Associate Programme Officer – Electoral Processes

International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA)

About International IDEA

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) is an Inter-Governmental Organization dedicated to supporting sustainable democracy worldwide. Its mission is to strengthen democratic institutions and processes through global comparative knowledge, policy proposals, and technical assistance in areas such as:

• Electoral processes
• Constitution building
• Political participation and representation
• Climate change and democracy
• Digitalization and democracy

Project Overview

International IDEA is leading a consortium implementing the EU-funded project "Strengthening Pan-African Capacities for Electoral Observation and Assistance." This three-year initiative aims to enhance the transparency and credibility of elections in Africa while contributing to SDG 16.6 (effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions).

Key Partners

• African Union Commission (AUC) – Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (DPAPS)
• Regional Economic Communities (RECs)
• Electoral Management Bodies (EMBs) networks
• Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA)

Project Activities

• Capacity building (training, mentoring, peer learning)
• Advisory services & technical assistance
• Development of knowledge products & digital tools

Role Summary

The Associate Programme Officer will support the day-to-day planning and implementation of the project, including research, stakeholder engagement, and monitoring & evaluation.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Technical Assistance & Stakeholder Engagement

   • Support electoral technical assistance to AU, RECs, EMBs, and CSOs.
   • Engage with project partners and national institutions.

2. Programme Implementation

   • Assist in designing and monitoring training programmes, workshops, and conferences.
   • Identify synergies and partnership opportunities.

3. Research & Knowledge Development

   • Conduct research on electoral issues and trends in Africa.
   • Contribute to knowledge products (research papers, articles, social media content).
   • Maintain a database of training beneficiaries.

4. Project Coordination

   • Support procurement processes for consultants.
   • Assist in monitoring & evaluation (data collection, impact documentation).

5. Reporting & Compliance

   • Prepare periodic project reports (aligned with results framework).
   • Ensure adherence to communication & visibility plans.

General Profile

• Strong knowledge in elections, democracy, digitalization, and gender.
• Ability to conduct research, draft reports, and engage stakeholders.
• Team player with experience in multicultural environments.
• Willingness to travel extensively within Africa.
• Adherence to International IDEA’s core values: Respect, Integrity, Professionalism.

Education & Experience

• University degree in Political Science, Law, Sociology, International Relations, or related fields.
• 3+ years of experience in elections, democracy, and governance.
• Experience in project management and EU-funded projects (advantage).
• Familiarity with AU, RECs, and EMB networks (preferred).
• Fluency in English required; French or other AU languages (advantage).

Terms of Contract

• Position type: Local post (must be legally authorized to work in Ethiopia).
• Contract duration: Fixed-term until 31 December 2026.
• Salary: USD 1,796 (base salary) per month.
• No relocation support provided.

Application Process

• Deadline: 23:59 (CEST) on 16 April 2025.
• Language: Applications must be in English.
• Selection Process:
  • Written test assessment.
  • Up to two (2) interviews.
• Notification: All applicants will be informed of their status via email.

Apply online at the International IDEA careers portal.

International IDEA is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.