International Consultant: Researcher on Judicial Integrity and Independence in SA

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas including governance, peacebuilding, and rule of law, and is committed to promoting human rights and sustainable development goals.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant: Researcher on Judicial Integrity and Independence in South Asia is part of the Governance and Peacebuilding Team at the UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub. The consultant will be responsible for conducting comprehensive research on the state of judiciaries in South Asia, specifically in Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The research will aim to identify good practices and gaps in judicial integrity and independence, focusing on legal and institutional frameworks, appointment and disciplinary processes for judges, judicial ethics, accountability mechanisms, and public perceptions of the judiciary. The consultant will utilize primary source data, including interviews with key stakeholders and surveys of judges, to provide a thorough assessment of the current judicial landscape in the region. This role is crucial for informing reform and capacity-building efforts in the judicial systems of these countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be expected to perform the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth research on the judicial systems of Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, focusing on judicial integrity and independence.
• Analyze legal and institutional frameworks governing the judiciary in the selected countries.
• Identify and document good practices and gaps in the appointment and disciplinary processes for judges.
• Evaluate judicial ethics and accountability mechanisms currently in place.
• Gather and analyze public perceptions of the judiciary through surveys and interviews with key stakeholders.
• Prepare a comprehensive report detailing findings, conclusions, and recommendations for reform and capacity building.
• Collaborate with the Governance and Peacebuilding Team to ensure alignment with UNDP's objectives and strategies.
• Present findings to relevant stakeholders and contribute to discussions on judicial reform in the region.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• Advanced degree in law, political science, social sciences, or a related field.
• Extensive knowledge of judicial systems, governance, and rule of law, particularly in South Asia.
• Proven experience in conducting research and analysis in the field of judicial integrity and independence.
• Strong analytical and writing skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
• Experience working with international organizations or NGOs is an asset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in law, political science, social sciences, or a related field. A strong academic background in governance, rule of law, or judicial systems is essential for this role.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in research, particularly in the areas of judicial integrity and independence. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience, including work with international organizations, NGOs, or academic institutions. Experience in South Asia is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the legal and institutional frameworks of the region's judiciaries.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all research and reporting will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, or Sri Lanka would be considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the research process.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote and home-based, with no travel required. The duration of the assignment is tentatively from June 2025 to October 2025, for a maximum of 45 working days. Interested candidates must submit their proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. The position is classified as an individual contractor role, and candidates should be prepared to comply with UNDP's procurement processes.