Background
DI/USAID Support to Electoral Integrity (SEI) is committed to support the implementation of elections in
Bosnia and Herzegovina and is in its second year of implementation following the successful piloting of
optical scanners on October 6, 2024, elections. In accordance with the electoral law amendments of
March 26, 2024, measures related to the use of specific electoral technologies are to be introduced
gradually for the 2024 Local elections in selected pilot areas in order for them to be ready for wide
implementation for the 2026 general elections.
To be able to develop and deploy new electoral technologies more widely in 2026 General Elections,
with the overall purpose to contribute to improving the work and capacity building of the Central Election
Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina (CEC), consequently improving electoral process in BiHDI/USAID
SEI is seeking an experienced provider for the following:
Scope of Work
Objective
Conduct a quick assessment of the institutional capacity of the CEC in order to determine key capacities
that already exist, as well as gaps and needs related to those capacities and additional human resources
and technical capacities needed to improve the integrity of electoral process in BiH by applying new
technologies in 2026 general elections. The ICA will establish key weaknesses and gaps in staffing for
the USAID SEI project to address.
The service provider is expected to:
- Analyse structures, competencies and functions of CEC human resources which will result in
recommendations for improving their performance by deploying embedded electoral experts,
providing mentoring, training, and developing job descriptions and helping the CEC train and hire
additional critical staff; - Analysis of the existing law, by-laws and regulations related to the employment and personnel
policies of the CEC, including performance reviews, constructive feedback, professional
development and adjustment options. - Prepare the proposal for restructuring and capacity development to improve the efficiency and
effectiveness of CEC staff, that will include requirements regarding the future use of new
Timeline
The timeframe for delivering of the services under this Scope of Work is January 5 – February 28, 2025.
The level of effort for the assignment is 30 days.
Methodological Approach
The service provider will design/adjust the Internal Capacity Assessment methodology, including
interviews and questionnaires to be reviewed and approved by the prime. The service provider will work
under the overall supervision and in close coordination with the USAID Support to Electoral Integrity
team, especially Chief of Party and Elections Capacity Building Specialist.
Functional review and capacity development plan
It will use a range of instruments and methods including but not limited to:
- Desk research that includes a review of internal CEC document, laws, by-laws, CEC strategic plan
2024 -2027 and other plans that regulate the work of the CEC and personnel policy. - Desk review of internal policies and practices of the CEC;
- Structured interviews with CEC’s professional staff and Commissioners;
- Focus group discussions;
- In depth analysis of organization structure and staffing levels;
- In depth analysis of personnel requirements related to introduction of new technologies and
digitalization of electoral processes; - Feedback from Municipal Election Commissions (MEC) on CEC coordination and work pertaining
got elections and implementation of new technologies (through structured surveys and online
interviews)
Final Report to include Institutional Capacity Development Plan
The service provider is expected to prepare a final report with findings, recommendations, and capacity
development plan for CEC (which may be a draft version to be agreed between the CEC and SEI). The
content of the report will be proposed by the service provider and subject of discussion, feedback and
approval of the USAID SEI. The capacity development plan should have an action plan with the specific
capacity building activities prioritized jointly with USAID SEI with a timeline, proposed budget and
expected impact/effects.
The service provider is expected to ensure reaching the set objectives and deliverables by combining (or
expanding, as necessary) the above-described types of engagement while ensuring highly relevant
expertise necessary for quality delivery of the required service.
Application Process:
This call for applications is open for 15 days.
Application must be submitted by December 12, 2024.
Interested companies must submit the following application package:
Company profile: A detailed overview of the company's experience, services and capabilities in the field
of internal capacity assessments matching requirements in this RFP.
List of references: At least three references, including names of companies/institutions/organizations,
contact persons, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses.
Two examples of previous work: Relevant reports or capacity assessments that demonstrate a
methodological approach, analytical skills and subject matter expertise. They can be submitted as
attachments or links to online documents (for internal documents, excerpt or descriptions may be
accepted).
Application Submission:
Applications should be sent to asabic@democracyinternational.com
Shortlisted companies may be required to submit additional documentation.
USAID SEI reserves the right to cancel the procurement process at any stage, including during the
evaluation process, and is not obligated to provide justification before a contract is signed.
Please note: No telephone or email inquiries will be accepted