Consultancy: Expert on Compliance with International Humanitarian Law in the Middle East and North Africa

The American Bar Association (ABA) Center for Human Rights (hereinafter the Center) is seeking an expert to engage regional governments and bodies to increase adherence with international humanitarian law standards and principles in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The expert shall map opportunities and identify entry points for a meaningful and practical engagement.

Background and Objectives

Armed conflicts have rampaged several countries in the region, including Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Syria, and Yemen, claiming a high number of civilian casualties, and destroying civilian properties and infrastructure. Warring parties—supported by regional and international powers—have often targeted and attacked civilian targets in potential violation of international law. Renewed attention to these issues have led to the suspicion of arms sales to the region by some suppliers, creating an opening to press for greater adherence to international law.

As such, the Center seeks to explore avenues on how best to engage with governments in the region to increase their compliance with international humanitarian law and relevant UN resolutions. The expert will develop a strategy on how to engage with regional governments and assess the feasibility of various opportunities and entry points to encourage compliance with the Geneva Conventions or ratification of Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). The expert will then work with Center staff to implement the strategy through a series of public or private dialogues with relevant national and international officials.

Deliverables

The consultant shall:

1. Provide an overview of the current dynamics in the region as it relates to efforts to ensure compliance with the law;
2. Map relevant actors and regional bodies working on related issues;
3. Identify avenues, opportunities, and entry points to encourage compliance;
4. Assess the feasibility of these opportunities;
5. Set up meetings with relevant officials for Center staff;
6. Prepare talking points;
7. Conduct appropriate follow-up.

Assignment Duration

This assignment is expected to begin on October 1st, 2021 and to be completed no later than November 2022.

Required Experience and Skills

The candidate should have:

• Academic Qualifications: A masters’ degree or equivalent in international relations, political science, or other related fields.
• Experience:
  • 7-10 years of working experience in the field of international human rights, humanitarian law, or arms trade issues along with at least 7 years focused experience on the Middle East and North Africa.
  • Strong analytical and writing skills.
  • Proven track record of policy research and advocacy work.
  • Proven regional network.