National Expert for Digital Tools Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE (Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe) is a prominent international organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, security, and stability in Europe and beyond. The OSCE operates in 57 participating states across Europe, Central Asia, and North America, with a focus on conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict rehabilitation. The organization employs approximately 3,500 staff members and engages with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and international partners, to foster democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law.

Job Overview:
The position of National Expert for Digital Tools Assessment is crucial within the framework of the project 'Supporting Central and Local Institutions for Inclusive Democratic Processes in Albania: Empowering Women, Youth and Civil Society (Phase 2)'. The primary function of this role is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of digital tools and platforms that can enhance citizen engagement in local governance, particularly focusing on youth participation. The expert will be responsible for mapping existing digital tools, assessing their effectiveness, and identifying best practices from both local and international contexts. This role requires a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Albanian municipalities in engaging citizens and the technical capacity needed to implement effective digital solutions. The expert will also provide tailored recommendations for municipalities to improve their digital engagement strategies, thereby contributing to more transparent and inclusive decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Expert will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting desk research to identify and assess at least 15-20 digital tools for citizen engagement; documenting best practices from municipalities that have successfully engaged citizens, particularly youth; mapping the current use of digital tools by Albanian municipalities and identifying gaps; conducting interviews with municipal stakeholders to assess their capacities and needs; and developing tailored recommendations for digital tools suitable for different municipality sizes. The expert will also compile findings into a comprehensive report and guidance document, ensuring that the recommendations are practical and actionable for local governments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Social Sciences, Development Studies, Political Studies, Law, Economy, Public Administration, European Studies, International Cooperation, or Information and Communication Technology. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of experience as a consultant, advisor, or analyst for development organizations, civil society organizations, or state institutions. Demonstrated experience with digital governance, civic technology, and e-participation platforms is essential, along with extensive knowledge of the legal and institutional framework related to civil society in Albania. Candidates should also have experience in conducting desk reviews, focus groups, data analysis, and evaluations using participatory research methods, as well as excellent English drafting and communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in fields related to social sciences, development studies, political studies, law, economy, public administration, European studies, international cooperation, or information and communication technology. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of citizen engagement and the digital tools that can facilitate it.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in consulting, advising, or analyzing for development organizations, civil society organizations, or state institutions. Candidates should have a proven track record in digital governance and civic technology, particularly in the context of citizen engagement and participatory processes. Experience in working with local civil society organizations and understanding the specific challenges faced by municipalities in Albania is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role requires excellent drafting and reporting skills. Knowledge of Albanian is also essential, given the local context of the assignment. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the Western Balkans region.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy assignment is expected to last for a period of 4 months, starting from May-June 202

• The position is classified under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and is categorized as a consultant role. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Remuneration will be in accordance with the established rates of the OSCE. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.