Individual consultant (International) On providing technical assistance to strengthening of the gender equality promotion system and mechanisms in judicial proceedings

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency for reproductive health, established to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA aims to end unmet needs for family planning, preventable maternal deaths, and gender-based violence by 203

• The organization plays a vital role in promoting human rights and gender equality in Turkmenistan, providing technical support to the government in implementing national strategies and commitments related to gender equality and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). UNFPA operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to these goals.

Job Overview:
The position of the International Consultant is crucial for bridging the gap between Turkmenistan's international commitments under CEDAW and its national judicial practices. The consultant will provide technical assistance to strengthen the gender equality promotion system and mechanisms within judicial proceedings. This role involves enhancing the capacity of judicial staff, law enforcement officers, and public officials regarding the implementation of CEDAW obligations. The consultant will also be responsible for developing training manuals, conducting seminars, and providing recommendations based on international best practices. The overarching goal is to eliminate systemic barriers that prevent women and girls from accessing justice, particularly in cases of domestic violence and discrimination. The consultant will work closely with the Supreme Court of Turkmenistan and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the Work Plan for 2026-2027, which aims to improve gender-sensitive judicial proceedings and enhance the overall judicial system's responsiveness to gender issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The International Consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Enhancing CEDAW-related knowledge by researching best practices and developing a training manual for judiciary staff and law enforcement officers.
• Conducting thematic seminars to improve the skills of key judicial officers on the implementation of CEDAW obligations.
• Conducting desk research to prepare recommendations for data collection on discrimination against women.
• Providing technical support for integrating Family Judges and Family Psychologists into the judicial system.
• Developing a methodological guide for training family psychologists within the judicial framework.
• Compiling recommendations for a digital application to facilitate claims and document submissions in judicial practice.
• Reporting biweekly to the UNFPA Programme Analyst on progress and challenges encountered during the consultancy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in Human Rights, Law, Women’s Rights, Gender Studies, State Service, or a related field. Additionally, applicants should have at least 7 years of relevant experience in family courts, gender-based violence, and sexual and reproductive health. A strong understanding of gender issues and international experience in developing programs and training materials related to CEDAW application in courts is essential. Prior experience in Turkmenistan and Central Asia is considered an asset. Excellent English speaking and writing skills are mandatory, while knowledge of Russian is advantageous. Strong analytical and effective communication skills are also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s Degree in a relevant field such as Human Rights, Law, Women’s Rights, Gender Studies, or State Service. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of gender equality and judicial processes, as well as for developing effective training materials and recommendations.

Experience:
The consultant must have a minimum of 7 years of experience in areas related to family courts, gender-based violence, and sexual and reproductive health. This experience should include a strong knowledge of gender issues and international best practices in developing programs and training materials related to CEDAW application in judicial contexts. Experience working in Turkmenistan or Central Asia will be viewed favorably, as it indicates familiarity with the local legal and cultural landscape.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both spoken and written. Knowledge of Russian is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract will last for 26 working days, from June 22, 2026, to November 30, 202

• The consultant will work from home but will be required to undertake one mission to Turkmenistan. All deliverables must be submitted electronically. The consultancy fee will be based on the P4 level of the UN Salary Scale for Professional and higher categories, effective January 1, 2026, and will be paid in two installments upon successful completion of deliverables. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.