International Consultant - Mapping Official Government Mechanisms for Civil Society Participation in the EU Accession Process
Organizational Context
UN Women works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls, empowerment of women, and achievement of equality between men and women. In the Europe and Central Asia region, UN Women ECARO aims to strengthen the participation of Women's Rights Organizations (WROs) in EU accession processes. This involves assessing their engagement, providing capacity-building, and facilitating dialogue to ensure women's perspectives inform reform priorities and implementation.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to conduct a regional mapping and assessment of national consultation, coordination, and monitoring mechanisms related to the EU accession process across 10 countries/territories in Europe and Central Asia. The assessment will specifically examine the extent to which gender equality and women's participation are integrated into these official government mechanisms. The consultant will develop a methodology, map these mechanisms, and prepare a factual report detailing their legal basis, mandate, composition, and participation of civil society and women's rights organizations.
Responsibilities
The consultant will develop a methodology and data collection template for mapping official government mechanisms for civil society participation in the EU accession process. This includes identifying mechanisms related to EU accession, sectoral working groups, public participation initiatives, and monitoring structures under the Reform and Growth Facility. The consultant will conduct desk reviews and consultations to gather information across 10 participating countries and territories. A regional mapping report will be prepared, detailing the legal basis, responsible institutions, mandate, structure, composition, and participation of civil society and women's rights organizations for each mechanism. Finally, the consultant will facilitate an online validation meeting to verify findings and submit a revised final report.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of progressive professional experience in gender equality, women's rights, governance, democratic development, or EU integration is required. Experience working in the Western Balkans, Türkiye, or Eastern Partnership region, with civil society organizations (including WROs), and conducting research/mapping for international organizations is essential. Experience with participatory governance mechanisms and UN/EU is an asset.
Skills
Demonstrated knowledge of gender equality, women's rights, and gender mainstreaming in public policy and governance. Knowledge of the EU enlargement process, accession framework, and civil society participation mechanisms. Experience in research, mapping, and report writing. Understanding of participatory governance and institutional arrangements for civil society engagement.