International Consultant on Political Party Financing

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. Established in 1997, UNODC operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to promoting justice, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and human rights. The organization aims to assist member states in their efforts to combat drug trafficking, corruption, and organized crime, while also supporting the implementation of international legal instruments and fostering cooperation among nations. UNODC's mission is to contribute to global peace and security by addressing the challenges posed by drugs and crime, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant on Political Party Financing is crucial for supporting the UNODC's mandate to enhance transparency and accountability in political financing, particularly in African nations. The consultant will be responsible for conducting comprehensive reviews of existing legislation and practices related to political party financing in selected countries, including Malawi, Namibia, and Zambia. This role involves drafting a regional study report that outlines recommendations for improving political finance integrity, as well as providing targeted technical assistance to various stakeholders. The consultant will work closely with UNODC and its partners to ensure that the implementation of UNCAC Resolution 11/7 is effectively carried out, thereby contributing to the strengthening of legal and institutional frameworks governing political party financing. The consultant's work will also include organizing forums and training sessions to facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building among stakeholders, ensuring that the objectives of the project are met and that political financing reforms are successfully implemented.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including conducting desk research and fieldwork to gather information on existing political party financing laws and practices. They will engage with stakeholders such as Parliament representatives, Electoral Commissions, and civil society organizations to assess the current landscape of political financing. The consultant will be responsible for drafting a regional study report that includes recommendations for enhancing transparency and accountability in political party financing. Additionally, they will provide advisory support to select African countries, helping to develop and implement political party financing legislation and regulations. The consultant will facilitate workshops and training sessions, promote inter-agency cooperation, and ensure that the activities align with the goals of the UNODC and its partners. The expected deliverables include a comprehensive study report, targeted technical support packages, and detailed reports summarizing stakeholder consultations and legislative reviews.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as criminology, law, public policy, economics, finance, political science, or criminal justice. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. A minimum of ten years of professional experience in anti-corruption, governance, or integrity sectors is required, along with proven expertise in electoral integrity and transparency. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of capacity development in the governance and rule of law sector in Africa, as well as experience in conducting needs assessments and developing programs to enhance electoral integrity. Strong analytical, communication, and report writing skills are essential, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in diverse environments.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as criminology, law, public policy, economics, finance, political science, or criminal justice. A first-level university degree in similar fields, combined with additional qualifying experience, may also be considered acceptable. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of political party financing and the legal frameworks that govern it.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of professional experience in areas related to anti-corruption, governance, and rule of law enforcement. Candidates should have a proven track record in electoral integrity and transparency, as well as experience in capacity development within the governance sector in Africa. Experience in conducting needs assessments and developing programs aimed at enhancing electoral integrity is also essential. The ability to work independently and effectively in challenging environments is desirable, along with experience in reporting to senior government officials on sensitive issues related to political party financing.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French, another official language of the UN, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders in the context of political party financing.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last from August 1, 2026, to December 31, 202

• The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and equitable for all candidates. This role is part of a broader initiative to strengthen political party financing integrity in Africa, with a focus on collaboration and alignment with existing efforts in the region.