Contracting Organization: SmartUp – Social Innovation Lab
Project: Policy Pilots for the National Development Strategy 2024-2044 & Foresight Unit Research
Introduction
SmartUp:
SmartUp Social Innovation Lab is an eco-system builder dedicated to connecting various stakeholders to promote and develop social innovation. With a mission to catalyze social innovation in North Macedonia and the broader region, SmartUp focuses on building a socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable society.
Project Overview:
In early 2021, the Government of North Macedonia initiated the preparation of a National Development Strategy (NDS) for the period 2024-2042, supported by the British Embassy in Skopje, the UNDP, and the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Slovakia. The NDS aims to outline a common development path for the country, employing an inclusive, participatory, whole-of-society approach to build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
The Policy Pilot Development, managed by SmartUp, seeks to support the operationalization of the NDS and accelerate national efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through governance innovation. The key component of this project is the development of policy pilots focused on the social and economic inclusion of displaced people and other foreigners in North Macedonia.
Position: Research Consultant
Purpose:
The Assessment Consultant will conduct preliminary research on the policy pilot focus area and prepare a baseline information package for participants. This package will ensure all participants have a shared understanding of the current context regarding the integration of displaced people in North Macedonia.
1. Scope of Work
Preliminary Research:
Objective: To provide a comprehensive overview of current policies, challenges, and best practices related to the integration of displaced people into North Macedonia’s social, political, and economic systems.
Key Tasks:
- Desk Research (8 days):
- Analyze relevant laws, policies, and statistical data on migration and integration.
- Review existing reports and research from national stakeholders, international organizations (IOs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
- Interviews and Stakeholder Engagement (2 days):
- Conduct interviews with key stakeholders, including UNHCR, government agencies (MLSP, MoI), NGOs (MYLA, Centre for Refugee & Migrant Law, Helsinki Committee), etc.
- Data Analysis and Report Generation (5 days):
- Compile and analyze data to summarize the current situation.
- Prepare a baseline information package for participants, covering:
- Overview of current policies on displaced people and their integration.
- Challenges in integration efforts.
- Relevant statistical data, including demographic data on displaced people.
- Best practices at local and global levels.
2. Methodology
- Desk Research:
- Review existing literature, including the National Development Strategy (NDS) documentation, relevant legislation, reports from various stakeholders, and statistical data.
- Interviews/User Research:
- Engage with relevant organizations and stakeholders to collect qualitative data.
3. Expected Outputs
- Baseline Information Package:
- A detailed report summarizing the findings from the desk research and interviews.
- A comprehensive overview of the current situation regarding the integration of displaced people in North Macedonia, including policy analysis, challenges, demographic data, and best practices.
- Directions on opportunities for the development of policy pilots on the inclusion and integration of displaced people and other foreigners
4. Duration and Timeline
- Total Duration: 15 days
- Desk Research: 8 days
- Interviews and Stakeholder Engagement: 2 days
- Data Analysis and Report Generation: 5 days
- Timeframe: 14.8.2024 – 15.9.2024
5. Qualifications and Experience
- Proven experience in research and analysis, particularly in migration and integration policy.
- Strong understanding of the social, political, and economic systems in North Macedonia.
- Excellent communication and report-writing skills.
- Experience engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and affected populations.
6. Reporting and Communication
The consultant will report to the designated project manager at SmartUp and collaborate closely with UNHCR staff and other stakeholders involved in the policy pilot development process.
7. Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their resume and examples of previous relevant work to [email protected] by 14.8.2024.
The daily fee for this role is set at 7,500 MKD gross per day, as defined in the project budget.
This activity is implemented by SmartUp – Social Innovation Lab in partnership with the Representation of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in North Macedonia (UNHCR) and United Nationals Development Programme (UNDP).
