National Consultant on Legal Support

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Position Title: National Consultant on Legal Support
Location: Bishkek
Country: Kyrgyzstan
Deadline Date: 25-Feb-25 @ 03:00 AM (New York time)

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through the sustainable development of nations. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate and disaster resilience, and sustainable development. UNDP aims to empower lives and build resilient nations by providing expert advice, training, and grants support to developing countries. The organization employs thousands of professionals worldwide, working collaboratively to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The National Consultant on Legal Support will play a crucial role in the project titled 'Integrated Community-based Management of High-Value Mountain Ecosystems in Southern Kyrgyzstan for Multiple Benefits.' This project addresses significant environmental challenges such as biodiversity loss, land degradation, and the impacts of climate change in the ecologically important Pamir-Alai region. The consultant will be responsible for providing legal support in the establishment of protected areas, which involves navigating complex land ownership issues and ensuring compliance with national legal frameworks. The consultant will work closely with local communities and stakeholders to facilitate the legal processes necessary for the creation of four new Protected Areas (PAs) in the region. The position requires a commitment of 150 effective person days over a period of 12 months following the signing of the contract, with the work primarily taking place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Consultant on Legal Support include:

• Conducting a comprehensive legal analysis of existing land ownership and usage rights in the Pamir-Alai region to identify potential challenges and opportunities for establishing protected areas.
• Collaborating with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to gather necessary information and facilitate discussions regarding land use and conservation efforts.
• Drafting legal documents and frameworks required for the establishment of protected areas, ensuring they align with national laws and international best practices.
• Providing guidance and recommendations on legal matters related to biodiversity conservation and land management.
• Assisting in the resolution of land disputes and conflicts that may arise during the establishment of protected areas.
• Monitoring and evaluating the legal processes involved in the establishment of protected areas, providing regular updates to UNDP and stakeholders.
• Conducting training sessions and workshops for local stakeholders on legal aspects of biodiversity conservation and protected area management.
• Preparing reports and documentation on the progress of legal support activities and the establishment of protected areas.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• A degree in law, environmental law, or a related field.
• Proven experience in legal consulting, particularly in the areas of land use, biodiversity conservation, and environmental law.
• Strong understanding of national legal frameworks related to land ownership and protected areas in Kyrgyzstan.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex legal issues.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in legal drafting and documentation.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, specifically a degree in law or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in environmental law or natural resource management will be considered an asset. The educational qualifications should demonstrate a solid understanding of legal principles and frameworks applicable to biodiversity conservation and land management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in legal consulting or advisory roles, particularly in the context of environmental law, land use, and biodiversity conservation. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs in similar projects will be highly regarded. Familiarity with the legal and regulatory landscape in Kyrgyzstan is essential, along with a proven track record of successfully navigating complex legal processes.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Russian is mandatory, as these languages are essential for communication with stakeholders and for the preparation of legal documents. Knowledge of Kyrgyz language is an advantage but not a requirement. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as an Individual Contract, with a total of 150 effective person days allocated over a 12-month period following the signing of the contract. The consultant will be expected to work primarily from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and may need to travel to the Pamir-Alai region as required. The role is part-time, and the consultant will be compensated based on the agreed contract terms. The deadline for submitting proposals is 25-Feb-25 at 03:00 AM New York time. Interested candidates must submit their proposals through the UNDP supplier portal.