International Consultant (PSEA-H International Consultant)

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment. It merges the work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system, focusing on gender equality and women's empowerment. UN Women operates globally, with a significant presence in Afghanistan for over two decades, addressing the unique challenges faced by Afghan women and girls. The organization is committed to eliminating discrimination against women and girls, empowering women, and achieving equality between genders in various sectors, including development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. UN Women Afghanistan has five key program priorities for the period 2023-2027, which include Integrated Programming and Localization, Women's movement building, Policy and Research, Economic Resilience and Private Sector, and Coordination, Access and Humanitarian Response. The organization operates through its main office in Kabul and five sub-offices in the provinces of Balkh, Bamyan, Herat, Kandahar, and Nangarhar, employing a diverse team dedicated to its mission.

Job Overview:
The position of the PSEA-H International Consultant is crucial for providing technical guidance and operational support to UN Women in Afghanistan regarding the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) and sexual harassment (SH). This role involves collaborating closely with the PSEA-H National Consultants and various program teams based in Kabul and regional sub-offices. The consultant will be responsible for conducting assessments of the PSEA capacity of implementing partners, facilitating capacity development activities, and ensuring that all initiatives align with UN Women’s zero-tolerance policy towards SEA and SH. The consultant will also play a key role in supporting the development of training materials, conducting training sessions, and assisting in the planning and implementation of SEA risk assessments across UN Women’s programs. This position requires a strong commitment to gender-sensitive approaches and the ability to work effectively in a challenging environment, ensuring that the needs of Afghan women and girls are prioritized in all activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PSEA-H National Consultant will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including conducting external PSEA Capacity Assessments of existing and new implementing partners, assessing their compliance with PSEA standards, and providing tailored recommendations for improvement. The consultant will facilitate capacity development activities, including reviewing and updating training materials, co-organizing briefing sessions, and conducting trainings for partners and staff on PSEA core principles and reporting channels. Additionally, the consultant will compile PSEA Capacity Self-Assessment forms, maintain records of training conducted, and support the development of annual capacity-building plans. The consultant will also assist in conducting SEA risk assessments, mapping existing prevention and response mechanisms, and ensuring that all activities adhere to survivor-centered and gender-responsive principles. The role requires excellent communication skills, the ability to maintain effective relationships with clients and partners, and a commitment to confidentiality and professionalism.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in social development, gender studies, rule of law, human rights, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A project/programme management certification is considered an advantage. The role demands a strong understanding of PSEA/SH principles, gender-based violence prevention, and humanitarian affairs, along with demonstrated experience in facilitating capacity development activities and trainings. Familiarity with UN PSEA structures and policies is essential, as is experience in conducting partner capacity assessments on PSEA/SH.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree in relevant fields such as social development, gender studies, rule of law, or human rights. Candidates with a first-level university degree and additional qualifying experience may also be considered. A project/programme management certification would be beneficial, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of professional experience in areas related to PSEA/SH, gender-based violence prevention, and humanitarian affairs. Experience working as an in-country PSEA Focal Point or Coordinator is desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record in facilitating capacity development activities and trainings, as well as familiarity with global UN PSEA structures and policies. Demonstrated experience in conducting comprehensive partner capacity assessments on PSEA/SH is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in Dari or Pashto. These language skills are essential for effective communication and collaboration with local partners and stakeholders in Afghanistan.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is home-based with the possibility of travel across Afghanistan. The role is expected to adhere to UN Women’s values and competencies, including integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. The consultant will be required to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate sensitivity regarding gender issues. UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims, including sexual exploitation and abuse, and selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and organizational needs.