Local Governance & Citizen Engagement Expert

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Position Title: Local Governance & Citizen Engagement Expert
Location: Colombo
Country: Sri Lanka
Deadline Date: 10-Mar-25 @ 04:30 AM (New York time)

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a mission to empower lives and build resilient nations.

Job Overview:
The position of Local Governance & Citizen Engagement Expert is crucial for the successful implementation of the SDG16 initiative, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development. The expert will be responsible for enhancing citizen engagement in local governance processes, ensuring that the voices of the community are heard and integrated into decision-making. This role requires a deep understanding of local governance structures and the ability to facilitate dialogue between citizens and government entities. The expert will work closely with local stakeholders to develop strategies that promote transparency, accountability, and active participation in governance. The assignment is expected to last from March 2025 to October 2025, with a total of 90 days of engagement, focusing on building capacities and fostering partnerships that enhance citizen participation in governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Local Governance & Citizen Engagement Expert will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Conducting assessments of local governance structures and citizen engagement practices to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
• Developing and implementing strategies to enhance citizen participation in local governance processes.
• Facilitating workshops and training sessions for local government officials and community leaders on best practices in citizen engagement.
• Collaborating with civil society organizations to promote awareness and understanding of governance issues among citizens.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of citizen engagement initiatives and providing recommendations for improvement.
• Preparing reports and documentation on the progress of citizen engagement efforts and presenting findings to stakeholders.
• Engaging with local media to promote transparency and accountability in governance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in governance, public administration, or a related field. A proven track record of working with local governments and communities to enhance citizen engagement is essential. The ideal candidate should have excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Knowledge of local governance frameworks and experience in capacity building are highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to promoting inclusive governance and social equity.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, social sciences, or a related field is required. A master’s degree in a relevant discipline would be an advantage. Candidates should have a solid understanding of governance principles and practices, particularly in the context of Sri Lanka.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in local governance, citizen engagement, or community development. Experience working with international organizations or NGOs in similar roles will be considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the socio-political context of Sri Lanka and have experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with proficiency in Sinhala or Tamil being highly desirable. The ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms is essential for engaging with diverse stakeholders and facilitating discussions.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Consultant role, and only submissions from Sri Lankan individuals will be considered for evaluation. The contract duration is from March 2025 to October 2025, encompassing a total of 90 days of work. The position is part-time, and candidates are expected to submit their proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. Compensation details and benefits will be discussed during the selection process.