Un(e) Consultant(e) International(e) Chargé(e) D’appuyer L’institutionnalisation Du Cadre Légal Et Procédural Relatif À La Tutelle Légale Et À La Détermination De L’intérêt Supérieur De L’enfant (DIS)

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been active in Mauritania since 2006, supporting the government and civil society in migration management. This role supports the Ministry of Social Action, Childhood and Family (MASEF) through a project funded by the European Union, aiming to strengthen institutional capacities for child protection, particularly for children in mobility and victims of trafficking.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to provide technical and strategic support to the Ministry of Social Action, Childhood and Family (MASEF) in Mauritania. The role will assess existing legal and procedural frameworks related to legal guardianship and the determination of the best interests of the child (DIS). It will identify necessary adjustments for sustainable integration into the national legal and institutional framework, proposing a roadmap to consolidate achievements and improve these procedures. The consultant will also contribute to strengthening institutional capacities through mentoring and workshops, enhancing inter-institutional coordination and practice coherence for a more effective and inclusive national child protection system.

Responsibilities

The consultant will conduct an assessment of the national legal and procedural framework for legal guardianship, the determination of the best interests of the child (DIS), and alternative care mechanisms like foster families. They will identify gaps, inconsistencies, and harmonization needs against international and national child protection standards, and analyze existing coordination mechanisms and institutional constraints. The role involves mentoring MASEF to consolidate and appropriate legal texts and normative documents related to legal guardianship and foster families. The consultant will support the integration of migration and mobility issues into the national child protection strategy, ensuring alignment with protection standards for vulnerable children. Collaboration with a national consultant is key to ensure coherence between institutional reforms and operational practices. The consultant will propose a roadmap for official adoption and progressive implementation of these mechanisms and organize technical workshops for institutional stakeholders, culminating in a final report with strategic recommendations and an action plan for sustainability.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in child protection is required. Proven experience in institutional strengthening, formalizing legal procedures, and supporting national ministries or institutions is necessary. Experience in mentoring or technical support to state actors and/or civil society organizations is also required. Familiarity with North Africa and/or Sub-Saharan Africa, and understanding of migration dynamics in West Africa or Mediterranean routes is desirable.

Skills

Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills. Proficiency in training, coaching, and mentoring. Excellent communication and writing abilities. Fluency in French is mandatory; knowledge of Arabic and local languages is an asset.

Explore related opportunities