International Consultant, Preventing Gender and Sexual Harassment in Law Enforcement

Background

The OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine (SPU) project “Strengthening Capacity of National Stakeholders to Combat Gender-Based Violence, including Domestic Violence in Ukraine” is implemented in co-operation with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine (MoIA) and the National Police of Ukraine (NPU). The Project is aimed at strengthening the institutional responses to gender-based violence (GBV) in Ukraine.

With the adoption of Law No. 8329 in Ukraine, it is important that the MoIA and NPU are prepared to apply the new legislation on sexual harassment and GBV. Internally, the police need clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to handle cases of sexual harassment within the institution, ensuring proper reporting and response. Externally, MoIA and NPU staff should receive practical survivor-centred and gender-sensitive training on how to apply the new law, including how to identify, document and respond to GBV and sexual harassment cases in line with national and international standards. Moreover, during 2025–2027, the MoIA is tasked with implementing measures outlined in the Presidential Decree of Ukraine “On the Comprehensive Strategic Plan for Reforming Law Enforcement Agencies as Part of the Security and Defence Sector of Ukraine for 2023–2027.” These reforms emphasize the importance of integrity, accountability, and respect for human rights in law enforcement.

To support the MoIA in aligning its internal policies and practices with both Ukrainian law and international standards, it is envisaged to conduct a comprehensive analysis of international legal frameworks, standards, and best practices on preventing and responding to gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment in law enforcement institutions of different countries. The findings will serve as the basis for developing recommendations, SOPs, and training curricula that reflect international best practices while being adapted to the Ukrainian context.

Please note that this is a short-term consultancy assignment of approximately 20 days within 2 months duration. The consultant will be required to work from home with no need to travel.

Tasks

Develop a methodology and define clear analytical criteria for the comprehensive analysis of international legal frameworks, standards, and best practices on preventing and responding to gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment in law enforcement institutions of different countries.

Conduct a review of international legislation, institutional frameworks, and best practices on preventing and responding to gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment in law enforcement institutions according to the developed methodology.

Analyse how different countries address sexual harassment in society, including legislation, penalties, prevention measures, and statistical data.

Identify key standards and good practices from international organizations and from selected countries with comparable law enforcement structures, and compare international approaches with Ukraine’s existing legal and institutional framework, identifying strengths, gaps, and opportunities for alignment.

Based on the analysis, prepare recommendations for SOPs for reporting, investigating, and responding to cases of gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment in MoIA agencies.

Develop policy guidance for institutionalizing preventive measures and establishing a transparent, survivor-centered response system.

Prepare presentation of findings and recommendations for the MoIA and other relevant stakeholders.

Necessary Qualifications

First-level university degree in Law/Criminology/Human Rights/Gender Studies or related field;

Minimum of six years of professional experience in legal research, judicial analysis, or criminal justice reform, practical experience in working with law enforcement;

Proven expertise in preventing gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment, legislation, relevant procedures and practices of law enforcement in gender-based violence response;

Strong analytical, drafting, and presentation skills;

Excellent written and oral communication skills in English;

Self-discipline and ability to work against deadlines;

Demonstrated gender awareness and sensitivity, and an ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities;

Ability to work with people of different nationalities, religions and cultural backgrounds, different gender, and diverse political views, while maintaining impartiality and objectivity;

Computer literacy with practical experience using Microsoft applications.

Remuneration Package

Remuneration will be paid in accordance with the OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine established consultancy rates. Applicants are encouraged to include in their applications their financial proposals for the foreseen services.

Only online applications will be considered. To apply, please use the online application system at https://vacancies.osce.org; the Requisition/Vacancy Number is OSC000494. The deadline for applications is 20 November 2025.

Applications received after the published deadline will not be considered. Only those candidates who are selected to participate in the subsequent stages of recruitment will be contacted. Details of the assignment and contract may be further discussed during the interviews.

The OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise the vacancy, to cancel the recruitment, to offer an appointment with a modified job description or for a different duration.

The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious, ethnic and social backgrounds to apply to become a part of the organization.

Candidates should be aware that OSCE consultants shall conduct themselves at the highest personal and professional level at all times, while on assignment and shall not act in a manner which is likely to bring discredit to the Organization in general. The OSCE is committed to applying the highest ethical standards in carrying out its mandate. For more information on the values set out in OSCE Competency Model, please see https://jobs.osce.org/resources/document/our-competency-model.

Please be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application and review process. Additional Information