Individual consultant (International) on providing technical assistance to strengthening the system and mechanisms to promote gender equality in legislation

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 is committed to ending unmet needs for family planning, preventable maternal deaths, and gender-based violence by the year 203

• The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on human rights and gender equality, and provides technical support to governments in implementing national strategies and commitments related to gender equality and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The position of the International Consultant involves providing technical assistance to the Mejlis of Turkmenistan to strengthen the legislative framework promoting gender equality and ensuring the well-being and human rights of women and men, girls and boys. The consultant will support the implementation of the national strategy on gender equality and the National Action Plan on Gender Equality, which includes addressing alarming statistics related to gender-based violence and discrimination against women. The consultant will work closely with the Mejlis to develop legal recommendations, conduct workshops, and facilitate consultations to improve legislation related to family well-being and gender equality. This role is crucial in responding to the recommendations from the CEDAW Committee and ensuring that Turkmenistan's legislation aligns with international standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for drafting comprehensive legal recommendations, proposing statutory amendments, and regulatory corrections in alignment with CEDAW Concluding Observations. They will review existing legislative codes and develop commentaries to facilitate the implementation of laws in the best interests of women. The consultant will compile and present international best practices and conduct a 3-day mission to facilitate workshops for the GBV Legislation Working Group. They will provide ongoing remote technical assistance and legal advisory support, ensuring that all legislative proposals prioritize survivor safety and comply with international human rights standards. Additionally, the consultant will develop policy briefs and training packages for Mejlis members and local governance officials to enhance their understanding and execution of GBV prevention policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Law, Human Rights, Women's Rights, Gender Studies, or related fields. They should have at least 7 years of experience in developing, implementing, and monitoring legislation related to gender equality. A strong understanding of capacity building and experience working in the CIS or Central Asia, particularly in Turkmenistan, is advantageous. Excellent written and spoken English skills are mandatory, while knowledge of Russian is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication and training skills, a focus on results, and the ability to work under pressure in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in Law, Human Rights, Women's Rights, Gender Studies, or other related fields is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of the legal frameworks surrounding gender equality and human rights.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in the development, implementation, and monitoring of legislation aimed at promoting gender equality. Candidates should have a proven track record of providing advisory support and developing strategies to ensure gender equality through laws and action plans. Experience in capacity building and familiarity with the legislative environment in Turkmenistan or the CIS region is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and spoken communication skills. 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 28 working days, from July 1, 2026, to December 15, 202

• The consultant will work from home but will be required to undertake one 3-day mission to Turkmenistan between September and November 202
• All deliverables must be submitted electronically, and the consultant will report biweekly to the UNFPA Programme Analyst on Gender and Youth. The consultancy fee will be based on the P4 level of the UN Salary Scale for Professional and higher categories, with payments made 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.