National Thematic 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 nations, the OSCE operates on a consensus basis, ensuring that all member states have equal status. The OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM) plays a crucial role in conflict prevention and the integration of diverse societies, focusing on the treatment of national minorities and providing recommendations to governments. The HCNM was established to identify and resolve ethnic tensions that could threaten peace and stability. The organization has a significant presence in various countries, working on policy frameworks that promote interculturalism and social cohesion, particularly in the Republic of North Macedonia.

Job Overview:
The National Thematic Expert position is a consultancy role aimed at supporting the Ministry of Inter-Community Relations in North Macedonia in drafting a comprehensive National Strategy for the Development of Interculturalism and Social Cohesion for the period 2027-203

• The consultancy will involve working closely with inter-institutional working groups and the Lead Expert to ensure that the strategy is evidence-based, inclusive, and participatory. The expert will be responsible for drafting the narrative for their assigned thematic cluster, ensuring that it aligns with the findings from previous assessments and reflects both European and international standards. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders and a commitment to producing high-quality policy documents that address the needs of diverse communities in North Macedonia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Thematic Expert will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including: Familiarizing themselves with existing thematic recommendations, previous strategies, and evaluation reports; Engaging with inter-institutional working groups and attending relevant meetings; Participating in transition meetings to present findings; Drafting the narrative for their thematic section of the strategy and corresponding action plan; Collaborating with the Lead Expert and other thematic experts to ensure coherence across sections; Liaising with the Ministry of Inter-Community Relations and other relevant stakeholders; Co-organizing and contributing to stakeholder consultation events; Revising drafts based on feedback from various parties; Maintaining regular communication with the Lead Expert and ensuring confidentiality throughout the consultancy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as law, political science, education, public administration, media studies, sociology, or related disciplines. A first-level university degree combined with additional qualifying experience may be accepted. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of seven years of professional experience in the relevant thematic area, with a proven track record in North Macedonia or similar contexts. Strong knowledge of the political and legal landscape in North Macedonia, familiarity with national institutions, and experience in drafting national strategies or policy documents are essential. Excellent analytical, drafting, and communication skills in both English and Macedonian are required, with knowledge of Albanian being desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's Degree (second-level university degree or equivalent) in a field relevant to the thematic cluster for which the candidate applies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of interculturalism and social cohesion in the context of North Macedonia.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of professional experience in the thematic area they are applying for. This experience should include a demonstrated ability to work effectively in the Republic of North Macedonia or in contexts that are directly comparable. Proven experience in contributing to the design or drafting of national strategies, action plans, or similar government policy documents is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Macedonian is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Albanian is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication and understanding within the diverse communities in North Macedonia.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to commence in September 2026 and conclude by mid-December 202

• The position is part of a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and is classified as a consultant role. Candidates are required to indicate their proposed daily rate during the application process. The OSCE reserves the right to make final decisions regarding remuneration based on the complexity of tasks and the expertise required. Inclusion in the HCNM roster does not guarantee a contract, as engagements will be made on an as-needed basis. The OSCE is committed to diversity and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Consultants are not OSCE officials and are bound by the OSCE Code of Conduct and confidentiality obligations.