The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) office in Brussels represents FIDH before the institutions of the European Union (Council, Commission, European Parliament, and other associated bodies), as well as to the representations of its member states. It ensures the visibility of FIDH’s actions and those of its member organisations to the European Union and develops advocacy strategies to effectively mobilise the EU on human rights issues worldwide, while identifying ways to strengthen its lever.
FIDH is recruiting a : REPRESENTATIVE TO THE EUROPEAN UNION IN BRUSSELS – FULL-TIME PERMANENT CONTRACT
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the responsibility of the Advocacy Director based in Paris, your main responsibilities will be :
A / Define EU advocacy strategies in consultation with internal stakeholders, to support the implementation and strengthening of EU human rights policies, including :
- Supporting FIDH member organisations and the FIDH Operations Directorate teams in defining and guiding FIDH recommendations targeting EU institutions;
- Developing advocacy directions, the annual activity program, and implementing specific action programs led by FIDH offices, in coordination with the Operations Directorate and member organizations, and monitoring their progress;
- Analysing the effectiveness and impact of EU human rights policies and proposing ways to strengthen them;
- Developing the delegation’s communication strategy towards the EU, in collaboration with the Communications Directorate.
B / Implement the delegation’s activities:
- Coordinate and supervise the participation of FIDH member NGOs or partners in various EU institutions;
- Coordinate and supervise the provision of information to EU institutions based on inputs from FIDH, its members, and partners;
- Represent FIDH before EU institutions, member state representations, and other stakeholders (funders, NGOs, media), ensuring strong relationships;
- Oversee the strategy for promoting FIDH’s activities to the public;
- Ensure reporting and evaluation of delegation activities, including advocacy actions and other reporting requirements (internal monthly and annual reports, narrative reports for other funders).
C / Foster and strengthen interaction with internal and external actors, ensuring quality support for FIDH member organisations during interfaces, sharing information on delegation strategies and activities, and developing partnerships with other NGOs.
D / Manage a team (currently one staff member + one intern).
E / Oversee the delegation’s day-to-day logistical and administrative management, with the support of delegation staff.
SKILLS REQUIRED
Education & Experience:
- Master’s degree in law, political science, or international relations, with at least 5 years of professional experience in a similar role, including 3 years in human rights advocacy;
- Excellent knowledge of EU human rights policies, allowing you to identify and mobilise the most effective levers to achieve concrete results;
- Strong understanding of international human rights standards and mechanisms.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT :
- Full-time permanent contract – 39 hours/week
- Based in Brussels – FIDH recognises the importance of flexible working arrangements for work-life balance and offers remote work options after the probationary period.
- Salary: €57,000 gross per year
- FIDH contribution to health insurance: €80/month; public transport subscription reimbursement in Brussels; meal vouchers of €8/meal (employee contribution: €1.09)
- Leave and RTT: 25 days of paid leave per year, 24 compensatory rest days per year
Position to be filled : As soon as possible
How to apply
Send your CV AND cover letter to recrutement@fidh.org quoting reference DOIG-UE-0126 in the subject line no later than Friday, February 6, 2026.
Interviews will take place as applications are received.
FIDH reserves the right to close the recruitment process before the deadline for applications.
Hans Thoolen on Human Rights Defenders and their awards 
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