Professionals from the developed world have historically dominated the field of international development. If you were to look at a typical field office in the past, you would see a team of managers or technical experts from places like Australia, North America or Western Europe. Local staff was hired for support and admin roles, but professionals from donor countries were running programs. But with the localization of aid, that image is quickly changing. Local professionals are running projects; not only this, but their expertise is increasingly sought after – even more so than their expat counterparts.
As these professionals build up valuable experience and expertise, many of them want to apply their skills and knowledge on a global scale and are looking to work outside of their home country. Called by some “third country nationals,” these professionals are neither from the donor country nor the recipient country, which provides a unique set of challenges when looking for opportunities.
