Study on the Impact of Social Services on Persons with Disabilities in the State of Palestine Consultant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is seeking a consultant to study the impact of social services on persons with disabilities in the State of Palestine. This role supports the Palestinian Ministry of Social Development's request for technical cooperation to assess social assistance programs.

Job Purpose

The consultant will conduct a comprehensive study, both quantitatively and qualitatively, on the impact of social assistance on approximately 15,000 persons with severe disabilities in Palestine. The purpose is to assess the adequacy, equity, and impact of current social assistance on well-being, autonomy, inclusion, and resilience. The study will inform policy options to strengthen a more inclusive, adequate, rights-based, and disability-responsive social protection system, aligning with national priorities and international commitments like the Amman-Berlin Declaration and the CRPD. It aims to identify how social assistance narrows the poverty gap and meets essential needs, while also examining related aspects like accessibility and gender equality.

Responsibilities

The consultant will analyze existing social assistance programs for persons with disabilities in Palestine, including cash transfers and service provisions. Key duties involve assessing the impact of these programs on beneficiaries' poverty reduction, access to healthcare, education, employment, and social participation. The consultant will examine the adequacy and regularity of benefits relative to disability-related costs and assess inclusion/exclusion patterns and barriers faced by vulnerable groups. Additionally, the role requires reviewing institutional setups and service delivery mechanisms, documenting lessons learned and promising practices, and generating evidence-based recommendations for policy reforms to enhance the social protection system's inclusivity and responsiveness.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of professional experience in social policy, economics, public policy, disability inclusion, or social protection is required. This includes at least 5 years of experience working with government institutions or international organizations on social protection systems and disability inclusion. Demonstrated experience in quantitative and qualitative research, policy analysis, and socio-economic assessments is essential.

Skills

Excellent analytical, drafting, facilitation, and communication skills. Strong knowledge of disability-inclusive development, rights-based approaches, and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Experience in conducting quantitative and qualitative research, policy analysis, and socio-economic assessments. Familiarity with the Palestinian social protection and disability policy context is desirable. Experience coordinating with multiple stakeholders is desirable.

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