NC-Legal and Institutional Gap Analysis for Extended Producer Responsibility

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which was established in 196

• UNDP is a global development network that advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. The organization operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate and disaster resilience, and sustainable development. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The position involves conducting a comprehensive legal and institutional gap analysis for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Laos. The contractor will be responsible for preparing a workplan and conducting an inception phase that includes meetings with key stakeholders such as government agencies, industry representatives, and NGOs. The contractor will review existing national policies and legal frameworks related to EPR and solid waste management, as well as conduct a literature review of international EPR systems. The role requires the development of a detailed methodology for policy gap assessment, stakeholder mapping, and the design of data collection tools. The contractor will also coordinate with government focal points for data access and institutional interviews. The overall goal is to identify legislative and policy gaps, operational challenges, and institutional capacity needs, ultimately leading to recommendations for legal reform and institutional strengthening.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities for this position include:

• Preparation and Inception Phase: Meet with NPAP and key stakeholders, review existing national policies and legal frameworks, conduct a literature review of regional/international EPR systems, develop a detailed methodology for policy gap assessment, and design data collection tools.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Conduct a policy and legal review, analyze how current legislation aligns with EPR principles, conduct structured interviews with various stakeholders, assess stakeholder readiness and perceived barriers, map current waste management system flows, and compare national situations against best-practice countries.
• Gap Identification and Prioritization: Identify legislative and policy gaps, operational challenges, and develop a prioritized list of gaps with justification.
• Validation and Finalization: Present draft findings to stakeholders, collect feedback, revise the report based on comments, and prepare presentation slides summarizing key findings and recommendations. The contractor will also support the organization of a validation workshop.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a strong background in law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, public policy, or a related field. The candidate should possess excellent analytical and research skills, with the ability to conduct comprehensive legal reviews and stakeholder consultations. Strong communication skills are essential for presenting findings and recommendations to diverse audiences. The candidate should also have experience in project management and familiarity with Extended Producer Responsibility frameworks and solid waste management practices. Knowledge of international EPR systems and best practices is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in environmental law, public policy, environmental science, or a related field is required for this position. A PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant area would be an advantage. The educational background should demonstrate a strong understanding of legal frameworks, environmental policies, and sustainable development principles.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in environmental policy analysis, legal research, or project management related to waste management and sustainability. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector in the context of EPR or solid waste management is highly desirable. The candidate should have a proven track record of conducting stakeholder consultations and presenting findings to diverse audiences.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Lao language is an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders. Proficiency in other languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is for an individual contractor and is expected to be completed within 30 working days. The contractor will be required to submit proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the indicated deadline. The role is part-time and may involve remote work, but the contractor must be available for meetings and consultations with stakeholders in Laos. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the contracting process.