International Consultant - Development of Minimum Operational, Protection and Technical Standards and Tools for Temporary Holding Centres for Migrants
Organizational Context
Established in 1951, IOM is a UN-related organization focused on promoting humane and orderly migration. It works with partners to save lives, protect people on the move, and facilitate migration pathways. This consultancy supports a regional project enhancing migrant protection in Central Asia, specifically developing standards for temporary holding centers in Uzbekistan.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to develop a comprehensive, practical, and context-appropriate framework of minimum operational, protection, and technical standards, along with practical tools, for temporary holding centers for migrants in Uzbekistan. These centers may house migrants with diverse legal and operational statuses, necessitating common minimum standards and differentiated procedures. The framework will ensure safe, humane, and effective management, integrating mechanisms for identifying vulnerable migrants, applying safeguards, and facilitating referrals to existing services. The assignment also includes developing and piloting a competency-based training package, with content adaptable for a digital learning module, to support the practical application of these standards and tools.
Responsibilities
The consultant will review national legislation, international standards, and comparative foreign practices related to migrant holding. This includes identifying applicable migrant categories and regimes, and developing common minimum operational, protection, and technical standards covering admission, treatment, accommodation, sanitation, healthcare, communication, staffing, security, and exit procedures. A key task is to develop a framework for early identification of vulnerabilities and differentiated protection responses, including specific safeguards for vulnerable groups like children and victims of trafficking. The consultant will also establish inter-agency protection and referral pathways, particularly with the National Agency for Social Protection, and develop practical operational tools such as screening checklists and referral forms. Finally, the consultant will validate and revise the standards and tools, develop a competency-based training package, pilot the training and tools, and finalize all materials, including preparing content for a self-paced digital learning module.
Work Experience
Demonstrated professional experience in migration management, migrant protection, human rights, return/removal procedures, or immigration detention/temporary holding. Experience in analyzing legal/institutional frameworks and developing standards/procedures is required. Knowledge of international human rights and migrant protection standards is essential. Experience with immigration detention/holding facilities, referral mechanisms, or cooperation with relevant authorities is a strong asset.
Skills
Strong analytical, drafting, and communication skills. Ability to translate complex requirements into practical solutions. Experience in developing training materials. Ability to work independently and engage with stakeholders. Fluency in English and Russian required; Uzbek is an advantage.