International Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 197

• Its mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. ESCWA works with member states to formulate policies and strategies that address the challenges facing the region, including economic growth, social justice, and sustainable development. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, focusing on enhancing the capabilities of its member states and fostering partnerships for development. ESCWA employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to advancing the interests of the region and its people.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant is crucial for supporting the implementation of a national guide aimed at integrating the needs and priorities of women into sectoral and local policies and strategies in Iraq. The consultant will play a key role in organizing a national workshop, developing a national guide, and designing a capacity-building program. The overarching goal is to ensure that women's needs are systematically included in development planning, thereby promoting gender equality and social justice. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries and national institutions, to facilitate discussions and gather inputs that will inform the development of the guide. This role requires a deep understanding of gender issues, policy development, and the socio-economic context of Iraq, as well as the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of tasks, including reviewing relevant documents to understand the ministry's mandates and outputs, assisting in the preparation and participation of a national workshop aimed at fostering a shared understanding of the challenges addressed by the initiative, and drafting a national guide that serves as a unified framework for evidence-based development planning. The consultant will also finalize the guide based on feedback from the national workshop and provide inputs for a national capacity-building program designed to enhance institutional mechanisms for integrating women's needs into policies. This contract is part of a collaborative initiative between ESCWA and UN Women, involving multiple interconnected components such as conducting workshops, developing the national guide, and establishing a monitoring mechanism for implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in economics, sociology, law, women's issues, or a related field. All applicants are required to submit a copy of their educational qualifications, as incomplete applications will not be considered. A minimum of eight years of professional experience in social development programs is required, along with prior experience in designing, implementing, and monitoring capacity-building programs, particularly those focused on gender justice. Proven knowledge of key concepts and issues related to women's empowerment and equality, as well as analytical tools related to these topics, is essential. Experience in developing and utilizing indicators for women's empowerment is also required. Previous experience as a trainer or facilitator in national programs is desirable, as is experience working with public institutions and on development issues in the Arab region.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as economics, sociology, law, or women's studies is mandatory for this position. Candidates must provide proof of their educational qualifications as part of their application process. This educational background is critical as it ensures that the consultant has the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively contribute to the development of policies and strategies that promote gender equality and women's empowerment.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of professional experience in social development programs, with a strong emphasis on gender issues. Candidates should have a proven track record in designing and implementing capacity-building initiatives, particularly those that address gender equality and women's empowerment. Experience in monitoring and evaluating such programs is also essential, as is familiarity with the socio-economic context of the Arab region. The consultant should be adept at engaging with various stakeholders, including government entities and civil society organizations, to facilitate collaboration and ensure the successful integration of women's needs into development planning.

Languages:
Fluency in both Arabic and English is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations and ESCWA. Fluency means achieving a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension). Knowledge of French is considered an asset but is not mandatory. The ability to communicate effectively in both Arabic and English is crucial for engaging with stakeholders and ensuring that the needs and priorities of women are adequately represented in policy discussions.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of five months. The consultant will work under the direct supervision of ESCWA, in consultation with the Ministry of Planning in Iraq and the National Women's Directorate. Regular updates on the progress of work will be required. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal banking information.