Individual Consultant to Conduct a Legal, Policy and Gender Review of Land Governance

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting is made by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through the sustainable development of nations. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, poverty reduction, crisis prevention and recovery, environment and energy, and women's empowerment. UNDP is committed to promoting gender equality and ensuring that women have equal rights and opportunities in all aspects of life.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Consultant to Conduct a Legal, Policy and Gender Review of Land Governance involves a comprehensive analysis of the legal and policy frameworks governing land in Eswatini. The consultant will be tasked with conducting a desk review of existing legislation, regulations, and policies related to land governance, including the Constitution of the Kingdom of Eswatini and the draft National Land Policy. The consultant will also analyze the coherence and consistency of these legal instruments and assess their alignment with international and regional frameworks on human rights and gender equality. A significant focus will be placed on gender and social inclusion, examining how current laws and policies address women's land rights and the barriers faced by vulnerable groups. The consultant will engage in stakeholder consultations to gather insights and validate findings, ensuring that the voices of women and youth are included in the process. The ultimate goal is to provide actionable recommendations for legal and policy reforms that enhance gender-responsive land governance in Eswatini.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks, including: conducting a desk review of relevant legal documents and policies; analyzing the coherence of land-related legal and policy instruments; assessing gender equality and women's land rights within existing frameworks; identifying barriers faced by marginalized groups in accessing land; selecting case studies for practical analysis; consulting with stakeholders, including government ministries, traditional authorities, and civil society organizations; and developing clear recommendations for legal and policy reforms. The consultant will also be expected to produce an inception report outlining the methodology and stakeholder engagement approach, as well as draft and final reports detailing the findings and recommendations of the review.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Law, Land Governance, Public Policy, Gender Studies, Natural Resource Management, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of relevant working experience is required, including demonstrated expertise in legal and policy analysis. At least 2 years of experience in gender equality and social inclusion, particularly in the context of land governance, is essential. Proven experience in conducting gender analysis and integrating findings into actionable recommendations is also necessary. Strong analytical, drafting, and communication skills are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Law, Land Governance, Public Policy, Gender Studies, or Natural Resource Management. This educational background is essential to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the legal and policy frameworks that govern land and gender issues in Eswatini.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of working experience, with at least 2 years specifically focused on gender equality and social inclusion in relation to land governance. Experience in legal and policy analysis, particularly in the context of land and natural resources, is critical. Familiarity with gender analysis methodologies and the ability to conduct consultations in SiSwati or with local research support is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in SiSwati is highly advantageous. The ability to conduct consultations and present findings in both languages will enhance the effectiveness of the consultant's work and ensure meaningful engagement with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a period of 35 days. Proposals must be submitted directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. The consultant is required to apply a do-no-harm approach during fieldwork, ensuring the confidentiality and safety of participants, especially women discussing sensitive issues. The role is part-time and involves international recruitment, with a focus on ensuring gender-responsive and inclusive land governance.