International Expert to Assess the Readiness for the Digitalization and Development of the Transparency Index

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo was established to support public institutions in enhancing transparency, accountability, and good governance. The mission focuses on the effective implementation of legal frameworks that govern access to public documents and the protection of personal data. The organization has been operational for several years and has engaged in various initiatives to strengthen the capacities of public institutions in Kosovo. It collaborates closely with the Information and Privacy Agency (IPA) to raise awareness and build institutional capacities. The mission has produced significant results, including the development of guidelines and strategies aimed at improving transparency and data protection. The OSCE operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to promoting democratic values and human rights.

Job Overview:
The position of International Expert is crucial for assessing the readiness of public institutions in Kosovo to implement a future digital Transparency Index. This role involves evaluating the existing legal, procedural, institutional, and technical capacities of these institutions to support transparency obligations. The expert will provide recommendations for developing a sustainable and interoperable digital monitoring framework that aligns with ongoing digital transformation initiatives. The assignment aims to bridge the gap between policy concepts and practical implementation, ensuring that the Transparency Index serves as an effective governance tool. The expert will work closely with the IPA and other stakeholders to facilitate consultations and validate findings, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of institutional transparency and accountability in Kosovo.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The expert will undertake a comprehensive legal and institutional readiness assessment, reviewing the existing legal framework governing transparency and personal data protection in Kosovo. This includes evaluating whether public institutions have the necessary legal basis, internal rules, and designated officials to comply with transparency obligations. The expert will also assess the readiness of existing e-governance systems and digital platforms to support data collection and reporting for the Transparency Index. Additionally, the expert will analyze the interaction between transparency obligations and personal data protection requirements, including the use of AI-assisted tools for document management. The development of a draft indicator framework and methodology for measuring institutional transparency performance will be a key responsibility, along with defining an implementation roadmap for pilot institutions. The expert will facilitate stakeholder consultations to inform the process and validate findings, ensuring that the final deliverables meet the needs of the IPA and OSCE.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law, information technology, cyber security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in transparency, personal data protection law, governance, compliance, or data security is required. Extensive knowledge of European and international instruments on personal data protection and transparency is essential. The ability to draft policy papers, strategies, and action plans is necessary, along with strong analytical and communication skills. Candidates should demonstrate outstanding writing and reporting abilities, as well as experience in conducting interviews and surveys for data collection. The capacity to coordinate with various stakeholders to ensure comprehensive data collection is also important. Full professional fluency in English, including excellent drafting and analytical skills, is mandatory. Preferred certification by the International Association of Privacy Professionals on General Data Protection Regulation is an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's Degree, which is considered a first-level university degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as law, information technology, or cyber security. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of transparency and data protection laws, as well as the technical aspects of digital governance.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of relevant work experience in fields related to transparency, personal data protection, governance, compliance, and data security. This experience should include practical knowledge of legal frameworks and the ability to assess institutional capacities in these areas. Familiarity with e-governance systems and digital transformation initiatives is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent drafting and analytical skills. While English is the primary language required for this position, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an advantage, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is a Special Service Agreement (SSA) for a consultant role, with a duration of 15 working days. The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from various backgrounds to apply. The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, in accordance with OSCE established rates. Applicants must complete the OSCE's online application form, and only fully completed applications will be accepted. The deadline for applications is October 25, 2026, and the target start date for the position is as soon as possible.