Consultant

Consultant Security

Overview

Support research on food security and violent extremism in Kenya and East Africa

You have:

• Advanced University degree (Master’s or equivalent) in political science, international relations, history, social science or a related field is required.
• A minimum of seven years of relevant working experience, at national or international level, in conducting research, analysis and data collection on various topics related to P/CVE is required.
• Previous experience on issues pertaining to violent extremism and food security in East Africa is also required.
• Previous work with international organizations, especially in the context of developing or implementing policies related to food security and counter-terrorism, is desirable.
• Relevant experience in conducting field research in Chad/Sahel region is highly desirable.
• Fluency in oral and written English is required.
• Knowledge of local language in Kenya would be an asset.

Contract

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Result of Service

The Consultant is envisaged to support UNICRI in its research on the relationship between food security and violent extremism in Kenya and East Africa.

Work Location

Home-based

Expected duration

January –August 2024

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Background of the assignment: United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) is a United Nations entity established in 1968 to support countries worldwide in preventing crime and facilitating criminal justice. UNICRI is mandated to assist intergovernmental, governmental and non-governmental organizations in formulating and implementing improved policies in the field of crime prevention and criminal justice. UNICRI' s goals are:

• to advance understanding of crime-related problems; • to foster just and efficient criminal justice systems; • to support the respect of international instruments and other standards; • to facilitate international law enforcement cooperation and judicial assistance.

In 2023, UNICRI launched a new research initiative to investigate the relationship between food security and violent extremism, identify good practices for addressing the challenges of food insecurity and violent extremism, and support the development of policies and actions that consider the complex interplay between food security and violent extremism. Exploring the interconnections between food security and violent extremism is essential for understanding their mutual effects - how they intensify and mutually reinforce one another. This understanding will enable the development of holistic and sustainable approaches to tackle both challenges simultaneously.

2. Purpose of the assignment: This position is located within the Counter-Terrorism Programme of UNICRI. The Consultant is envisaged to support UNICRI in its research on the relationship between food security and violent extremism in Kenya and East Africa. More specifically, the Consultant will prepare an analytical report on the topic, and carry out related research and analysis. As this is a joint research undertaking with WFP, regular communication will be taking place.

3. Specific tasks to be performed by the Consultant: Under the supervision of the Programme Officer, the incumbent will perform the following tasks: PHASE 1: Prepare Research Plan • Meet with the project team to discuss research questions, scope, methodology, and timeline; • Coordinate regularly with the UNICRI as well as the WFP team designated for the project throughout the different phases; • Prepare a research plan outlining the key steps/methodology with specific deliverables and timeline; contextual analysis focusing on food security and its intersections with violent extremism (3 pages) PHASE 2: Research and Analysis • Conduct comprehensive desk-based research on the impact of food insecurity on the rise of terrorism, and how extremist groups exploit these vulnerabilities – East Africa focus. • Based on the outcomes of the desk research, support the UNICRI and WFP team by advising which areas of Kenya (specific counties) to carry out in-depth research and interviews. • Design a questionnaire (consulting with wider team) to caputure releavant data from sample of interviewed stakeholders in relevant communities. • Collect primary data through the involvement of key stakeholders, including local and national authorities, representatives of youths, nomadic and sedentary actors, women, traders and local institutions. • Facilitate, contribute substantively to organizing and lead the dialogue at a meeting of experts from national authorities, NGOs, research entities and think tanks, as well as representatives from WFP and other UN agencies. • Interact with relevant stakeholders, collect pertinent literature, and analyze existing resources to fill gaps. • Engage with recognized specialists in UN agencies and other relevant institutions to collect insights on experiences, best practices, and challenges. PHASE 3: Report Drafting

• Based on insights from research and consultations, develop a detailed report covering the current and historical impact of food security on terrorism, challenges and gaps in policy and practice, and provide actionable recommendations. • Share the preliminary draft of the report with participants from the expert group meeting for feedback and validation.

PHASE 4: Report Finalization and Additional Research Support

• Revise the report considering feedback and additional findings related to food security and counter-terrorism. • Finalize the report and share it with the Programme Officer, who will also consult wider WFP team, for further comments and feedback.

Qualifications/special skills

Advanced University degree (Master’s or equivalent) in political science, international relations, history, social science or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. A minimum of seven years of relevant working experience, at national or international level, in conducting research, analysis and data collection on various topics related to P/CVE is required. Previous experience on issues pertaining to violent extremism and food security in East Africa is also required. Previous work with international organizations, especially in the context of developing or implementing policies related to food security and counter-terrorism, is desiderable. Relevant experience in conducting field research in Chad/Sahel region is highly desirable

Languages

For this position, fluency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of local language in Kenya would be an asset.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.

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Potential interview questions

Added 2 years ago - Updated 1 year ago - Source: careers.un.org