Consultant for Research Paper on Migrant Human Resources

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is focused on labor migration research and policy development, particularly in the context of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. It aims to enhance the understanding of labor migration dynamics and promote effective policies that protect migrant workers while addressing labor market needs. The organization is involved in various international dialogues and initiatives related to migration, labor standards, and climate mobility, contributing to the Global Compact for Migration and other strategic frameworks.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for developing a comprehensive research paper that explores the design of a regional model aimed at optimizing the use of migrant human resources. This involves facilitating circular pathways and skills development in countries of origin (CoO) and countries of destination (CoD), while ensuring a rights-based approach to labor migration. The research will address the increasing demand for green skills in the GCC, driven by economic diversification and climate change. The consultant will analyze existing legislative frameworks, identify gaps, and propose policy recommendations to enhance labor mobility and skills development, particularly in the context of climate-influenced migration. The research will also involve mapping successful global initiatives and designing a regional platform for job matching and skills development.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a thorough analysis of existing legislative, regulatory, and policy frameworks related to labor migration in the GCC.
• Identify structural reforms necessary for effective circular mobility of migrant workers.
• Assess financial and protection mechanisms related to climate mobility and propose enhancements.
• Map existing global initiatives that link labor mobility with skills development and sustainable investment.
• Develop a model for an online regional circular pathways platform that facilitates job matching and skills development.
• Produce a draft report summarizing findings from the desk review, including gaps and preliminary policy recommendations.
• Submit a final report incorporating feedback from the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
• Collaborate with stakeholders to gather data and insights for the research.
• Present findings and recommendations to relevant stakeholders and contribute to policy dialogues.

Required Qualifications:

• A university degree in Labour Economics, Migration Studies, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Statistics, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• An advanced degree in a related field is considered an advantage.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in labor migration research or wage policy analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• Proven ability to produce analytical reports and policy recommendations for governmental or intergovernmental bodies.
• Familiarity with international labor standards and wage protection mechanisms.
• Experience working with Regional Consultative Processes, UN agencies, or international organizations is a plus.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a relevant field such as Labour Economics, Migration Studies, Public Policy, Social Sciences, or Statistics. An advanced degree in a related discipline is advantageous and may enhance the candidate's profile for this position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in areas related to labor migration research or wage policy analysis. Candidates should have a proven track record in conducting both quantitative and qualitative research, including data collection and comparative analysis across multiple Asian countries. Experience in producing analytical reports and policy recommendations for government or intergovernmental bodies is essential. Familiarity with international labor standards and prior experience with UN agencies or international organizations will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will be required to produce high-quality reports and communicate effectively with stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required for this role.

Additional Notes:
The final hiring decision is contingent upon funding confirmation. The consultant is expected to submit a detailed work plan outlining the research approach, data collection methods, and stakeholder consultation plan as part of the application package. The deliverables include a draft report due by 30 November 2025 and a final report due by 31 December 2025, with specified payment terms upon approval of each deliverable.