CON 2026-23 Local Consultant – Migration Expert to support the Ombudsman Institution

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. Working closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners, IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It saves lives and protects people on the move, drives solutions to displacement, and facilitates pathways for regular migration, while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. 

IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. By creating such an environment, IOM aims to better harness the full potential of migration and strengthen its support to people on the move.

IOM invites candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process when required. Learn more about IOM’s workplace culture at IOM workplace culture | International Organization for Migration

The “EU4Migration in Albania” project aims to support the implementation of effective, efficient, and EU-aligned border and migration management systems in Albania. The project is embedded in the strategic objective of the National Strategy on Migration (NSM) in achieving effective migration governance to address challenges and enhance migration’s positive impact on development for the benefit of migrants and society.

Recent monitoring and casework indicate critical gaps between identification of migrants and formal referral to the protection system, shortcomings in proactive vulnerability screening (including unaccompanied and separated children and victims of trafficking), inconsistent pre-screening practices, and recurring concerns related to reception conditions (information provision, interpretation, complaint mechanisms and psycho-social support). This consultancy will support the Ombudsman institution to engage relevant institutions to address these gaps through evidence-based recommendations, improved procedures and strengthened safeguards, aligned with EU acquis.

Under the overall supervision of the IOM Head of Office, the direct supervision of the EU4Migration in Albania Project Manager, and in close coordination with the designated official at the Ombudsman institution, the consultant will support rights-based and EU-aligned migration governance, with a particular focus on protection of vulnerable groups, by:
•    Providing technical assistance to the Ombudsman and relevant counterparts to follow up on monitoring findings of the Ombudsman related to pre-screening, referral, and reception;
•    Supporting with drafting and/or revising standard operating procedures (SOPs), checklists and guidance for initial screening (pre-screening) and referral to the protection referral procedures, ensuring vulnerability-sensitive interviewing and safeguards;
•    Strengthening inter-institutional coordination (MoIA/Border and Migration Police, social services, child protection structures, anti-trafficking mechanisms, and civil society) to ensure timely referrals and protection responses for vulnerable persons;
•    Preparing thematic briefs, draft recommendations and technical inputs for the Ombudsman Institution to strengthen access to protection assistance (information, interpretation, legal aid) and improve reception safeguards (complaint mechanisms, psycho-social support, child-sensitive arrangements), in line with EUAA standards and EU acquis;
 

IOM covers Consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan (CP), free of charge, for the duration of the consultancy. IOM does not provide evacuation or medical insurance for reasons related to non-occupational accidents and illnesses. Consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accident or illness and will be required to provide written proof of such coverage before commencing work. 

Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation.

Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, security clearances.

IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.

IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.

IOM only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system (for internal candidates link here). The online tool also allows candidates to track the status of their application.

No late applications will be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For further information and other job postings, you are welcome to visit our website: IOM Careers and Job Vacancies

• Completed advanced degree from an accredited academic institution in Law (preferably migration law, human rights law), International Relations, European Studies, or other related areas.

• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience. 
• Experience (national or international) in migration governance, border procedures, reception, monitoring, refugee protection, or related rule-of-law/human rights work is preferable. 
• Strong knowledge of EU standards and international practices regarding migration.
• Demonstrated knowledge of vulnerability identification and referral, including child protection standards for unaccompanied and separated children and trafficking indicators and referral mechanisms for victims of trafficking.
• Experience in engaging with local authorities and other stakeholders such as: Ministry of Internal Affairs, State Police, Ministry of Justice, etc is preferable.
• Previous experience working with UN agencies and other international organizations is preferable.
• Experience with legislative drafting, policy and action plan development, and European integration, refugee, migrant issues or human trafficking prevention is preferrable.
   

• Ability to maintain accuracy and confidentiality in performing responsibilities. 
• Excellent communication and reporting-writing skills in Albanian and English.
• Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills with attention to detail. 
   

Fluency in Albanian and English is requested for this assignment

IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.