Introduction

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations, and as the leading UN agency in the field of migration, works closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It does so by providing services and advice to governments and migrants.
 

IOM is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally, while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. Read more about IOM's workplace culture at IOM workplace culture | International Organization for Migration

Project Context and Scope

Labour migration remains a defining feature of the Republic of Tajikistan’s socio-economic landscape. Migration is predominantly characterized by seasonal and long-term labour migration, with remittances accounting for approximately 47 per cent of GDP in 2024. The Russian Federation has historically served as the primary destination country for migrant workers from Tajikistan.

Recent geopolitical and economic developments, including economic downturns, sanctions, and the March 2024 terrorist attack in Moscow, have contributed to increased returns of Tajik migrants. Limited domestic employment opportunities and persistent structural labour market constraints have reinforced circular migration patterns. These trends underscore the importance of strengthening national migration governance systems to ensure safe, orderly, and regular migration while enhancing sustainable reintegration and migrant protection.

The Government of Tajikistan has undertaken significant efforts to strengthen migration governance through institutional reforms, policy development, and infrastructure enhancement. The Ministry of Labour, Migration and Employment of the Population (MoLMEP) is the central authority responsible for migration management, labour market regulation, employment promotion, and labour migration governance. The Ministry oversees several subordinate institutions, including the Migration Service, Agency for Labour and Employment, Center for Handicraft and Skill Development, Agency for Employment Abroad, and the Center for Consultation and Preparation of Migrants before Departure and newly launched Centers supported by ADB. Despite these efforts, overlapping institutional mandates, fragmented service delivery systems, and coordination challenges limit the overall effectiveness and efficiency of migration governance.

The Consultant will support the Mobility Pathways and Inclusion (MPI) Unit.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Public Policy, or related field from a recognized institution

Experience

• Extensive knowledge of migration context in Tajikistan; 

• Minimum 7 years of relevant professional experience in migration governance, institutional reform, public administration, or labour migration;

• Demonstrated experience in conducting institutional and functional assessments; 

  • Experience working with government institutions and international organizations.

Skills

• Strong analytical, research, and report-writing skills;
• Knowledge of international migration governance frameworks and standards.

Languages

Fluent in English, Tajik and/or Russian, with excellent writing skills.

Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Required Competencies

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

Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these five values:

• Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
• Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
• Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
• Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.

Core Competencies – behavioural indicators

• Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
• Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
• Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
• Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
• Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.

Notes

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