International Consultant for Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS) Gap Analysis and Functional Mapping

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is the UN system's focal point for coordinating disaster risk reduction efforts. It guides, monitors, and reports on the Sendai Framework, supporting global and national implementation. This consultancy is part of an initiative to strengthen disaster risk reduction and early warning systems in the Western Balkans, funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to strengthen national capacities for early warning systems in North Macedonia. The role will contribute to improved coordination, clear policy guidelines, and the development of an adopted roadmap and action plan for disaster risk reduction. By assessing existing systems, identifying gaps, and facilitating stakeholder engagement, the consultant will help establish effective multi-hazard early warning systems, ultimately saving lives, protecting infrastructure, and reducing economic losses from disasters. The work supports the global Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative.

Responsibilities

Conduct a desk review of national policy, planning documents, and existing early warning system assessments to establish a baseline. Establish and maintain a coordination mechanism between UNDRR, WMO, ITU, IFRC, UNDP, and North Macedonia's national institutions for the EW4ALL initiative. Adapt and utilize standardized tools to assess gaps and needs across the four EW4ALL pillars. Collect and analyze data through consultations, interviews, and desk-based analysis to produce a gap assessment report with recommendations. Develop a costed, sequenced national roadmap with priority actions, defined roles, implementation pathways, and financing options, ensuring alignment with national strategies and EW4ALL standards. Facilitate national workshops to validate the gap analysis and roadmap, and finalize the plan. Develop workshop materials and presentations, and support efforts to secure high-level attendance for political visibility and commitment.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, or climate resilience is required. Proven experience coordinating with or supporting UN agencies, government ministries, and national technical institutions in DRR or early warning is essential. Experience in developing roadmaps, conducting gap analyses, and facilitating high-level consultations is desirable.

Skills

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Early Warning Systems (EWS), Climate Resilience, Stakeholder Coordination, Gap Analysis, Roadmap Development, Workshop Facilitation, Policy Analysis, Project Management, UN/Government Collaboration.

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