Consultant for National Preventive Mechanism (NPM)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Ombudsperson Institute, which is dedicated to the protection and promotion of human rights in Kyrgyzstan. Established to ensure compliance with international human rights standards, the organization plays a crucial role in monitoring places of deprivation of liberty and advocating for the rights of individuals. The Ombudsperson Institute operates with a mission to prevent torture and ill-treatment, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, are treated with dignity and respect. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals and collaborates with civil society experts to enhance its effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate. It is involved in various initiatives aimed at strengthening the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) in line with the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT).

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant for the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) involves a comprehensive role in developing monitoring methodologies and tools for various places of deprivation of liberty in Kyrgyzstan. The consultant will work closely with the Ombudsperson Institute and civil society experts to create draft Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that align with the OPCAT requirements. The consultant is expected to coordinate the establishment of thematic working groups, conduct consultative meetings, and facilitate the development of monitoring methodologies. This role requires a strong understanding of the NPM's objectives and the ability to mentor and guide staff in implementing effective monitoring practices. The consultant will also be responsible for training newly hired NPM staff and ensuring that the monitoring methodologies are piloted and refined based on practical experiences. The expected duration of this consultancy is four months, during which the consultant will play a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity of the Ombudsperson Institute to fulfill its mandate effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties and responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with the Ombudsperson Institute to develop draft monitoring methodologies and tools for all types of places of deprivation of liberty, ensuring compliance with OPCAT.
• Coordinating the establishment of six thematic working groups composed of relevant staff and civil society experts.
• Developing rules of procedure for the working groups and preparing their work plans.
• Organizing briefings to raise awareness about the NPM's mandate and objectives.
• Guiding and mentoring working group members during meetings and facilitating expert inputs.
• Supporting the Ombudsperson Institute in mapping places of deprivation of liberty in Kyrgyzstan.
• Organizing consultations and presentations to discuss initial draft methodologies and tools.
• Training newly hired NPM staff on monitoring methodologies and mentoring them during pilot visits.
• Advising on key activities relevant to the national Action Plan on Concluding Observations of the UN Committee against Torture. 1
• Developing initial drafts of documents, including SOPs, to ensure effective implementation of the NPM mandate. 1
• Providing recommendations on financial, human, and logistical aspects of NPM functioning. 1
• Preparing monitoring findings and analysis after visits and advising on public reporting.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in areas related to torture prevention, protection of victims of torture, and capacity building of National Human Rights Institutions, particularly National Preventive Mechanisms. Proven legal expertise in the prevention of torture, monitoring, documentation, and investigation of torture and ill-treatment is essential. Strong analytical and drafting skills, particularly in developing SOPs, are desirable. Excellent facilitation, teamwork, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills are also required to effectively collaborate with various stakeholders and ensure successful implementation of the NPM's objectives.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not detailed in the job description, it is generally expected that candidates possess a relevant degree in law, human rights, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in human rights law, torture prevention, or related areas would be advantageous and enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, demonstrating a progressive responsibility in the fields of torture prevention and the functioning of National Preventive Mechanisms. Experience in capacity building for National Human Rights Institutions and a strong understanding of the OPCAT framework are critical. The consultant should also have a proven track record of developing monitoring methodologies and tools, as well as experience in conducting training and mentoring activities.

Languages:
The job description does not specify mandatory languages; however, proficiency in English and Russian is likely essential given the context of the position in Kyrgyzstan. Knowledge of Kyrgyz would be an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for four months, and the position may involve both full-time and part-time commitments depending on the workload and project requirements. The consultant will not be charged any fees during the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage. The role is focused on national engagement, emphasizing the importance of local expertise and collaboration with national institutions.