Policy Framework Consultant – the Caribbean At Mines Advisory Group

Develop Policy Framework to Sustainably Dispose of Destroyed Firearms and Ammunition Components in the Caribbean – Consultant

About Mines Advisory Group (MAG)

Founded in 1989, MAG is a co-recipient of the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize for our work towards banning landmines under the Ottawa Treaty, also known as the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. We and work to reduce and prevent armed conflict by supporting government and communities to safely manage weapons and ammunition. We have helped more than 20 million people in 70 countries rebuild their lives and livelihoods after war.

About the Caribbean Programme

In the Caribbean region, MAG together with CARICOM IMPACS is building on various assessments already undertaken in the region to provide targeted assistance to states with regard to weapons and ammunition management, policy and advocacy support, and engagement with a wide range of other partners. This innovative programme focuses on safety, security and sustainability, ultimately helping to create the conditions for peace and sustainable development.

Purpose/objective of the assignment

To support the Caribbean in its efforts to combat the illicit trafficking and proliferation of firearms and ammunitions fuelling armed violence, CARICOM IMPACS, MAG and UNLIREC will seek to develop sustainable, cost-effective options and material recommendations for Caribbean states on methods of final disposal of destroyed firearms and ammunition components. This will enhance the knowledge and capacity of Caribbean states to comply with local, regional and international obligations. These activities will ultimately contribute towards achieving SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), which highlights the illicit flow of arms as a key barrier towards peaceful societies.

The MAG team in partnership with CARICOM IMPACS and UNLIREC is therefore seeking the services of an individual consultant. The consultant will be responsible for conducting an assessment, research and analysis, engagement and outreach with key regional stakeholders, and developing and finalising a policy with instructive recommendations. This policy will be in alignment with applicable international frameworks, in SALW and ammunitions, the Caribbean Priority Actions on Addressing Illicit Trafficking of Firearms (2019), the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap, and relevant national legislations, taking into consideration, health, climate change and other applicable environmental policies.

Implementation arrangements

Desktop analysis and report writing can be carried out on a remote basis, but the successful candidate must be able to travel to select countries in the region to conduct consultations with key national stakeholder’s face to face.

The consultancy is intended to begin on 5 August 2024.

Scope of work

To support the Governments across the Caribbean Region to develop sustainable final disposal solutions for obsolete, surplus and confiscated weapons and ammunition, the Consultant will undertake the following tasks:

1. Initial Assessment and research – Contextual analysis, best practices and environmental review.
2. Stakeholder Engagement – Conduct site visits, consult with key stakeholders across the region, liaise and gather input from partner organisations.
3. Policy Development – Draft policy and technical guidelines in alignment with regulatory frameworks.
4. Validation Exercise – Facilitate feedback session, gather inputs and assess resources; develop action plan.
5. Prepare a brief report identifying research findings, stakeholder feedback, and policy drafts.

Person Specification

The Consultant must present with the following requisite qualifications and competencies:

• At minimum 5 years’ experience in developing policies related to arms control, environmental management, or public safety.
• Demonstrable knowledge in conducting environmental impact assessments, particularly related to hazardous materials.
• Strong understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks at both national and international levels, particularly concerning arms control and environmental protection.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey findings, recommendations, and policy drafts to diverse audiences.
• Experience working with the Caribbean region (preferable).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Training in the field of environmental assessments, environmental management and/or arms control.