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IOM
Job opening

International Consultant for Assessing Protection Mechanisms and Developing SOPs for Migrants in Vulnerable Situations

LevelUG
LocationAshgabad, Turkmenistan
Application period2026-09-02 / 2026-09-13
Work arrangementOn-site / Duty station

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a UN-related agency established in 1951, promotes humane and orderly migration. This role contributes to a regional project in Central Asia, specifically Turkmenistan, focused on enhancing protection mechanisms and service provision for migrants in vulnerable situations, including victims of trafficking and children. The consultant will operate under the IOM Project Manager in Turkmenistan.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this role is to strengthen mechanisms for the identification, referral, and assistance of migrants in vulnerable situations within Turkmenistan. The international consultant will conduct a national needs assessment, analyzing existing protection frameworks, legal regulations, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and available services. Based on these findings, the consultant will develop recommendations and create or update relevant tools and SOPs. This work aims to bolster the protection and service provision system for vulnerable migrants, improve inter-agency cooperation, and ensure access to quality, gender- and age-sensitive services, ultimately protecting them from violence, exploitation, and rights violations.

Responsibilities

The consultant will conduct a comprehensive analysis of the legal and regulatory framework, existing protection mechanisms, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and available services for migrants in vulnerable situations. This includes mapping existing protection mechanisms, referral pathways, and the roles of relevant institutions. Key stakeholders will be consulted to identify needs and priority areas for system development. Based on this assessment, the consultant will formulate practical recommendations for enhancing protection and inter-agency cooperation. Furthermore, the consultant will develop, update, or adapt tools and SOPs in identified priority areas. Finally, the consultant will present findings and draft materials at a stakeholder meeting and revise them based on received feedback.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience is required in areas like counter-trafficking, social protection, or human rights. Experience in conducting needs assessments, institutional analysis, preparing analytical reports, and developing/updating SOPs is essential. Familiarity with international protection standards for vulnerable migrants and experience working with governmental and international stakeholders are also necessary. Experience in Central Asia is advantageous.

Skills

Excellent analytical, communication, and reporting skills.

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International Consultant for Assessing Protection Mechanisms and Developing SOPs for Migrants in Vulnerable Situations (UG) – IOM in Ashgabad | UNAtlas | UN Atlas