Local Consultant - Local Self-Government Strategy Drafting (SSA)

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is dedicated to supporting local institutions in enhancing local governance through strategic interventions aimed at establishing a long-term policy framework. The organization focuses on promoting good governance principles and inter-municipal cooperation, particularly in areas affecting non-majority communities, to improve governance performance and service delivery. The OSCE has been operational in Kosovo since its establishment, working towards fostering collaboration between communities and enhancing social cohesion. The mission is committed to aligning local governance with international standards and ensuring that the outputs of its projects, including strategies and frameworks, are owned by local authorities.

Job Overview:
The primary objective of this position is to provide expert support to the Ministry of Local Government Administration (MLGA) in drafting the new Strategy on Local Self-Government (LSGS) for the period of 2027 to 203

• The consultant will work closely with an international expert to ensure that the strategy is developed through a participatory, evidence-based, and results-oriented process. This role involves analyzing the current local governance context, identifying key stakeholders, and facilitating consultations to gather input for the strategy. The consultant will also contribute to drafting sections of the strategy that require a deep understanding of local governance structures and challenges. The LSGS aims to serve as a comprehensive framework for local governance development, emphasizing inclusion, transparency, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a desk analysis on local governance and institutional context in Kosovo, coordinating with the international expert to provide a contextual analysis that includes updates on the legal framework and municipal performance. They will lead stakeholder consultations, identifying key internal and external interlocutors, and support the international expert in organizing and conducting interviews, roundtables, and focus groups. The consultant will draft sections of the Consultation Summary Report and co-author selected sections of the LSGS, ensuring that the strategic framework reflects local governance legislation and complements other strategic documents. They will also assist in designing and facilitating a validation workshop with local governance stakeholders, collect feedback on the draft LSGS, and ensure that all deliverables are submitted within the agreed timelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in public administration, political science, public policy, strategic management, international development, or a related field. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in public administration, think tanks, or strategic planning is required, preferably with government and local government institutions. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of local governance legal frameworks, institutional reforms, and governance developments in Kosovo. Strong facilitation and drafting skills are essential, along with proven experience in supporting strategic planning or policy development processes. The ability to provide substantive Kosovo-specific context analysis is crucial, ensuring that strategic plans are realistic and aligned with institutional needs.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's Degree (Second-level university degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as public administration, political science, or international development. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of local governance and the strategic planning processes involved in developing the LSGS.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in public administration, strategic planning, or policy development, particularly in the context of local governance in Kosovo. Experience in leading participatory workshops and facilitating stakeholder consultations is highly desirable, as is a proven track record of supporting strategic planning processes.

Languages:
A strong command of English, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Knowledge of Albanian and/or Serbian is also required, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the local context and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will be hired for a duration of 20 working days under a Special Service Agreement (SSA). The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, as well as the tasks and deliverables outlined for this position. The OSCE encourages applications from qualified candidates of diverse backgrounds and does not request payment at any stage of the application process. All applications must be submitted using the OSCE's online application form, and late submissions or those in formats other than the OSCE Application Form will not be considered. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce.