National Consultant on Trekking Routes in Kyrgyzstan

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) is part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote peace, stability, and democracy in its member states. The POiB focuses on various initiatives, including environmental security and sustainable development, particularly in mountainous regions. The organization collaborates with local and international partners to implement projects that enhance environmental protection and disaster risk management. The POiB operates in Kyrgyzstan, contributing to the development of local capacities and supporting the government in achieving its sustainable development goals. The office employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to fostering cooperation and dialogue among different stakeholders in the region.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant on Trekking Routes in Kyrgyzstan will play a crucial role in the OSCE's initiative to develop an atlas of the best trekking routes in the country as part of the Five Years of Action for the Development of Mountain Regions (2023 - 2027). This position involves collaborating with the Kyrgyzstan Federation of Mountaineering and Sport Climbing and the State Agency for Tourism Development to collect and process data on trekking routes. The consultant will be responsible for assessing the routes based on various criteria, including safety, accessibility, and experiential value. The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive atlas that will serve as a valuable resource for tourists and contribute to the sustainable development of Kyrgyzstan's mountainous regions. The consultant will draft work plans, prepare reports, and ensure that the collected materials meet the required standards for publication.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with drafting a detailed work plan that outlines specific activities and deadlines, which must be approved by the Federation’s President. Key responsibilities include identifying popular trekking destinations across various regions of Kyrgyzstan, drafting descriptions of these areas, and preparing materials that highlight the logistics and attractions of each route. The consultant will also collect and curate photographic materials to accompany the atlas, ensuring that all images are used with the appropriate permissions. Additionally, the consultant will be responsible for submitting drafts of the atlas content for review, finalizing the design and layout, and delivering a comprehensive final report on the activities conducted throughout the assignment. Monthly progress reports will also be required to track the project's advancement and ensure alignment with the established objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Environmental Studies, Journalism, Industrial Engineering, Tourism, or related fields. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in areas such as climate change, sustainable development, environmental protection, or tourism is essential. Experience in developing national standards and training programs for mountain guides and trekking guides in Kyrgyzstan is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate excellent writing skills and have professional fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz, with strong communication abilities in both oral and written forms. Proficiency in English is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should exhibit strong computer literacy, particularly with Microsoft Office applications, and demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity in their work.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in a relevant field, such as Environmental Studies, Journalism, Industrial Engineering, or Tourism. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental issues, tourism development, and the socio-economic factors that influence trekking routes in Kyrgyzstan. The degree should ideally provide a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills applicable to the tasks outlined in the job description.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of professional experience in fields related to climate change, sustainable development, environmental protection, or tourism. This experience should include working on projects that involve collaboration with international development partners or organizations. Familiarity with the local context of Kyrgyzstan, particularly in relation to trekking and tourism, will be beneficial for effectively carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

Languages:
Professional fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz is mandatory, as these languages are essential for communication with local stakeholders and for the preparation of materials. Proficiency in English is considered advantageous, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and enhance the consultant's ability to produce high-quality reports and documentation. Strong communication skills in all required languages are crucial for the successful execution of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) contract type, with a duration of four months. The consultant will be expected to work full-time during this period, contributing to the development of the trekking routes atlas. Remuneration will be determined based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, in accordance with the OSCE's established rates. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply. It is important to note that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.