National consultant to Conduct baseline risk assessment on electoral violence prevention in Ethiopia

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network established in 196

• UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience. UNDP aims to empower lives and build resilient nations by supporting countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant involves conducting a baseline risk assessment on electoral violence prevention in Ethiopia. The consultant will be responsible for analyzing the current electoral landscape, identifying potential risks associated with electoral violence, and making recommendations for establishing an Election Early Warning and Response (EEWR) system. This role is crucial in ensuring that the electoral process in Ethiopia is conducted in a peaceful and fair manner, thereby contributing to the overall stability and democratic governance of the country. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners, to gather data and insights necessary for the assessment. The findings from this assessment will be instrumental in shaping strategies and interventions aimed at mitigating electoral violence and enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Consultant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Conducting thorough research and analysis on the electoral context in Ethiopia, focusing on historical instances of electoral violence and current risk factors.
• Engaging with key stakeholders, including electoral management bodies, political parties, civil society organizations, and community leaders, to gather qualitative data and insights.
• Developing a detailed methodology for the baseline risk assessment, ensuring that it is culturally sensitive and contextually relevant.
• Preparing a comprehensive report that outlines the findings of the risk assessment, including identified risks, vulnerabilities, and recommendations for the EEWR system.
• Presenting the findings to relevant stakeholders and facilitating discussions on the implementation of recommendations.
• Collaborating with UNDP and other partners to ensure that the assessment aligns with national priorities and international best practices in electoral violence prevention.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess a strong background in political science, conflict resolution, or a related field. Additionally, the following qualifications are required:

• Proven experience in conducting risk assessments, particularly in the context of electoral processes.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable recommendations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with the political and social landscape of Ethiopia, particularly regarding electoral issues.
• Knowledge of international standards and best practices in electoral violence prevention and response.

Educational Background:
Candidates should hold at least a Master’s degree in political science, international relations, conflict studies, or a related field. A PhD in a relevant discipline would be an advantage. Additionally, specialized training in electoral processes or conflict prevention would be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in conducting assessments, research, or evaluations related to electoral processes, conflict prevention, or governance. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of UNDP or similar agencies, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Ethiopian electoral system and previous experience in the region will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in Amharic or other local languages is highly desirable, as it will facilitate engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the quality of the assessment.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Consultant role, which means that applicants must be citizens or residents of Ethiopia. The contract duration is for 30 working days over a period of 2 months, allowing for flexibility in scheduling. The consultant will be expected to work primarily from Addis Ababa, with potential travel to other regions as necessary for stakeholder engagement and data collection. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and in line with UNDP's policies for consultants.