Consultant for Institutional Development and Legislative Reform

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional commission established in 1973 to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA's mission is to support the countries of the region in achieving sustainable development through regional cooperation and integration. The organization focuses on various areas including economic development, social development, and environmental sustainability. ESCWA operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, working with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address pressing challenges and promote inclusive growth. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to fostering dialogue and collaboration among member states.

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant for Institutional Development and Legislative Reform is crucial in supporting ESCWA's efforts during Syria's transitional phase. The consultant will contribute to institutional development by sharing experiences and lessons learned, as well as assisting with necessary legal reforms. The primary aim is to strengthen the capacity of Syria's parliament through the development of detailed briefs, conducting legislative reviews, and providing targeted technical inputs. This role is particularly significant as Syria navigates the complexities of rebuilding its institutional and governance structures following years of conflict. The consultant will engage in reviewing legal frameworks and sharing best practices, ensuring that the work aligns with the evolving needs and priorities of Syrian institutions. The consultant will work remotely and is expected to deliver outputs within a three-month timeframe, focusing on enhancing parliamentary functions and legislative reform.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks under the supervision of the Syria Portfolio Coordinator/NAFS Programme manager. The primary duty includes reviewing and providing recommendations on draft legislation to ensure consistency with international standards. This involves a thorough analysis of existing legal frameworks, identifying gaps, and proposing amendments that align with best practices. The consultant will also be expected to engage in discussions with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback on legislative needs. Additionally, the consultant may be tasked with preparing reports and briefs that summarize findings and recommendations, contributing to the overall goal of enhancing the legislative process in Syria. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve desired outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Law, Political Science, Economics, or a related field. An advanced degree in these areas is highly desirable. All applicants are required to submit a copy of their educational qualifications, as incomplete applications will not be considered. Furthermore, a minimum of 10 years of experience in parliamentary support, legislative reform, or legal advisory roles is essential. Candidates should demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the Syrian conflict and the structure and functioning of Syria's institutions. Established records of publications or contributions to relevant academic or policy-oriented literature are also desirable, showcasing the candidate's expertise and engagement in the field.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in Law, Political Science, Economics, or a related field. An advanced degree in these disciplines is preferred, as it indicates a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex legal and political issues. Candidates must provide proof of their educational qualifications, as this is a critical component of the application process. The emphasis on relevant educational credentials underscores the importance of having a solid theoretical foundation to effectively contribute to the legislative reform efforts in Syria.

Experience:
The position requires a substantial level of experience, specifically a minimum of 10 years in roles related to parliamentary support, legislative reform, or legal advisory capacities. This extensive experience is necessary to ensure that the consultant possesses the requisite knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of Syria's transitional phase. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in similar contexts, demonstrating their ability to provide effective legal and policy advice. Additionally, familiarity with the Syrian conflict and its impact on institutional structures is highly desirable, as it will inform the consultant's approach to the assignment.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is mandatory for this position, as it is a working language of ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four areas of language use: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. The ability to communicate effectively in Arabic is crucial for engaging with local stakeholders and understanding the nuances of the legislative context. Additionally, English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, so proficiency in these languages is considered an asset, although not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of three months. There are no additional notes regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation provided in the job description. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This policy ensures that the recruitment process remains transparent and accessible to all qualified candidates.