Programme Assistant Eastern Neighbourhood

Brussels, Belgium

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Based in Brussels and active in over a dozen countries, the European Institute of Peace (www.eip.org) is an independent organisation working collaboratively with the parties to the conflict, those who represent people suffering from insecurity or at risk of violence, as well as European decision-makers and the conflict prevention, resolution and mediation community.

We provide practical experience, technical expertise, and policy advice on conflict resolution. We use a variety of tools to help us do this, including analysis, mapping and design of peace processes and agreements, facilitating policy discussions, and proposing practical engagement, for example through inclusive dialogue and mediation support.

Are you captivated by our innovative approach to peace, and do you want to contribute to the mission of our institute? Do you share our vision for a world where people live in safety and peace because conflicts and grievances are resolved through inclusive dialogue and lasting political agreements?

We are looking for a Programme Assistant to support the Eastern Neighbourhood team within the Institute's Engagement, Dialogue an Process Design (EDP) unit.


Your place in the team 

As Programme Assistant you will report  to the Senior Programme Manager.  The Programme Assistant will support the development and implementation of high-quality projects and/or programmes to prevent or resolve conflicts with a focus on the Eastern Neighbourhood region.


You will
  • Contribute to the day-to-day implementation of assigned projects, including large and small events planning and logistical management, travel booking and administrative follow-up, scheduling of meetings at various levels, including protocol for high-level engagements, drafting notes from meetings etc.
  • Provide operational, administrative and logistical support to the programme team throughout all phases of the project cycle to ensure smooth project delivery
  • Support in the management of on-going project budgets, contributing to organisation and management of invoice, expense claims and other administrative matters pertaining to working expenses
  • Contribute to the drafting of internal and external reports, contribute to the writing of concept notes and project proposals
  • Support in ensuring compliance with internal policies and guidelines, as well as strict compliance with donor rules and regulations in the delivery, the monitoring of programme implementation, expenditures and the reporting, while respecting deadlines
  • Take part in and when applicable coordinate meetings, within EDP and other units as well as externally, fostering smooth collaboration. Regularly engage with colleagues in the teams to ensure coordination on new and ongoing project activities
  • Coordinate regular and ad hoc internal reporting, ensuring timeliness and high quality of team contributions
  • Work closely with colleagues to compile briefing materials for internal and external audiences and events, including preparation of speeches for senior leadership


Your skills and experience
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in the field of international relations, development, diplomacy or related field
  • University degree in political science, conflict resolutions, international relations, or related field 
  • Understanding of EU policies, the functions of and workings of the EU institutions
  • Ability to manage data, documents, correspondence and reports information and workflow
  • Ability to problem solve in a fast oriented environment
  • Ability to perform a broad range of specialised activities aimed at effective and efficient functioning of the programme team
  • Perfect command of English, good command of Russian is an asset
  • Previous experience working on the Eastern Neighbourhood and knowledge of the regional political dynamics is an asset
  • Legally entitled to work in Belgium (EU citizen or currently in possession of a Belgian work permit)


The Institute offers
  • An exciting job in an international and diverse environment (18 nationalities represented at the Brussels Office)
  • Open-ended Belgian contract
  • Competitive Benefits package which includes health care insurance and pension plan, meal vouchers, transportation and telework allowance, and SIM card
  • 40h/week and 32 leave days/year
  • The possibility to telework 3 days a week


    Expected start date: As soon as possible 

The selected candidate will preferably reside in or relocate to Belgium when the employment contract starts.


Recruitment process

Closing date: 01/10/2023, midnight (Brussels time).

Please submit your application using the webform below.

Our hiring team will review all applications after the closing date of the vacancy. We will keep you informed on the status of your application. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a written test and interview before a final offer.

EIP firmly believes that diverse perspectives are key to our work. Therefore we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusiveness. Your qualities and commitment are what matter to us, regardless of race, nationality, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.


Deadline for application: 1 October 2023


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