Programme Assistant (Eastern Partnership)

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Starting: Autumn 2026

Contract type: 1–2-years

Salary: Approx. €3,800 gross/month

Deadline: 28 June 2026 at midnight Brussels time

Precision, perspective, purpose.

At the European Endowment for Democracy (EED), we stand behind people working for democratic change in difficult environments — where civic space is restricted and political pressure is high. Our support is fast, flexible, and grounded in trust.

We're now looking for Programme Assistants to join our team working on the Eastern Partnership region. This is a dynamic role where you’ll support the full cycle of EED grant-making: from assessing applications to supporting grantees, write reports, and stay connected with one another. You’ll track developments on the ground, liaise with local partners, and help make sure our support remains sharp and relevant.

This is an opportunity for someone detail-oriented, collaborative with great analytical and critical thinking skills — someone who thrives in a mission-driven environment and is ready to grow.

What You’ll Do

Working as part of the Programmes Team you will report to an Eastern Partnership Programme Manager and your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the assessment of incoming applications

• Assisting with follow-up communication and coaching of applicants during the review process

• Assisting with monitoring the progress of ongoing initiatives, including reviewing narrative reports and gathering insights from the field

• Assisting in drafting reports to donors and internal programme documentation

• Assisting with the organisation of grantee exchanges, learning sessions, and community-building activities

• Supporting programme-related events, both in Brussels and the region

• Undertaking outreach and monitoring missions, where needed

• Staying up to date with political developments and trends relevant to EED’s work in the Eastern Partnership/ Eurasia region

What You Bring

You have:

• A university degree in political or social sciences, international affairs, law, development, or a related field

• At least one year of full-time professional experience in civil society-related projects or programmes

• Full professional fluency in English and Russian

You are:

• Organised, focused, and comfortable managing multiple timelines

• A clear communicator who works well with partners and colleagues

• Collaborative and culturally aware, with high personal and professional integrity

• Motivated by purpose — and able to connect your daily tasks to a broader mission

Bonus points for:

• Experience working directly with civil society in the Eastern Partnership region

• Knowledge of EU policies towards Eastern neighbourhood

• Experience with compliance, budgeting, or donor reporting tools

• Experience in grant-making, project cycle management, or donor reporting

• Knowledge of other languages from Eastern Partnership countries

Why Join Us?

• Meaningful work: Help support grassroots efforts defending democracy and rights in one of the world’s most challenging contexts.

• A smart, international and diverse team: Join colleagues who care about impact and work collaboratively across regions and disciplines.

• Benefits that matter: Our package includes complementary health insurance (CIGNA), meal vouchers, public transport or bike allowance, 13th month salary, holiday pay, paid leave, parental leave options, and annual training opportunities.

How to Apply

Please apply online via our recruitment portal. Your application must include:

• Your CV in Europass format

• A one-page motivation letter

• Contact details for three professional references

Interviews will take place in Brussels. A written test may be organised.

Please note: We do not accept queries by phone, email, or letter. All data is handled in accordance with EU legislation. Pre-employment screening and criminal records checks are part of the recruitment process.