Background

The main objective of the UNDP Lebanese Electoral Assistance Programme (LEAP) is to strengthen the capacity of stakeholders for the conduct of transparent and inclusive elections in Lebanon. Through a multi-component approach, the project has the intended outcomes of providing a strengthened capacity for: (1) the management and administration of Elections (2) the supervision of election campaigns (3) the provision of voter education initiatives (4) the resolution of electoral disputes, and (5) initiatives to improve election opportunities for women. The project is currently providing technical assistance and support in preparation for the 2016 Lebanese municipal elections.

Context of the required services

One of the objectives of UNDP LEAP is to support a strengthened capacity for the resolution of election disputes and an increased public and stakeholder awareness and understanding on the roles of election dispute bodies, and the measures to access remedies. In line with these objectives falling under Component 4 of the Project, and in preparation for the upcoming 2016 municipal elections, UNDP LEAP is seeking to engage with local media and CSOs on the subject of observation of election dispute resolution (EDR).

Lebanese CSOs have a well-established experience in election observation, and have previously covered EDR in their election observation reports. However, the scope and methodology of local observation in relation to EDR are still limited, and could benefit from further development and capacity building. The need was identified to hire an international consultant to support the development of an EDR-specific observation methodology for media and civil society.

Relevance/purpose of the work required and how it is linked to the project context 

The Consultant will deliver a workshop on EDR observation methodology targeted at local media and local observers, and prepare a guidebook on the subject, tailored to the EDR framework of Lebanese municipal elections.

Duties and Responsibilities

i) Tasks

  1. The Consultant will prepare and conduct a two-day workshop on EDR observation methodology targeted at local media and local observers, with the support of and in coordination with the LEAP legal officer and a national legal consultant.
  2. The Consultant will prepare a guidebook on EDR observation methodology, tailored to the EDR framework of Lebanese municipal elections

In case of publication of the guidebook, the Consultant’s contribution to the publication will be acknowledged but all rights to the work done will be held by UNDP LEAP.

Competencies

Functional Competencies: 

  • Knowledge of the role of UNDP and its mission, vision and strategic goals.
  • Ability to demonstrate experience, sensitivity and adaptability on cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age issues.
  • Demonstrable experience in undertaking analytical reviews and drafting reports, and engaging with electoral and judicial stakeholders, including engagement with civil society.
  • Expert knowledge on the issue of electoral dispute resolution and electoral observation. Experience in Lebanon and/or the Arab Region is an asset.
  • Proven facilitation or training skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Knowledge of Arabic is an asset.
  • Proficiency in the use of relevant software.

Corporate Competencies: 

 

 

Required Skills and Experience

Academic Qualifications:

  • A bachelor in Law.
  • A graduate degree (Masters or equivalent) in Law, Political Science or any relevant discipline.

Experience:

  • At least seven years of relevant experience in electoral observation and/or technical assistance.
  • Specific experience in technical assistance and/or observation in the field of election dispute resolution at a senior level.
  • Specific experience or knowledge of the Lebanese electoral and legal framework is a plus.

Languages: 

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Knowledge of Arabic is an asset.