Stakeholder Mapping and Political Analysis Consultant

1. Objective

The objective of this consultancy is to conduct an updated stakeholder mapping and political analysis of the electoral reform landscape in Lebanon and provide evidence-based recommendations to support advocacy, engagement, and reform efforts.

2. Scope of Work

The consultant shall:

Conduct a political analysis of the current electoral reform environment, including:

• Political and governance dynamics affecting electoral reforms
• Parliamentary and governmental positions on reform proposals
• Institutional and constitutional considerations
• Opportunities, risks, and challenges influencing reform prospects

Review and analyze the legal and institutional framework governing elections, including:

• The current electoral law and implementing regulations
• Electoral reform proposals and draft laws submitted during 2025–2026
• Electoral management and oversight mechanisms
• The legal framework governing expatriate voting
• Key legal gaps and reform priorities

Assess the current status of electoral reform discussions and initiatives, including:

• Parliamentary and governmental engagement
• Civil society advocacy efforts
• International support and influence
• Emerging opportunities for reform

Conduct a detailed analysis of the following reform areas:

• Mega Centers
• Supervisory Commission for Elections (SCE)
• Election Day Procedures
• Women's Quota
• Out of Country Voters
• Electoral System Reform

Develop a stakeholder mapping and analysis identifying key actors, their interests, positions, influence, alliances, risks, and opportunities for engagement.

3. Methodology

The consultant shall utilize a combination of:

• Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with relevant stakeholders, including members of parliament, government officials, electoral experts, journalists, civil society representatives, and international actors
• Desk review of relevant laws, parliamentary records, studies, policy papers, public statements, and election observation reports
• The analysis should include stakeholder influence mapping and a Power–Interest Matrix to assess stakeholders' level of influence and interest in electoral reforms

4. Expected Outputs

The final report shall include:

• Political context analysis
• Legal and institutional framework analysis
• State of play of electoral reforms
• Reform-specific assessments
• Stakeholder mapping and analysis
• Political feasibility assessment
• Reform prioritization framework
• Recommendations for advocacy and stakeholder engagement

The assignment will span 10 working days, starting from the date of contract signing and concluding by the end of September 2026. The tentative timeline includes:

• Inception Report: Submit an initial plan within one week of contract initiation, outlining the research approach, methodology, and work plan.
• Draft Report: Share a preliminary report for review and feedback, incorporating initial findings and stakeholder insights.
• Final Report: Deliver a comprehensive final report that includes key findings, stakeholder relationships, strategic recommendations, a dynamic stakeholder map, and an analysis of challenges and opportunities for evidence-based electoral reform advocacy.

5. Required Qualifications

The consultant should possess:

• Advanced degree in political science, law, public policy, social sciences, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience in electoral processes, democratic governance, or electoral reform
• Proven expertise in disability rights, accessibility, and inclusion
• Experience conducting policy analysis, stakeholder consultations, and research studies
• Excellent analytical and report-writing skills in English and Arabic