We are

The European Union (EU) is an economic and political partnership between 27 European countries. It plays an important role in international affairs through diplomacy, trade, development aid and working with global organizations. Abroad, the EU is represented through more than 140 diplomatic representations, known also as EU Delegations, which have a similar function to those of an embassy.

The EU Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic, Bishkek works in close coordination with the Embassies and Consulates of the 27 EU Member States. We are a fully-fledged diplomatic mission and represent the European Union in dealings with the Kyrgyz government in areas that are part of the EU’s remit.

We offer

The post of Press and Information Officer (Local Agent Group 1) in the Delegation’s Political, Press and Information Section. The team consists of four people and there are occasional atypical working hours.
Under this post, the recruited person will be attributed functions depending on the needs of the Delegation, and on the changes of these needs. The successful candidate will work under the supervision and responsibility of the Head of Political, Press and Information Section, providing support, expertise and assistance.

Following main tasks and duties are currently required:

• Assist the Head of Delegation and the Head of Section in defining the press and information strategy of the Delegation and in preparing  annual  information, communication and publications plans and  activities
• Manage and organise the dissemination of information to mass communication channels (press releases, interviews, briefings, press conference, , press trips), public events (seminars, exhibitions, fairs, etc.) and information campaigns  about the European Union
• Manage the information flow via the communication channels of the EU Delegation (official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)
• Contribute to drafting and editing of press releases, brochures and other written material. Assist in the production of audio-visual material. Organise the translation of such material
• Manage the annual information budget, including overseeing financial management of information projects
• Prepare documentation and organise public tenders in the area of press and information
• Assess the impact of EU's initiatives as far as the visibility is concerned and suggest appropriate measures for improvement where and if needed

The base salary will depend on relevant and verified employment experience, typically starting from 1671 EUR. There is a competitive benefits package, subject to certain conditions, including personal leave days and public holidays, health insurances and a retirement savings plan. Please note that about 28% of the basic salary is transferred directly to the Social Fund and Tax authorities (income tax) in accordance with the local legislation.

The expected start date will be 15 September 2024. 

Minimum requirements / eligibility criteria (necessary for the application to be considered)

• University degree in Journalism/Communications, Political Science, International Relations or other fields of study relevant to the position;
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in performing the above mentioned tasks;
• Excellent knowledge of English, written and spoken (C1);
• Excellent knowledge of Russian, written and spoken (C1);
• Good knowledge of Kyrgyz, written and spoken (B2);
• Fully computer literate and mastering Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point;
• Proficient in managing and creating content across all major social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok;
• Right to residence and work in the Kyrgyz Republic
• Medical fitness to carry out the tasks assigned

Assets / selection criteria (basis for awarding points to select the best applicant)

• Previous relevant working experience in an international organization, an embassy or NGO, as a journalist, or in communications/public information
• Good knowledge of the Kyrgyz political systems and institutions, media, political figures and parties, legislative and social issues, human rights, and regional relations;
• Good knowledge of the EU and its external policies;
• Excellent communications skills with external and internal contacts;
• Any additional documented software skills, including website management skills.

The process

After the deadline for applications, the eligible applications will be admitted to the selection by the Committee set up for this purpose.

Depending on the number of applications received, successive phases of Selection may include shortlisting of candidates based assessment of the information provided in the cover letter, CV and talent screener; practical testing and interviews. At least 3 best candidates will be invited to the final interview.

Only candidates admitted to each successive selection phase will be contacted individually. The Delegation will use the same means of publication as for this job advertisement to inform the remaining candidates once the recruitment procedure has been completed and that a candidate has (or has not) been recruited.

The Delegation will not supply additional information or discuss the selection procedure. During the selection process, please do not contact the members of the Selection Committee, but address your questions and comments to the Delegation’s Administration.