Consultant on FGM Evidence-Based Advocacy and Accountability
Organizational Context
UNFPA is the UN agency dedicated to delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization's Strategic Plan for 2026-2029 focuses on ending unmet needs for family planning, preventable maternal deaths, gender-based violence, harmful practices, and adapting to demographic change. This role supports the "Breaking the Silence" regional program in South-East Asia, aiming to accelerate progress towards SDG 5.3.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to strengthen knowledge management and enhance accountability for addressing Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) in South and Southeast Asia. The role will translate emerging regional research and data into actionable advocacy products and strategic movement-building initiatives. It will foster cross-country learning and strengthen coordination for the implementation of the Regional Accountability Framework (RAF) among strategic partners. The ultimate goal is to increase regional and global impact in the fight against FGM/C, contributing to the elimination of harmful practices and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 5.3.
Responsibilities
The consultant will develop a mapping of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) working on FGM/C in the region and support its geo-visualization linked to the Regional Accountability Framework (RAF). Responsibilities include supporting the operationalization of the RAF to monitor commitments towards eliminating harmful practices and developing tools for regional coalitions to track institutional commitments, human rights reporting, and legal compliance. The consultant will coordinate at least four strategic dialogues, knowledge-exchange webinars, and peer-learning workshops. They will also review and synthesize regional research and data on FGM/C, including medicalization trends and legal barriers, to inform advocacy. Furthermore, the consultant will draft evidence-based advocacy briefs, technical notes, and policy messages for key decision-makers and regional bodies, and support evidence-based advocacy in relevant forums.
Work Experience
Experience in research synthesis, drafting policy briefs, factsheets, or technical reports is required. Experience in coordinating meetings, workshops, networks, or multi-stakeholder consultations is also necessary. Prior exposure to FGM/C, harmful practices, or social norm change in the Asia-Pacific region is a strong asset. Experience with UN system operations, gender programming, or DFAT-funded projects is desirable.
Skills
Strong drafting skills in English, with the ability to translate complex research into clear, concise text. Excellent time management, file organization, and task tracking skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English. Experience researching/advocating on FGM, GBV, and harmful practices is desirable.