International expert to deliver a Training of Trainers (ToT) module on investigating environmental crimes (SSA)

Background:

Environmental crimes pose serious and growing threats to biodiversity, ecosystems, public health, the rule of law, and sustainable development. These crimes are frequently linked to organized criminal networks, generating significant illicit profits while undermining climate resilience, depleting natural resources, and negatively affecting community well-being.

While there is established legal and institutional framework for environmental protection in Kosovo, enforcement remains a challenge. Limited investigative capacities, gaps in specialized expertise, and insufficient inter-agency co-ordination constrain the ability of law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities to effectively detect, investigate, and prosecute environmental crimes. Strengthening the technical knowledge and operational skills of relevant institutions is therefore essential to improve accountability and deterrence.

To address these challenges in a sustainable manner, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo (the OSCE), through its Serious and Organized Crime Section (SOCS), and within the framework of the project “Strengthening Capacities of Local Law Enforcement Institutions to Tackle Serious and Organized Crime and Violent Extremism (Phase VIII),” will engage an international expert to deliver a Training of Trainers (ToT) programme on the investigation of environmental crimes. The ToT programme aims to build a pool of local trainers capable of independently delivering training on environmental crime investigations within their respective institutions.

The expert will deliver a four-day ToT session for selected representatives of law enforcement agencies and the prosecution service, using interactive and participant-cantered learning approaches that go beyond traditional lecturing. The training will combine presentations, facilitated discussions, case studies, group work, and practical exercises based on realistic environmental crime scenarios, while actively engaging participants in micro-teaching sessions to practice facilitation techniques, receive structured feedback, and build confidence as trainers. It will also introduce key principles of adult learning, training design, and effective communication, enabling participants to adapt the material to different audiences. Furthermore, the ToT will foster inter-agency collaboration by bringing together participants from various institutions to encourage information sharing and co-ordinated approaches to environmental crime investigations, while providing guidance on delivering the module in a consistent and standardized manner, with flexibility for adaptation to specific operational contexts.

The training module will be developed in close consultation with the OSCE’s focal point on environmental crime to ensure alignment with local needs and priorities.

Objective of Assignment: 

Strengthen institutional capacity to investigate environmental crimes through the delivery of a training-of-trainers programme that enhances participants’ technical knowledge, instructional skills, and inter-agency co-operation.

Duration of Assignment:

The Consultant will be hired for 5 working days.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

1. Develop a training module plan on the investigation of environmental crime in close consultation with the OSCE Activity Manager.
2. In co-ordination with the OSCE Activity Manager, prepare and submit pre- and post-evaluation questionnaires.
3. Prepare presentations for the four-day training on the investigation of environmental crime and submit them to the OSCE Activity Manager for review and approval.
4. Deliver a four-day training for approximately 10 representatives from law enforcement institutions and the Prosecution.
5. Prepare and submit a draft final report to the OSCE Activity Manager for comments and review.

Deliverables:

• By 08.09.2026, develop and submit the final version of the training module plan to the OSCE Activity Manager, incorporating the comments provided.
• By 08.09.2026, develop a pre- and a post-evaluation questionnaire to evaluate the participants knowledge.
• By 08.09.2026, develop the training agenda and materials, and reflect the OSCE Activity Manager’s feedback and submit the final versions for approval.
• By 14-17.09.2026, deliver a four-day training on environmental crime, to be evaluated by both the participants and the OSCE Activity Manager.
• By 25.09.2026, submit a final report to the OSCE Activity Manager summarizing key observations from the training, identifying gaps on the topic, and providing recommendations for future actions.

Necessary Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in law enforcement, environmental science, criminology, natural resource management, or a closely related field. A first-level degree combined with additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• At least eight years of progressively responsible professional experience in the investigation, supervision, and enforcement of environmental crime, including areas such as waste management, illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and delivering training programs, including development of training curricula, modules, and materials on environmental crime investigation.
• Proven practical experience in conducting or supporting environmental crime investigations, including evidence collection, case development, and inter-agency coordination.
• Experience working in international or multi-institutional contexts, including collaboration with government authorities, law enforcement agencies, and international organizations.
• Strong knowledge of relevant Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs), including the Basel Convention, Montreal Protocol, and CITES, and their practical enforcement mechanisms.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver Training of Trainers (ToT) programs and to mentor participants, ensuring knowledge transfer and capacity building.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Fluency in English required; knowledge of official languages in Kosovo is an asset.

Remuneration Package:

Remuneration will be based on the selected consultant's/expert's qualifications, experience, the tasks and deliverables for this position and in accordance with the OSCE established rates.

In order to apply for this position, you must complete the OSCE's online application form, found under OSCE Careers- Jobs. Applicants are encouraged to use the online recruitment and only fully completed OSCE applications will be accepted. However, if you have technical difficulties with the system, you may use the offline application form found at Offline application form | OSCE Employment and forward the completed form quoting the vacancy number by email to: consultancy.omik@osce.org. In line with your qualifications please indicate a preference for one or more fields of expertise listed above (while using the online application the field of expertise preference can be indicated in the cover letter part). Kindly note that applications received after the deadline, submitted in different formats than the OSCE Application Form or other languages than the English language would not be considered. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious, ethnic, and social backgrounds to apply.