TM is seeking the services of a research consultant to review and produce a report on the appointment and dismissal of members of the oversight bodies in the Maldives.
Position title: Research Consultant
Research title: Review on the Appointment and Dismissal of Members of Oversight Bodies
Expected period of commitment: 04 Weeks
Application deadline: 7th September 2016
Location: Male’, Maldives
View/download the Terms of Reference.
1. Organization Background
Transparency Maldives (TM) is a non-partisan organization that endeavors to be a constructive force in society by promoting collaboration and discussion on corruption, transparency and accountability. Our organization seeks to engage with stakeholders from all sectors (government, business, politics and civil society, among others) to raise awareness of corruption’s detrimental effects on development and society, improve transparency and accountability in governance, and eliminate corruption from the daily lives of people.
Transparency Maldives received formal government registration in 2007, and is the National Contact of Transparency International (TI) in the Maldives.
2. Background to the assignment
Following the ratification of the Constitution in 2008, along with the changes in the longstanding governance system of the country, independent oversight bodies were also mandated such as the Elections Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission, Judicial Service Commission and the Human Rights Commission. These institutions are vital links between citizens and the state and act as grievance mechanisms for the public. Further, a strong oversight mechanism is a powerful asset in the fight against corruption, and to increase accountability of the state. When oversight bodies are independent of the government, they are empowered platforms for advocacy and to maintain a proper check and balance within the pillars of democracy.
However, in order to be effective oversight bodies, such bodies also need to command public trust and confidence not only in its functions but also in the process in which members are appointed to oversee these bodies.
3. Purpose of the Assignment
TM is seeking the services of a research consultant to review and produce a report on the appointment and dismissal of members of the oversight bodies in the Maldives.
The consultant is expected to conduct a comprehensive study to examine the legal framework, identify trends, procedures and practices followed in the appointment and dismissal of members of independent bodies between 2008-2016. The study should also make recommendations for policy and procedural reform of existing practices and legal framework.
4. Responsibilities of the consultant
The Consultant will be expected to work closely with the Senior Project Coordinator for this project to:
1. Undertake a desk review of existing literature pertaining to oversight bodies in the Maldives.
2. Provide a methodology for the review.
3. Arrange necessary meetings and conduct interviews with relevant stakeholders.
4. Compile data and information on the appointment and dismissal of members of independent bodies between 2008-2016.
5. Write the final report.
5. Deliverables
1. Submit a timeline for the deliverables, not exceeding 4 weeks.
2. Detailed document with proposed methodology, together with a list of members of oversight bodies from 2008 to 2016.
3. Report on the appointment and dismissal of members of independent bodies from 2008-2016, with key findings on trends, procedures and practices followed, together with recommendations for policy and procedural reform based on best practices.
4. Conduct a validation workshop with relevant stakeholders.
5. Presentation of key findings, trends and recommendations based on best practices.
6. Duration of the Assignment: Four (4) weeks, with expected start date at the beginning of September 2016. The consultant must be based in Malé, Maldives for the duration of the assignment.
7. Reporting
The Consultant will work closely with and report to the Senior Project Coordinator at TM throughout the assignment.
8. Required Competencies
1. Master’s degree in a social sciences related field.
2. Proven expertise in political-institutional analysis with particularly strong knowledge of the country’s anti-corruption regime.
3. Familiarity with transparency, accountability and anti-corruption discourse.
4. Ability to research, analyse and synthesise information.
5. Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative survey methodologies
6. Ability to clearly and concisely express ideas and concepts in written and oral form.
7. Knowledge of corruption-related issues in the Maldivian context.
8. Excellent spoken and written English and Dhivehi.
9. Excellent ability to set priorities and manage time.
Closing date for applications: Before 0400pm Wednesday, 7th September 2016.
Application and selection procedures: Interested applicants should submit an email to Shifza Omar ([email protected]). The subject line must read “Research Consultancy”. The content of the application should not be longer than 5 pages and must include the following:
1. A summary of relevant experience (attach a brief CV, providing evidence that you are qualified to undertake this assignment).
2. At least two examples of similar assignments that you have undertaken, preferably in the Maldives, over the past 5 years.
3. Proposed Charges (including estimates of consulting days and expenses)
4. Two relevant references.
5. Demonstrated fluency in English and Dhivehi.
Applications must be in English. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
The contract will be awarded on a lump sum/fixed cost basis. The application should state the bid amount (in MRF) for undertaking the work.
Transparency Maldives retains the right to reject any or all of the applications and/or to enter into additional negotiations with one or more of the tendering parties to help define the exact scope of the work and deliverables to be undertaken.