Local Consultant to Develop a White Paper on Victimless Prosecution

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in about 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, and has a workforce of over 17,000 employees worldwide.

Job Overview:
The position of Local Consultant to Develop a White Paper on Victimless Prosecution involves conducting comprehensive research and analysis on the topic of victimless prosecution, which refers to legal actions taken against individuals for offenses that do not directly harm another person. The consultant will be expected to gather data, review existing literature, and engage with stakeholders to formulate a well-structured white paper that outlines the implications, challenges, and potential reforms related to victimless prosecution. The assignment is set to commence in January 2026 and conclude in November 2026, requiring the consultant to deliver a thorough and insightful document that can inform policy discussions and legal frameworks in the Maldives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Conducting a literature review on victimless prosecution, including relevant laws, case studies, and international best practices.
• Engaging with legal experts, policymakers, and community stakeholders to gather diverse perspectives on the implications of victimless prosecution.
• Analyzing the socio-economic impacts of victimless prosecution on individuals and communities.
• Drafting the white paper, ensuring it is well-organized, clear, and accessible to a broad audience.
• Presenting findings and recommendations to UNDP and relevant stakeholders.
• Incorporating feedback from UNDP and stakeholders into the final document.
• Adhering to the timeline and deliverables as outlined in the assignment agreement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in law, social sciences, or a related field, with a focus on criminal justice or human rights. Proven experience in research and policy analysis is essential, along with excellent writing and communication skills. Familiarity with the legal system in the Maldives and previous work with international organizations or NGOs will be considered an asset. The consultant should demonstrate the ability to work independently and manage time effectively to meet deadlines.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Master's degree in Law, Social Sciences, Public Policy, or a related field is required. Candidates with a PhD or equivalent experience in relevant areas will be preferred. Academic qualifications should be complemented by practical experience in research and policy development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in legal research, policy analysis, or consultancy work, particularly in the context of criminal justice or human rights. Experience working with international organizations, especially in developing countries, will be highly regarded. The consultant should have a proven track record of producing high-quality written reports and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the white paper will be drafted in English. Knowledge of Dhivehi, the local language of the Maldives, is an advantage but not required. Proficiency in other languages may also be beneficial, depending on the consultant's background and experience.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an individual contractor role, and the contract duration is from January 2026 to November 202

• The consultant is expected to work on a full-time basis during this period, with flexibility in working hours as needed. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, and the consultant will be responsible for their own taxes and benefits. The recruitment process is open to both national and international candidates.