Category B Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM's mission includes saving lives and protecting people on the move, driving solutions to displacement, and facilitating pathways for regular migration. The organization is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. IOM operates in numerous countries around the world, providing services and advice to governments and migrants, and aims to better harness the full potential of migration while strengthening its support to people on the move. IOM invites candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process when required.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position involves conducting a Regional Study on Smuggling of Migrants in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), focusing on strengthening data systems and enhancing regional cooperation. The consultant will work remotely with the IOM Regional Office for MENA based in Cairo, Egypt. The consultancy is expected to last for three months, contingent upon medical clearance. The study aims to address the complexities of migrant smuggling in the MENA region, which serves as an origin, transit, and destination hub for mixed migration flows. The consultant will analyze fragmented national data ecosystems that hinder effective policymaking and operational planning. The study will also assess the integration of information on regular migration pathways into national migration data systems, emphasizing the importance of capturing and comparing data on these pathways. Gender considerations will be integrated into the analysis to ensure that vulnerabilities and protection concerns are examined inclusively. The findings will lead to actionable recommendations for improving data governance and institutional coordination, ultimately enhancing regional cooperation mechanisms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for delivering three key reports during the consultancy period. The first deliverable is an Inception Report that outlines the detailed methodology, analytical framework, workplan, and data collection strategy, along with a mapping of national data ecosystems. The second deliverable is a Data Analytical Report that consolidates findings from desk reviews and consultations, mapping smuggling-related and regular pathways data systems, and conducting a comparative analysis of definitions, indicators, and institutional arrangements. The final deliverable is a comprehensive analytical report and policy brief that includes a 60-70 page regional report, policy recommendations for decision-makers, and integrated recommendations on data governance and institutional coordination. The consultant will also participate in a regional dissemination event to present findings and provide technical support during validation workshops.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or higher in Migration Studies, International Relations, Data Science, Sociology, Public Policy, or a related field. They should have a minimum of 7-10 years of experience conducting research on migration, smuggling, protection, or data systems. Demonstrated expertise in migration data governance, institutional mapping, or comparative policy analysis is essential. Experience in conducting multi-country research in complex mobility contexts is required, with a preference for candidates who have experience in the MENA region. Strong analytical, writing, and synthesis skills are necessary, along with familiarity with administrative data, law-enforcement datasets, and regular migration pathways. Candidates should also have experience engaging with government officials, UN agencies, and civil society organizations, and the ability to integrate gender and protection-sensitive approaches in research.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or higher in relevant fields such as Migration Studies, International Relations, Data Science, Sociology, Public Policy, or similar disciplines. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of migration and data systems, as well as for conducting high-level research and analysis.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 7-10 years in relevant fields. This experience should include conducting research on migration, smuggling, protection, or data systems, with a strong emphasis on migration data governance and institutional mapping. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging in multi-country research, particularly in complex mobility contexts, and experience in the MENA region is considered an asset. The consultant should also demonstrate strong analytical and writing skills, as well as the ability to synthesize complex information effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will be required to produce high-quality analytical outputs in English. Good knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the quality of the research conducted in the MENA region.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is categorized as a Type B consultancy and will be compensated on a three-installment payment basis, linked to the completion of deliverables. The consultant will be required to travel for participation in dissemination activities. IOM covers consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan, but does not provide evacuation or medical insurance for non-occupational accidents and illnesses. Consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance and must provide proof of coverage before commencing work. The appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including discrimination and harassment. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.