Consultant for National Social Protection Strategy/Framework

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Position Title: Consultant for National Social Protection Strategy/Framework
Location: Thimphu
Country: Bhutan
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories. Its mission is to reach the world's most disadvantaged children, save their lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. UNICEF operates with a workforce of thousands of employees dedicated to improving the lives of children and families worldwide, focusing on health, education, equality, and protection.

Job Overview:
The consultant will lead the formulation of a comprehensive, evidence-based Social Protection Strategy/Framework for Bhutan, aimed at protecting and promoting the well-being of vulnerable populations. This role involves developing a harmonized and coordinated social protection system that ensures access to essential services and financial support, particularly for children, women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized groups. The consultant will engage with stakeholders, conduct a desk review, facilitate participatory consultations, and develop a strategy that aligns with Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The strategy will focus on inclusivity, capacity building, and resilience enhancement, addressing systemic gaps and promoting social equity.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a comprehensive desk review of existing social protection systems, policies, and frameworks in Bhutan, including international agreements.
• Facilitate participatory consultations with key stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and beneficiaries, to gather diverse perspectives.
• Develop a holistic Social Protection Strategy/Framework that includes a lifecycle approach and pillar lens, ensuring comprehensive coverage and effectiveness of social protection programs.
• Outline a coherent and integrated social protection framework that promotes inclusivity and financial sustainability.
• Present the draft strategy to stakeholders for validation and incorporate feedback for finalization.
• Prepare and submit various reports and documents throughout the assignment, including an inception report, draft strategy, and final report.

Required Qualifications:

• A minimum of a master’s degree in economics, social sciences, international development, public administration, public policy, social policy, or related fields.
• At least 5 years of experience in social protection research, with a focus on Bhutan preferred.
• Strong knowledge of social protection systems, policies, and strategies.
• Excellent analytical, writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• A publication record and experience working with UNICEF or other UN/international entities is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in relevant fields such as economics, social sciences, international development, public administration, public policy, or social policy. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of social protection systems and developing effective strategies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in social protection research, particularly in developing and implementing social protection policies and strategies. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on similar projects, demonstrating expertise in social protection systems and their application in real-world contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Bhutan may be advantageous but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will work on a contractual basis, with payment terms structured around the completion of deliverables. The assignment will involve travel to nearby districts for workshops, with travel costs included in the financial proposal. The consultant is expected to use their own computer and internet for the assignment and must ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, including vaccination status against COVID-1

• The position is not classified as a staff member under UN regulations, and consultants are responsible for their own tax liabilities.