Domestic Observation and CSO Partnership Expert

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), re-established by proclamation No. 1133/2011, is the constitutionally mandated body to conduct elections, organize referendum and regulate political parties in Ethiopia. NEBE is working to boost its’ institutional strength with a special focus on enhancement of human resource capacity. Accordingly, NEBE would like to invite applicants for Domestic Observation and CSO Partnership Expert position who meet the following requirements.

Required number: One

Reports to: Head, External Relation and Partnership Development Department

Duty station: NEBE Head Quarter, Addis Ababa

Duration: Permanent

Salary: As per the organization salary scale

JOB SUMMARY

The Domestic Observation and CSO Partnership Expert is responsible for coordinating election human rights monitoring, domestic observation activities and fostering partnerships with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to enhance transparency and credibility in electoral processes. This role involves provision of advice and review observation methodologies designed by observer organization, training observers, and collaborating with CSOs to promote civic engagement in elections observation & human rights observation. The Expert plays a vital role in strengthening the organization’s collaboration with civil society and ensuring the integrity of domestic election observation efforts.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Observation Methodology:

• Review and refine domestic observation methodologies submitted by CSO partners and other observers for accreditation; design NEBE systems for monitoring election observation processes .
• Ensure the adherence to international/regional standards and best practices in observation activities.

Observer Training:

• Organize training programs for domestic observers, ensuring they are well-versed in observation methodologies, techniques, codes of conduct, and data collection and reporting methods.
• Provide ongoing support and guidance to observers throughout the observation period.
• Coordinate the preparation and update of observation information packs in collaboration with communication department.
• Monitor and provide onsite support to trainings on domestic observation organized for Observers by accredited CSOs.

Observer Deployment:

• Mapping and identification of a critical number of CSOs for observation engagement .
• Ensure the selected observers are identified by the accredited CSOs based on NEBE domestic observation directive.
• Facilitate accreditation of domestic CSO observers and provision of badges for their individual observers.
• Monitor and where appropriate and necessary, provide support to the accredited CSOs while they deploy their observers to polling stations and relevant electoral events.
• Supervise the data collection process, resolve issues, and ensure accurate, evidence-based and timely reporting of observation findings.
• Collect observation reports from CSOs accredited for domestic election observation.
• Prepare summary observation reports and facilitate publication of the same.

CSO Partnership:

• Identify, establish, and nurture partnerships with local and national Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to collaborate on observation initiatives.
• Facilitate joint training sessions, workshops, and capacity-building activities with partner CSOs.
• Support Observer CSOs to secure funding for election observation activities.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Analyze observation reports, prepare summary comprehensive reports, and disseminate findings to relevant stakeholders, including other NEBE Departments, CSOs, government agencies, and the public.
• Ensure the accuracy, reliability, and integrity of observation reports as per agreed methodologies with CSOs during pre-accreditation appraisals.

Advocacy and Engagement with CSOs:

• Engage with CSOs to advocate for electoral reforms, transparency, and gender and social inclusion in electoral processes.
• Promote election observation awareness public announcements and provide basic information on accredited CSO Observers and their role.

Compliance and Ethics:

• Ensure domestic observation activities comply with the Proclamation, the Directive, other relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Uphold, and ensure accredited CSOs also uphold the principles of impartiality, transparency, and integrity in all observation-related activities.

Capacity Building:

• Provide technical assistance and support to CSO partners to enhance their capacity in election observation .
• Organize workshops, seminars, and knowledge-sharing sessions for CSOs and their staff.
• Any other task assigned by the line manager

Job Requirements

Requirements on academic qualification:

• BA/BSc/MA/M.Sc. in Social Science, Sociology, Psychology, Low, Management, Development Management, Public Administration, Political Science and related fields

Requirements on Professional Experiences:

• 7/5 years of relevant experience respectively.

  Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of international standards and best practices in election observation and civic engagement.
• Strong networking and partnership-building skills with a focus on collaboration with Civil Society Organizations.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and present findings effectively.
• Commitment to democratic principles, human rights, and civic participation