National Individual Consultant - Legal expert - Chisinau, Moldova, Programme/Social Policy Section - 4 months (remote/work from home))

Organizational Context

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of children's rights not just as a job, but as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to support the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection (MLSP) in the Republic of Moldova to revise and improve the contracting and delivery framework of the Personal Assistance Service (PAS). The PAS is a crucial tool for social inclusion, enabling persons with disabilities to live independently and participate actively in community life, aligning with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The consultant will work in coordination with a financial expert to prepare legislative recommendations and costing scenarios. The ultimate goal is to strengthen inclusion and enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities by creating a more equitable, flexible, and needs-oriented PAS system, exploring alternative financing and contracting mechanisms.

Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive legal analysis of the existing regulatory framework governing the Personal Assistance Service (PAS) in the Republic of Moldova, including Law No. 60/2012 and Government Decision No. 314/2012. This analysis will identify inequities in coverage, quality, and financial sustainability of the current PAS modalities. The consultant will prepare detailed legislative recommendations for the revision of the PAS contracting and delivery framework, ensuring it is more equitable, flexible, and needs-oriented. In collaboration with a financial expert, the consultant will develop costing scenarios to support the proposed revisions. This includes exploring differentiated levels of support and alternative financing and contracting mechanisms. The consultant will also draft necessary legal documents and amendments to strengthen the inclusion of persons with disabilities and improve their quality of life. The work will involve close coordination with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and other relevant stakeholders, ensuring alignment with international standards, particularly the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

Work Experience

At least 8 years of professional experience in legal analysis and regulatory reform, with a focus on social services, labor law, or public service contracting. Proven experience in reviewing and drafting legal frameworks related to service delivery mechanisms, contracting modalities, and public or social service provision.

Skills

Legal analysis and regulatory reform, Social services law, Labor law, Public service contracting, Drafting legal frameworks, Stakeholder engagement, UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), Social protection legislation, Disability rights, Project management

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