SAFEGUARDING CONSULTANT -  MAG Lao PDR

BACKGROUND TO MAG

The Mines Advisory Group (MAG) is a global humanitarian and advocacy organisation that finds, removes and destroys landmines, cluster munitions and unexploded ordnance from places affected by conflict. MAG also provides Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE), and works to reduce the risk of armed violence through weapons and ammunition management programmes which keep guns and munitions safe and secure.

MAG is currently operational in 26 countries globally. With 27 years’ experience in Laos, MAG has a long history in the northern province of Xieng Khouang and the central province of Khammouane within the country. MAG Lao teams have cleared approximately 85km2 of land within the two provinces to date – destroying over 300,000 items of explosive ordnance (EO). This work has benefitted over one million people living in two of the most contaminated provinces in Laos.

By September 2021, the programme will employ 1200 staff across four base/office locations.

BACKGROUND TO THE CONSULTANCY

MAG globally has a well-established safeguarding framework and standardised resources that outlines the organisation’s commitment to protect staff and communities from sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, bullying, and any other harmful behaviour. This work is led by a dedicated safeguarding unit at global headquarters. Over recent years, there has been an increased focus on safeguarding within the organisation, and country programmes have implemented a variety of measures. MAG is looking to further strengthen safeguarding mechanisms within its programme in Lao PDR, through the establishment of a dedicated safeguarding unit in early 2022, and is also in the process of refreshing its training packages and materials. Whilst in normal circumstances HQ support visits would be conducted to provide direct support, advice and training, this is currently not possible due to travel restrictions as a result of the pandemic. MAG is therefore looking to recruit an in-country safeguarding consultant, in order to support the continued roll-out of the programme’s safeguarding framework.

PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE CONSULTANCY

The overall objective of the consultancy is to support the MAG Lao PDR programme in strengthening existing safeguarding mechanisms during the second half of 2021, during the interim preparation phase for the establishment of an in-country safeguarding unit.

KEY TASKS AND OUTPUTS

The consultant will report directly to the Country Director (CD), but will work closely alongside the HR department to complete the following tasks:

• Programme briefing and meeting with the CD and HR Department [0.5 day].

• Review of safeguarding refresher training materials being used by the programme (provided by MAG HQ) and recommend any adjustments or additions, as appropriate to the country context. Follow up discussion with the CD, HR Department, and potentially MAG HQ to finalise the package [1 day].

• Support the HR Department in preparing for the delivery of refresher training sessions, including a run-through of presentation slides and coaching where required [1 day].

• Attend 2-3 refresher training sessions (ideally one at Vientiane level, one with base support staff and one with operational staff) to observe training, support with any questions arising from participants, provide feedback, and make any recommendations for modifications to future sessions [4 days, including travel time].

• Review and make recommendations for improvements to reporting channels, including an action plan for implementation [0.5 day].

• Alongside the CD, MAG HQ and the in-country HR Department, support the design of and preparations for the new safeguarding unit [2 days].

• Final reporting and wrap-up [1 day]

The expected deliverables are:

1. Safeguarding refresher training materials reviewed and modifications made as necessary.

2. HR Department staff coached on the delivery of safeguarding refresher training.

3. Verbal and written feedback and advice provided on delivery of refresher training sessions.

4. Reporting channels reviewed and action plan for implementation developed.

5. Final report drafted and submitted to Country Director, including future recommendations and an action plan for the establishment of the programme safeguarding unit.

CONSULTANT SELECTION CRITERIA

Due to current Government of Lao entry restrictions and international travel restrictions, only individuals currently resident in Lao PDR will be considered for the consultancy. Consultants must have the necessary paperwork in place to live and work in Lao PDR.

Candidates shall have the following skills and experience:

• Extensive experience of implementing and managing safeguarding/PSEAH/Protection frameworks for International NGOs in South-East Asia.

• Experience of working in Lao PDR, and knowledge of the relevant legislative frameworks relating to safeguarding, as well as the in-country social and cultural context.

• Experience in developing safeguarding materials and resources for use in INGO country programmes.

• Extensive experience of delivering training on safeguarding, ideally in South-East Asia.

• High quality communication skills, including in cross-cultural contexts

• Strong time management skills and a consultative approach that is open to feedback

• Understanding of MAG’s vision, mission and values, and commitment to uphold the MAG Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Policies.

• Available to deliver the consultancy in October/November 2021.

Expressions of Interest should be submitted to Rebecca Letven, Country Director (rebecca.letven@maginternational.org), by 17 September 2021.

All expressions of interest should include:

• A cover letter

• Up-to-date CV, including details of two relevant referees for previous safeguarding-related roles;

• Quotation for the body of work breaking down fees and taxes (accommodation and transport for travel outside Vientiane will be covered directly by MAG).

Please note that as part of MAG's commitment to safeguarding, this post is subject to background checks.