Position Overview:
The Platform for Peace and Humanity is currently seeking researchers for the following two regional programmes: 1) Central Asia and 2) South East Europe and Black Sea Region (SEEBSR). Under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator, the volunteer researcher will research, analyse, and write about current geopolitical, human rights and humanitarian issues affecting the relevant region, primarily for publication in the Platform’s premier quarterly publication, the Peace and Security Monitor. The role may also involve contributing to other Platform publications or activities.
This is a voluntary, unpaid role and is ideal for early-career professionals or advanced students in international law, international relations, or development studies. Researchers should take a keen interest in the vision and objectives of the Platform.
Please indicate in your cover letter the region (Central Asia or SEEBSR) for which you are applying.
Deadline to apply: 22 July 2025
Start date: ASAP
Duration: minimum 12 months, including a one-month probationary period
Location: Home office (remote)
Time commitment: 5-10 h/week, flexible work hours
Duties and responsibilities:
- Research & Writing:
- Research geopolitical, human rights and humanitarian issues in the region using open-source information and other quantitative and qualitative research.
- Contribute a well-researched, high quality 2,000-word article with actionable policy recommendations on a quarterly basis for the Peace and Security Monitor.
- Draft blog posts and contribute to other publications or projects based on regional developments and programme needs.
- Perform other research or drafting-related tasks as requested.
- Collaboration & Participation:
- Collaborate closely with the Project Coordinator and also the Programme Director and other researchers, as appropriate, to ensure high-quality articles and other texts.
- Participate in editorial planning meetings and check-ins.
- Support the finalization of the Peace and Security Monitor and contribute to its promotion online.
- Participate in projects, fieldwork, and wider Platform activities as requested.
Required qualifications:
- Demonstrated passion and dedication to the mission and values of the Platform.
- A solid understanding of the region (Central Asia or SEEBSR), including the geopolitical situation and human rights and humanitarian issues.
- Masters or PhD (candidate or completed) in a related field; suitably qualified Bachelors will be considered.
- Professional-level English written and oral communication skills (C1 minimum) and the ability to convey complex information and messages in a straightforward way for the target audience.
- Commitment to meeting reasonable deadlines and producing high-quality deliverables.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Sharepoint, Teams) and Google Workspace.
Desirable qualifications:
- Professional-level local language skills, e.g., Russian for the Central Asia region, Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian for SEEBSR, etc.
- Experience with academic writing and/or academic blog posts.
- Entrepreneurial mindset and openness to proposing new research or publication ideas.
- Experience living or working in the relevant region.
What we offer:
- Coaching and mentorship to improve research and writing skills.
- Opportunities to use the Platform as a launchpad for your own research.
- Opportunities to represent the Platform at online or offline events.
- A profile on the Platform’s website and visibility in a global expert network.
How to apply
Applicants should upload their CV and cover letter in English via our application portal (https://peacehumanity.org/join-us/). Importantly, in your cover letter, please indicate the programme for which you are applying:Central Asia or SEEBSR.