can lead to terrorism (VERLT) in Serbia. Preventing and countering VERLT is recognized as a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach in the global fight against terrorism to which the Government of Serbia is committed. Discussions with interlocutors and key stakeholders reveal that there is a need for more data, facts and information on topics concerning extremism, violent extremism, radicalization and terrorism in Serbia, as well as on how to prevent and counter VERLT. As Serbia is a quite diverse country, there is scope for a very diverse approach to identifying research needs and questions. While there has been some past research in Serbia, and there are research efforts underway, as a complex and interdisciplinary field a multiplicity of voices is needed to ensure vibrant debate and discussion among researchers and academics that could lead to concrete policy discussions and proposals. Further, support to established and promising researchers will contribute to a stronger research environment in Serbia, and in the region, more generally. The Project already supported a number of research efforts in the first year of implementation, including two reports on different aspects of online radicalization. However, there is a lack of focussed research about online extremism and radicalization in Serbia, particularly through the use of increasingly popular online discussion platforms.

Tasks and Responsibilities

		Therefore, the Project requires the services of researcher with the ability to conduct research for publication, discussion and debate on the topic of the use and role of online discussion platforms among the far-right in Serbia. Some online discussion bulletin boards enjoy a global reputation as a forum for the “alt right,” and have been characterized as a significant tool for the dissemination of politically incorrect content, including hate speech and incitement to violence against minority groups in general and including in Serbia, as well as generally spreading extremist narratives online. Under the supervision of the Project Co-ordinator, the consultant will: Conduct research on the use of online discussion boards in Serbia for the promotion of extremism and radicalization; While an introduction to the most significant discussion boards as a global platform should be included, the focus of the research should be on issues directly relevant to Serbia (topics, actors, content analysis, number of users, number and quality of Serbian language entries etc.); Discuss these messaging platforms with active users – either through online chat options or in-person interviews, as access permits; Submit a written draft for project team discussion (by 30 August 2018); Prepare a final document for publication (15-20 pages, plus notes), in English; Attend consultative meetings with the OSCE as needed.

Necessary Qualifications

		Citizenship of or permanent residence in the Republic of Serbia; University degree in a relevant field (political science, security studies, international relations, sociology, or other social sciences); Familiarity with VERLT and P/CVE initiatives in Serbia; Experience in conducting research, using both primary and secondary sources; Professional fluency in Serbian and English, both written and oral; Computer literate with practical experience in Microsoft packages; Ability and willingness to work with people of different cultural, national and religious background; Demonstrated gender awareness and sensitivity, as well as the ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities.

Required competencies

		Core values Commitment: Actively contributes to achieving organizational goals Diversity: Respects others and values their diverse perspectives and contributions Integrity: Acts in a manner consistent with the Organization’s core values and organizational principles Accountability: Takes responsibility for own action and delegated work Core competencies Communication: Actively works to achieve clear and transparent communication with colleagues and with stakeholders of the Organization Collaboration: Works effectively with others on common goals and fosters a positive, trust-based working environment Planning: Works towards the achievement of goals in a structured and measured manner Analysis and decision-making: Analyses available information, draws well-founded conclusions and takes appropriate decisions Initiative-taking: Proposes and initiates new ideas, activities and projects Flexibility: Responds positively and effectively to changing circumstances Managerial competencies (for positions with managerial responsibilities) Leadership: Provides a clear sense of direction, builds trust and creates an enabling environment Strategic thinking: Identifies goals that advance the organizational agenda and develops plans for achieving them Managing performance: Helps to maximize team performance by providing active feedback and skill development opportunities

Remuneration Package

		The consultant will be paid an amount not exceeding 1,500 EUR in total, commensurate to individual qualifications and experience. In addition, the OSCE will bear any travel and accommodation costs associated with the consultancy.

How To Apply

		Please apply online through this website (https://jobs.osce.org) no later than 21 June 2018. Only applications received through this website will be considered; applications received by email, post etc. will not be accepted. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Candidates who have not been contacted by 1 July 2018 should consider there will be no follow up to their application. The OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise the vacancy, cancel the recruitment, offer a consultancy at a different level or with modified terms of reference or for a different duration.