Lead Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is the world’s largest regional security organization, comprising 57 participating States. Established to promote peace, stability, and friendly relations among its members, the OSCE operates on a consensus basis, meaning all participating States have equal status in decision-making. The OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM) plays a crucial role in conflict prevention and the integration of diverse societies, focusing on early resolution of ethnic tensions that could threaten peace. The HCNM utilizes various tools, including recommendations to governments regarding the treatment of national minorities. The OSCE has a significant presence in various countries, working on policy frameworks that promote interculturalism and social cohesion, particularly in North Macedonia, where it has supported the development of national strategies aimed at fostering integration and harmony among communities.

Job Overview:
The Lead Expert will play a pivotal role in the drafting of the National Strategy for the Development of Interculturalism and Social Cohesion for the period 2027-2032, along with its accompanying Action Plan. This consultancy is structured in two phases, with the first phase focusing on assessing the current strategy's implementation and gathering citizens' views on inter-community relations. The Lead Expert will coordinate the drafting process, ensuring that the new strategy is comprehensive, evidence-based, and inclusive, reflecting both European and international standards while being grounded in the realities of North Macedonia. The expert will work closely with the Ministry of Inter-Community Relations (MoICR) and other stakeholders to integrate findings from assessments into the strategy's narrative and analytical foundation. The consultancy is expected to commence in September 2026 and conclude by mid-December 2026, with potential for extension based on feedback during the government adoption process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Lead Expert will be responsible for familiarizing themselves with existing thematic recommendations and guidelines, as well as previous strategies and evaluation reports. They will develop a drafting methodology and outline structure for the new strategy and action plan, which must be agreed upon with the MoICR and HCNM at the outset. The expert will coordinate the work of five national thematic experts, providing methodological guidance and ensuring coherence across all thematic clusters. Regular liaison with the MoICR, relevant ministries, and the OSCE Mission to Skopje is essential. The Lead Expert will integrate findings from needs assessments and inter-institutional working group reports into the strategy's narrative, produce successive drafts, and lead stakeholder consultation events. They will also revise drafts based on feedback and submit the final consolidated draft for government adoption.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in political science, sociology, law, public policy, international relations, minority rights, or related fields. A first-level university degree combined with additional qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of ten years of professional experience in areas related to the integration of diverse societies, interculturalism, and minority rights is required. Demonstrated experience in developing national strategies and action plans is essential, along with strong knowledge of European and international standards related to integration and minority rights. Familiarity with HCNM thematic recommendations, particularly the Ljubljana Guidelines, is an asset. Candidates should have proven experience in coordinating multi-disciplinary teams and managing inclusive consultation processes.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's level) in relevant fields such as political science, sociology, law, public policy, international relations, or minority rights. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by substantial relevant experience.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least ten years of professional experience in fields related to the integration of diverse societies, interculturalism, and public policy concerning minority rights. Experience in developing national strategies and action plans is crucial, as is familiarity with relevant European and international standards.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Macedonian are mandatory. Knowledge of Albanian is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to start in September 2026 and conclude by mid-December 2026, with a possibility of extension into January-February 2027 based on feedback during the government adoption process. The position is classified under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and is not subject to OSCE Staff Regulations. Candidates are encouraged to indicate their proposed daily rate during the application process. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Consultants are responsible for their financial and tax affairs and must comply with national legislation.