UN Women: Development of a National Guideline on Mainstreaming Women’s Needs and Priorities in Sectoral and Local Policies and Plans, National Consultant
Organizational Context
UN Women Iraq Country Office is supporting the development of a National Guideline on Mainstreaming Women's Affairs in Sectoral and Local Policies and Plans. This initiative, in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning and the National Directorate for Iraqi Women, aims to create a practical, government-endorsed tool to integrate women's needs into national and local planning. The role is part of a joint effort with ESCWA.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to contribute to the development of a National Guideline on Mainstreaming Women's Affairs in Sectoral and Local Policies and Plans for Iraq. The guideline will provide clear, actionable guidance for government bodies on integrating women's affairs into policies and plans, grounded in national legal frameworks and international standards. It will be co-developed with national stakeholders and endorsed by the Government of Iraq, ensuring it is practical, context-sensitive, and aligned with UN Women's programming priorities. The role focuses on leading the Iraq-specific evidence base and national content, while anchoring stakeholder engagement and coordination.
Responsibilities
The consultant will conduct an inception and preparatory analysis, reviewing national and international frameworks, identifying gaps, and mapping existing strategies. They will contribute to drafting the National Guideline, focusing on Iraq-specific components, ensuring it is practical and aligned with national priorities. The role involves significant stakeholder engagement, including participating in technical meetings and a national workshop to validate the draft guideline. The consultant will serve as a day-to-day focal point for coordination between national counterparts and UN Women/ESCWA. Finally, they will support the finalization of the Guideline, develop an implementation roadmap, prepare a stakeholder engagement report, and provide inputs for capacity development programs and dissemination activities.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in policy analysis, mainstreaming women's affairs, policy design, or development programming is required. Experience in developing policy guidelines, working with Iraqi government institutions on women's affairs, and drafting documents in Arabic is essential. Experience in national planning processes and applying economic analysis to women's issues is desirable.
Skills
Excellent analytical, policy, and research skills. Strong understanding of women's affairs and empowerment, particularly in the Iraqi context. Demonstrated ability to develop practical, government-facing documents. Experience in stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Proficiency in Arabic and English.