Terms of Reference (TOR)

A Professional Consultancy Service

Title: Researcher Consultant  

Research: The Role of ADR Centres in overcoming and ensuring inclusion of vulnerable groups.

Location: Somaliland, with easter region travel

Program: DAMAL Programme 

1.      ABOUT NAFIS NETWORK

Network against FGM/C in Somaliland (NAFIS) is a non-political, non-governmental and humanitarian network. NAFIS was established in November 2006 in Hargeisa, Somaliland, by several local NGOs working to eradicate FGM/C. Currently, NAFIS has 20 member organizations operating in all the regions of Somaliland. As the only nationwide network of its kind, the primary purpose of NAFIS is to combat all forms of FGM/C in Somaliland through coordination and networking, policy framework, research, documentation, and capacity building for the key stakeholders and media awareness.

2.      ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

The NAFIS network, in close collaboration International Development Law Organization (IDLO) and the Ministry of Justice (MOJ), is promoting Access to Justice by establishing and operationalizing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centres in Hargeisa, Togdheer, Las-Anood, and Erigavo under the Program ‘Strengthening the Social Contract through Access to Justice in Somaliland’ funded by the Government of the Netherlands. The program aims to foster the social contract in Somaliland by increasing the legitimacy of justice institutions. The overall goal of the program is expected to be achieved through three (3) intermediate outcomes: (1) improved access to an Alternative Dispute Resolution(ADR) mechanism and referral pathways, especially for vulnerable groups; (2) enhanced access to formal justice for vulnerable groups through holistic support to gender-based violence (GBV) survivors and affected communities; and (3) increased participation of citizens in Somaliland in accountability processes relating to the provision of security and justice. The specific mandate of each Centre is to facilitate the practice of ADR and settle claims and disputes at the community level, facilitating and increasing access to justice for the local population, particularly vulnerable categories.

3.      PURPOSE OF THE CONSULTANCY 

Scope of work

The Consultant is being commissioned to support the ADR Centre's Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI)approach, using the GESI toolkit developed by the Damal programme. Using the GESI Analytical Framework, the purpose of the GESI process is to:

·         Improve, monitor, and assess progress in implementing ADR Centres GESI.

·         Identify the strengths, challenges, and opportunities to improve the ADR Centre’s work on gender equality and inclusion.

·         Define concrete steps for improvements and develop a Gender Equality and Inclusion Action Plan for the Damal programme.

The specific objectives are to:

·         Evaluate the institutionalization of gender equality and inclusion within ADR Centres, including implementing policies, developing structures, recruitment processes, budget allocations, and communications.

·         Assess to what extent our programming and influence benefit marginalized groups in all their diversity. Integrate a gender-transformative approach, including project design, budgeting, implementation, MEAL, and advocacy and influence outputs.

·         Document good practices, policies, and related support systems around addressing inequalities and exclusion.

·         Provide baseline data on PIB’s existing gender equality and inclusion work and

·         Set priorities for action to ensure progress in implementing the Damal programme GESI.

ROLE

The consultant will lead the GESI review and the development of a brief paper while working closely with the IDLO programme coordinator and the IDLO Gender team.

It is expected that the consultant will:

·         Support the finalization of the GESI work plan, including refining the data collection and analysis methodology and providing inputs to finalize data collection tools that the ADR center’s GESI focal points have prepared.

·         Lead the data collection process, including a review of a sample of documents provided (reports, M&E tools, HR policies, communication material, budgets, etc); and consultations through interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires with staff, key partners, and board members.

·         Analyse the data and validate the findings with ADR Centers’s GESI focal points.

·         Formulate recommendations based on the findings.

·         Produce a final GESI brief paper that is high quality,

·         Facilitate a restitution workshop with all Damal programme and ADR Centres staff using a participatory approach.

DURATION OF THE ASSIGNMENT

The research is expected to be completed within a timeframe of 30 days, starting from the date of contract signing. The tentative timeline is as follows:

DELIVERABLES

The consultant will be expected to submit the following deliverables:

·         A finalized action plan and methodology for the implementation of the Damal programme GESI.

·         Data collection tools.

·         A high-quality final GESI brief paper documenting the methodology, the findings, and strong, actionable recommendations.

·         A validation workshop for the Damal programme GESI action plan and GESI brief paper.

SELECTION CRITERIA

The selection criteria will include availability, relevant previous experience, and the quality of work in similar assignments.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Education

• A postgraduate degree (master’s or Ph.D.) in a relevant field such as law, social sciences, human rights, or conflict resolution.

Experience

• Previous experience in conducting field research and engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, community members, and local leaders.
• Experience working in conflict-affected or fragile contexts, preferably with a focus on climate change and peacebuilding.
• Ability to navigate and work effectively in challenging field conditions, including remote and insecure areas. Good understanding of database design, implementation, troubleshooting, and maintenance

SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION

Interested candidates are requested to submit an electronic application to [email protected]. not later than 25th Jun 2024. 

Submission package

·         Cover Letter: A letter from the applicant introducing themselves, expressing their interest in the research position, and highlighting their relevant qualifications and experience.

·         Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: A comprehensive document outlining the applicant's educational background, work experience, research experience, publications (if any), skills, and references.

·         Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from the applicant's educational institutions, demonstrating their academic performance and relevant coursework.

·         Research Proposal: A document outlining the applicant's proposed research plan, including objectives, methodology, research questions, and potential contributions to the field.

·         Writing Samples: Examples of the applicant's written work, such as research papers, reports, or articles, demonstrating their ability to analyze and communicate ideas effectively.

·         References: Contact information or letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the applicant's qualifications, research skills, and work ethic.

·         Certificates or Training: Any relevant certificates or training the applicant has completed, such as courses or workshops related to research methods, conflict resolution, Human rights, law, or access to justice.