National Consultant to Develop Guidelines on Legislative Development

National Consultant to Develop Guidelines on Legislative Development

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

October 2, 2026September 26, 2026Sri Lanka
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted 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 sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a mission to empower lives and build resilient nations.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant will be responsible for developing comprehensive guidelines on legislative development as part of the Support to Justice Sector-JURE Project. This role requires a deep understanding of legislative processes and the ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical guidelines that can be utilized by stakeholders in the justice sector. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government officials, legal experts, and civil society organizations, to ensure that the guidelines are relevant, effective, and aligned with international best practices. The position is expected to last for 40 days over a period of 6 months, allowing for flexibility in scheduling and deliverables. The consultant will also be expected to engage in consultations and discussions to gather input and feedback on the guidelines being developed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with the following duties and responsibilities:
  • Conduct a thorough analysis of existing legislative frameworks and identify gaps and areas for improvement.
  • Engage with stakeholders to gather insights and perspectives on legislative needs and priorities.
  • Develop a draft of the guidelines on legislative development, ensuring clarity, coherence, and accessibility.
  • Facilitate workshops and meetings to present the draft guidelines and solicit feedback from stakeholders.
  • Revise the guidelines based on feedback received and finalize the document for approval.
  • Prepare a report summarizing the process, findings, and recommendations for future legislative development initiatives.
  • Ensure that all deliverables are submitted on time and in accordance with UNDP standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in law, public policy, or a related field, with a focus on legislative processes. They should have demonstrated experience in developing legal frameworks or guidelines, preferably within the context of justice sector reform. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders are essential. Additionally, candidates should have excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Sinhala/Tamil, as these languages are crucial for effective engagement with local stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Master's degree in Law, Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field is required. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree in these areas may be considered if they have substantial relevant experience. Specialized training or certifications in legislative development or public administration will be an advantage.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of professional experience in legislative development, legal analysis, or a related field. Experience working with government institutions, international organizations, or civil society in Sri Lanka is highly desirable. Familiarity with the local legal context and legislative processes will be critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, along with fluency in either Sinhala or Tamil. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is open only to Sri Lankan individuals, and submissions from organizations or non-nationals will not be considered. The contract duration is for 40 days within a 6-month period, and the consultant will be classified as an Individual Contractor. The role is expected to be part-time, allowing for flexibility in scheduling. Interested candidates must submit their proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. Compensation details and benefits will be discussed upon selection.