International Consultant - Legal Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through the sustainable development of nations. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and aims to empower lives and build resilient nations. UNDP has a significant presence in the Pacific region, including the Solomon Islands, where it collaborates with local governments and communities to implement development projects and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The International Consultant - Legal Adviser will play a crucial role in providing high-level legal expertise and technical assistance to the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), Electoral Reform Team (ERT), and the Solomon Islands Electoral Office (SIEO). This position is pivotal in advancing the legal reform agenda as outlined in Strategic Pillar 5 of the SIEC Strategic Plan for 2024-202

• The consultant will be expected to engage in various legal tasks, including the analysis and drafting of electoral legislation and regulations, which may involve amendments to the Electoral Act and related laws. The role also encompasses the development of policy papers and legislative drafting instructions, particularly in priority areas such as voter residency, out-of-country voting, and electoral dispute resolution. The consultant will facilitate stakeholder consultations and workshops, aiming to build consensus and garner support for the proposed legal reforms. Additionally, the consultant will provide technical guidance to ensure that the legal reforms align with international electoral standards and best practices, while also supporting the SIEC in coordinating with relevant government ministries, parliamentary committees, and development partners throughout the legal reform processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the International Consultant - Legal Adviser include:

• Conducting comprehensive legal analysis and providing drafting support for electoral legislation and regulations, including necessary amendments to the Electoral Act.
• Assisting in the development of policy papers and legislative drafting instructions for priority electoral areas such as voter residency, out-of-country voting, and electoral dispute resolution.
• Facilitating stakeholder consultations, workshops, and parliamentary engagements to build consensus and support for legal reforms.
• Providing technical guidance on aligning legal reforms with international electoral standards and best practices.
• Supporting the SIEC in coordinating with relevant government ministries, parliamentary committees, and development partners on legal reform processes.
• Engaging with various stakeholders to ensure that the legal reform agenda is effectively communicated and understood.
• Preparing reports and documentation related to the legal reform process and presenting findings to relevant stakeholders.
• Ensuring that all legal advice and documentation are compliant with national laws and international standards.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a qualified legal professional with extensive experience in electoral law and legal reform processes. Candidates must possess a strong understanding of international electoral standards and best practices. Additionally, the consultant should have proven experience in legislative drafting and policy development, particularly in the context of electoral systems. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to promoting democratic governance and electoral integrity.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a law degree from a recognized institution, with a specialization in electoral law, public law, or a related field. Advanced degrees such as a Master's or equivalent in law or public policy are highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have relevant certifications or training in electoral processes and legal reform.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5-7 years of professional experience in legal advisory roles, particularly in the context of electoral law and reform. Experience working with governmental or intergovernmental organizations, especially in the Pacific region, is an advantage. Familiarity with the legal and political landscape of the Solomon Islands or similar contexts will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language for this position. Knowledge of local languages or dialects spoken in the Solomon Islands would be considered an asset, as it may facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as an individual contractor role, with an assignment period of 60 working days over a span of 3 months. The consultant will be expected to submit proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. The role is part-time and may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate stakeholder engagements and consultations. Compensation details will be provided upon selection, and the consultant will be expected to adhere to UNDP's procurement and contracting policies.