Republic of Moldova

Background

UNDP and UNIFEM in partnership with the Government of Moldova (State Chancellery) are implementing the Joint Integrated Local Development Programme (JILDP). The JILDP was designed to improve the policy framework, as well as to support the administrative systems and procedures focused on efficient transfer of competencies to Local Public Administrations (LPAs), decentralization and promotion of LPAs’ role in decision making. It also helps in building the capacity of LPAs to plan, implement and monitor their strategic plans and improve local public service delivery, involving civil society and community efforts and participation.

Objectives of the assignment

The objective of the assignment is to get proper and updated identification and knowledge about the persons and groups to be defined as “vulnerable” in Moldova from a Human Rights perspective. Implementing HRBA means emphasising the advancement and well-being of those most discriminated in society. The intention with this study is to use the information; to in all means available include the most vulnerable people into the reform process and to in the end improve their situation.
The findings of the study will be used as a basis in all other studies and research within the JILDP and decentralization process, specifically looking at the situation of the most vulnerable, and measuring the effects of the reform on these groups over time. The information will also be used when performing consultations, making sure that the most vulnerable are able to influence their situation.
Assignment under these ToR will include three basic dimensions:

1. Study on vulnerable groups of population (including their identification, definition, etc.), which will feed into the decentralization reform; in this regard, particular reference will be paid to implementing the findings of competent international and regional review bodies.
2. Based on conclusions and recommendations of the study, feed in and connect with other JILDP studies on decentralization (on administrative-territorial structure, on administrative and fiscal decentralization, on de-concentrated services).
3. Provide strategic and conceptual advice on HRBA to the working groups established by the Government under the Decentralization reform.

Qualifications

Eligible consultants should meet the following minimum qualification criteria:
Experiences:

• Advanced degree in Social sciences, Public Administration, law or similar field, or equivalent working experience in the sector
• At least 3 years of experience in performing and/or analyzing quantitative and qualitative research, investigating the Human Rights/Socio-economic conditions of marginalized people,
• Experience of writing comprehensive, analytical reports,
• Experience of and understanding of the international and regional human rights framework of relevance to Moldova, as well as grasp of recommendations to the Government of Moldova by UN Treaty Bodies, Council of Europe human rights and social inclusion review bodies of relevance to local governance in Moldova,
• Excellent analytical skills
• Experience of working with the inclusion of marginalized groups would be an asset.

Abilities & Technical Skills

• Ability to gather relevant research, to interpret and analyze information, and provide practical recommendations based on results
• Excellent writing skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills required for collaboration with local public administration representatives and service providers
• Proved abilities or skills to manage a contract with international organizations
• Fluency in English and Romanian.
• Computer literacy and ability to effectively use office technology equipment, IT tools.

Qualified women, persons with disabilities, and members of minority groups – including in particular Roma – are encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions

Consultant shall submit for consideration the following documents:

1. Cover letter
2. Duly completed P11 form. UNIFEM Personal History Form (P11)
3. Detailed CV matching qualification requirements
4. Methodological guidelines and detailed workplan for accomplishing assignment
5. Honorarium expectations (per assignment as total)

with the mark “Consultancy service - Identifying vulnerable groups in Moldova (Joint ILDP)/UNIFEM” by 10 August 2010, 17:00 (Moldova time) to Elena Postovan, at elena.postovan@unifem.org

Only those short listed will be contacted.