A national researcher to assess Protection of Vulnerable Groups

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, sustainable development, and resilience to crises. UNDP has a significant presence in Vietnam, where it collaborates with local partners to implement projects that align with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The position of a national researcher to assess the Protection of Vulnerable Groups is crucial for understanding and improving the legal frameworks surrounding vulnerable populations in Vietnam. The researcher will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive assessment of the existing laws, including the Criminal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Law on Execution of Criminal Judgments, particularly in cases involving serious crimes. This role requires the researcher to develop a structured report that reflects the findings of the assessment, ensuring that it is informed by consultations with relevant stakeholders, including government entities and UNDP partners. The researcher will also be expected to engage in technical discussions and workshops to present findings and gather feedback, ultimately leading to a finalized report that will contribute to policy recommendations and improvements in the protection of vulnerable groups.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The national researcher will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Developing a detailed report proposal based on consultations with relevant government counterparts and stakeholders.
• Drafting the initial version of the Assessment Report, ensuring that it captures the necessary legal and social contexts.
• Actively participating in technical meetings with UNDP and other partners to discuss findings and gather insights.
• Preparing for and presenting at the Consultant Workshop, where findings will be shared and discussed with a broader audience.
• Finalizing the Assessment Report by incorporating feedback from UNDP and government partners, ensuring that the final document is comprehensive and actionable.
• Submitting the final report to UNDP within the agreed timeline, adhering to the standards of quality and thoroughness expected by the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in law, social sciences, or a related field, with a focus on human rights or criminal justice. They should have demonstrated experience in conducting legal assessments or research, particularly in the context of vulnerable populations. Familiarity with the Vietnamese legal system and the ability to engage with government officials and stakeholders is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly are also required. Additionally, candidates should have experience in report writing and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Master's degree in Law, Social Sciences, Human Rights, or a related field is required. Candidates with a PhD or equivalent experience in relevant areas will be given preference. Academic qualifications should be complemented by practical experience in legal research or assessments, particularly in contexts involving vulnerable groups.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in legal research, policy analysis, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of human rights or criminal justice, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully completing similar assessments or research projects, showcasing their ability to deliver high-quality work within set deadlines.

Languages:
Fluency in Vietnamese is mandatory, as the researcher will be working closely with local stakeholders and government entities. Proficiency in English is also required, as the final report will need to be presented in English and may involve communication with international partners. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the local context may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The assignment is expected to last for 56 working days, commencing in August and concluding by December 31, 202

• This is a consultancy position under the UNDP procurement process, and candidates must submit their proposals through the designated supplier portal. The role is part-time, with flexibility in working hours, but candidates should be prepared to meet deadlines and participate in scheduled meetings and workshops. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and in line with UNDP standards.