Consultant for Targeted Analysis on Local Peacebuilding

About the project: International Alert is implementing a dialogue project in the Bekaa to support local dialogue networks with capacity development and accompaniment on conflict analysis and sensitivity. In part of this project, Alert aims to undertake a targeted analysis on emerging conflict and peacebuilding issues related to, inter alia, socio-economic dynamics and economic crisis, service delivery, water and addressing existing gaps. To deepen our understanding of conflicts arising from service delivery, including the provision of water and management of solid waste and wastewater, needs and priorities, we aim to conduct detailed and focused analysis on key issues to inform our responses and inform the responses of others (such as joint context analysis, coordination and sharing lessons learned). In light of the recent outbreak of COVID-19, the analysis would also attempt to examine its implications on peacebuilding work in Lebanon, with particular focus on the Bekaa. Objectives of the assessment: The overall objective of the consultancy is to collect primary data and perform initial data analysis that will inform the entry points for peacebuilding and conflict-sensitive development and the best approaches to establishing a diverse peacebuilding network in the subsequent phase of this project, post June 2020. The targeted analysis will aim to explore the Lebanon context, with particular focus on the Bekaa, with a view of potential local environmental peacebuilding programming. As such, the process will help Alert shape a better understanding of the following: • Opportunities and space for inter- and intra-community and multi-stakeholder dialogue and/or cooperation. • Understanding entry points for supporting grassroots peace activism and new movements, especially post the October 2019 movement. • Understanding implications of the current economic crisis and COVID-19 pandemic and responses on conflict dynamics. • Recommendations and best practices to adopt in developing a local peace network and in defining its mode of operations and dialogue mechanisms in light of the possible prolongation of COVID-19 measures. • Best ways to link the work of the peace network with the BDG and to create linkages with the local communities and with local authorities (municipalities and security actors). Data collection activities: • A series of consultations and FGDs around Lebanon, with particular focus on the Bekaa, but also looking at other regions for comparative analysis and a national snapshot. The consultations will be made with diverse organisations, entities, and groups working on water, wastewater and provision/delivery of basic services such as CSOs/CBOs, local authorities and some INGOs. The aim is to obtain a better understanding of perspectives on opportunities, risks and prospects related to the new and evolving dynamics in citizen-state relations, and to the new mode of service delivery amid the current COVID-19 measures. • Online Survey with diverse organisations, entities, and groups working on water, wastewater and provision/delivery of basic services (health and protection) such as CSOs/CBOs, local authorities and some INGOs. • Report write up • A series of validation meetings (online as necessary) with implementer stakeholders to discuss findings, implications on peacebuilding work, and recommendations. • Dissemination of findings and platform for exchange with key local, national and international partners and actors (online as necessary). Deliverables and tentative workplan: The Consultant will work closely with International Alert’s team. Alert will provide the consultant with the assessment methodology and advise on tools. The Consultant will be responsible for tool testing, data collection and report writing, following an agreed structure. Task 1: Review of secondary data Time: 2 days Lead: Consultant Task 2: Identification of KII and FGD participants and development of tools Time: 1 day Lead: Consultant, with advice from Alert Task 3: Data collection Time: 8 days Lead: Consultant Task 4: Data analysis and report write-up Time: 3 days Lead: Consultant Task 5: Validation Meetings with stakeholders and report revision Time: 1 day Lead: Consultant, with support from Alert Consultant profile: • University degree in social sciences or relevant fields • At least three years of experience in interviewing vulnerable populations, familiar with standards of ethical conduct in research settings • Strong inter-personal communication skills, including proven ability to communicate culturally sensitive and gender sensitive ways • Excellent skills in research and data collection, including remote data collection, in Lebanon • Excellent spoken Arabic skills, and excellent writing skills in English • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team • Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism, including following data protection guidelines and establishing and observing systems for managing data safely and securely • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines • Prior experience in context analysis, peacebuilding and conflict analysis in Lebanon is essential and experience with gender sensitivity analysis a strong plus Experience required: At least three years of experience in interviewing vulnerable populations, with familiarity for standards of ethical conduct in research settings Education degree: Bachelor’s degree Experience required: 3 to 5 years Education degree: Bachelor’s degree Field of education: University degree in social sciences or related Languages - Arabic: Excellent English: Excellent Period: A maximum of 15 full working days to be completed in May and June 2020. Compensation: Competitive price offers