National Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established in 1993, OHCHR operates in various countries to ensure that human rights are respected and upheld. The organization works with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address human rights violations and promote accountability. OHCHR employs a diverse workforce of professionals committed to advancing human rights and operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on various issues including child rights, gender equality, and social justice.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant position is focused on contributing to a comprehensive, evidence-based study on violations of children's rights in the Bolama-Bijagós Region of Guinea-Bissau. The consultant will specifically address issues related to sexual exploitation and other forms of violence, abuse, and harmful practices affecting children. The role requires a deep understanding of the national and local context to ensure that the study provides practical recommendations aimed at strengthening prevention measures, child protection mechanisms, and institutional responses. The consultant will work closely with an International Consultant and various stakeholders to gather data, conduct field research, and analyze findings to inform the final report.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Consultant will have a range of responsibilities, including providing contextual inputs on Guinea-Bissau’s child protection framework, supporting the International Consultant in conducting a desk review, and facilitating engagement with local authorities and stakeholders. The consultant will also be responsible for organizing and implementing field research, conducting interviews and focus group discussions, and collecting data as per the workplan. Additionally, the consultant will analyze qualitative and quantitative findings, contribute to report writing, and ensure compliance with ethical standards for research involving children. The role requires timely completion of tasks and contributions to the overall study.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Law, Human Rights, Social Sciences, or Development Studies. A first-level university degree combined with additional relevant professional experience may also be considered. At least five years of relevant professional experience in child protection, human rights, or social research is required, along with a good understanding of the national child protection system and legal framework. Demonstrated experience in field research and stakeholder engagement is essential, as is knowledge of the Bolama-Bijagós Region.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Law, Human Rights, Social Sciences, Sociology, Anthropology, Development Studies, Public Policy, or a related field. Candidates with a first-level university degree and additional relevant professional experience may also be considered, depending on recruitment requirements.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience in areas such as child protection, human rights, social research, or community-based research, particularly within the context of Guinea-Bissau. Experience in conducting field research, interviews, and stakeholder consultations is crucial, as well as familiarity with the national child protection system and relevant institutions.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and Guinea-Bissau Creole is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of English or French is required, which will facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance the consultant's ability to engage in diverse contexts.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for three months, and the consultant will be working under the overall supervision of OHCHR-WARO/PAPEV. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including national and local authorities, civil society organizations, and community leaders. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that the selection is based solely on merit and qualifications.