Consultant for Case Study on Migration and DLDD

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to encompass 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration, including humanitarian assistance, development, and policy advocacy, aiming to ensure that migration is safe, dignified, and beneficial for both migrants and host communities. IOM's mission is to provide services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike, addressing the challenges and opportunities that migration presents in a globalized world.

Job Overview:
The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Migration, Environment, Climate Change and Risk Reduction Department. The primary function of this role is to support the production of a comprehensive case study that examines the impacts of desertification, land degradation, and drought (DLDD) on the migration patterns and mobility outcomes of small-holder farmers and traditional herder communities in Nepal. The consultant will engage with various experts and thematic specialists from IOM and UN Habitat to gather insights and data necessary for the case study. The project aims to highlight the intricate relationship between environmental degradation and human mobility, particularly in the context of Nepal's unique ecological and socio-economic landscape. The consultant is expected to analyze existing research, identify critical gaps, and propose actionable recommendations for policy and practice that can enhance mobility outcomes for affected communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a thorough case study that reviews the interactions between DLDD and human mobility in Nepal. This includes:

• Analyzing the drivers of mobility among herder communities and small-holder subsistence farmers, focusing on how DLDD and policy settings influence migration patterns.
• Assessing the socio-economic outcomes of mobility for vulnerable groups, particularly those moving from rural to urban areas.
• Developing a draft outline of the case study within one week of commencing the consultancy.
• Submitting a draft case study and recommendations for review by IOM and UN Habitat within four weeks of outline approval.
• Finalizing the case study and recommendations based on feedback received, ensuring that all deliverables meet the quality standards expected by the organization.
• Engaging with stakeholders to gather insights and validate findings throughout the research process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as political or social sciences, international relations, migration, environment, law, or a related discipline. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, particularly in research design and implementation, evaluations, or institutional reviews. Knowledge of thematic issues related to migration and climate change, as well as familiarity with the UN system and IOM, will be considered advantageous. Strong research, analytical, coordination, and liaison skills are essential, along with excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant subject area. This could encompass fields such as political science, social sciences, international relations, migration studies, environmental studies, law, or any related discipline that provides a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of migration and environmental issues. The educational qualifications should be complemented by practical experience in the field, ensuring that the consultant can effectively contribute to the objectives of the consultancy.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience in the design and implementation of research projects, evaluations, or institutional reviews. This experience should ideally include a focus on migration and climate change, as well as an understanding of planned relocation processes. Familiarity with the UN system and IOM's operational frameworks will be beneficial, as the consultant will be expected to navigate these contexts effectively. The level of experience should demonstrate a proven track record of delivering high-quality research outputs and engaging with diverse stakeholders in the field of migration and environmental studies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within IOM. Candidates will be evaluated on their proficiency in English during the selection process, which may include written and oral assessments. While English is required, knowledge of additional languages such as French or Spanish, which are also official languages of IOM, would be considered an asset and could enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is categorized as a Category B Consultancy, indicating a specific level of expertise and responsibility. The contract duration is tied to the completion of the case study, with key deliverables outlined and specific timelines for submission. The final deliverable is expected no later than 8 December 202

• Travel is not required for this position, allowing the consultant to focus on research and analysis from a remote or local base. It is important to note that any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation, and the appointment will require certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, and necessary government authorizations. IOM provides coverage for occupational accidents and illnesses but does not offer evacuation or medical insurance for non-occupational incidents. Consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance and must provide proof of coverage prior to commencing work.