Inclusion Expert: Framework for Inclusion for the Jerusalem...

Request for Quotations and proposals

Inclusion Expert: Framework for Inclusion

for the

Jerusalem Legal Aid & Human Rights Centre (JLAC)

RFQ 10/2023

  Date: 18/06/2023

INTRODUCTION

The Jerusalem Legal Aid & Human Rights Centre (JLAC) is a prominent and enduring Palestinian organisation dedicated to safeguarding the human rights of Palestinians. Established in 1974 under the auspices of the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), JLAC has been unwavering in its pursuit of justice. Evolving with the changing landscape, JLAC has prioritised the protection of vulnerable communities in East Jerusalem and Area C, advocating for their rights to dwellings, territories, and civil liberties. Through pro bono legal assistance, outreach initiatives, and advocacy campaigns, JLAC holds various Duty Bearers accountable, including the Israeli government in East Jerusalem, their military in Area C, and the Palestinian Authority, ensuring redress for human rights violations.

Grounded in its vision of a Palestinian society founded on principles of justice and the preservation of human dignity, JLAC strives to empower individuals as they seek justice within the framework of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and International Human Rights Law (IHRL). By providing comprehensive legal representation to victims of Israeli human rights violations, JLAC enables them to assert their rights and pursue remedies for the injustices they have endured. Moreover, JLAC employs legal mechanisms and advocacy tools to activate accountability measures, advocating for the prosecution of perpetrators, particularly in cases of forced displacement. In doing so, JLAC seeks to compel the occupying power to fulfil its responsibility of delivering essential services and upholding the rights of the Palestinian people.

Furthermore, JLAC recognizes the significance of fostering a culture that upholds human and legal rights within the Palestinian Authority. To this end, JLAC diligently scrutinises policies, legislations, and practices, ensuring their alignment with international laws and covenants ratified by the Palestinian State since 2014. By monitoring compliance, JLAC aims to fortify the resilience and dignity of the Palestinian people, cultivating an environment where human rights are respected, protected, and upheld at all levels.

With a steadfast commitment to its vision and mission, JLAC remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, advocating for the rights and well-being of the Palestinian people, and striving to create a society where justice, dignity, and human rights prevail.

JLAC is implementing a project funded by ForumCiv with partnership with two organizations, Shoruq Organization as a local partner and SWEDO-The Swedish Development Aid organization as an international partner. The project is intended to equip Palestinian youth with the needed knowledge, skills & tools to advocate for human rights in the West Bank / Palestine”.

JLAC is looking for an inclusion expert. Interested experts shall submit their offers latest by Tuseday, 04/07/2023, 4:00 PM.

Objective of the Assignment:

This consultancy aims to seamlessly integrate inclusion principles and practices into JLAC's and Shoruq Organisation's existing manuals, policies, and procedures while advancing the inclusion of marginalised groups throughout the organisations' programs/projects cycle. The primary objective of the Inclusion Expert is to provide expertise, guidance, and support to JLAC and its partner under the project “Equipping Palestinian Youth with the Knowledge, Skills & Tools to Advocate for Human RightsIn the West Bank / Palestine” in developing and implementing inclusive policies, practices, and programmes, working closely with JLAC staff, partners, and stakeholders. Together, we strive to ensure that our activities are accessible and inclusive to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Scope of Work:

Over a period of 6 months, the Inclusion Expert will undertake the following key responsibilities:

• Conducting a comprehensive assessment:
  • 1.1. Assessing the current inclusivity level within JLAC, identifying gaps and areas for improvement.
  • 1.2. Reviewing JLAC's manuals, policies, and procedures, alongside those of the Shoruq Organisation, to discern any deficiencies regarding inclusion principles.
  • 1.3. Reviewing training materials and approach to give an advice on how the anticipated inclusion strategies will be enforced.
• Developing an inclusion strategy and materials:
  • 2.1. Developing a clear and actionable inclusion strategy for both entities (JLAC and Shoruq organisations), aligned with its mission and goals.
  • 2.2. Harmonizing the literature and organisational structure of both entities (JLAC and Shoruq organisations), ensuring alignment with inclusion requirements and fostering a comprehensive approach.
  • 2.3. Developing indispensable materials such as a "Do No Harm" policy and a Diversity and Inclusion Policy and delivering the requisite knowledge and guidance to facilitate adherence to inclusion principles. All deliverables will be meticulously drafted in English and Arabic, employing a language of exceptional quality.
• Engage in meaningful consultations (around 6 in-depth meetings) with relevant staff members from JLAC and the Shoruq Organisation, eliciting valuable insights and perspectives to ensure the effective implementation of inclusion principles.
• Capacity building and training:
  • 4.1. Conduct four comprehensive training sessions for relevant team members from both organizations, cultivating a deeper understanding of inclusion concepts and presenting newly developed materials pertaining to this domain.
• Policy development and implementation:
  • 5.1. Reviewing and revising both entities (JLAC and Shoruq organisations) policies and procedures to ensure they are inclusive and non-discriminatory.
  • 5.2. Developing guidelines and protocols for accommodating diverse needs and creating an inclusive environment.

Desired Competencies, Technical Background, and Experience:

The Inclusion Expert shall possess the following qualifications:

• Education:
  • 1.1. A master's degree in development, human rights, civil society, or a relevant field, showcasing a profound understanding of the subject matter.
  • 1.2. Specialised training or certification in diversity and inclusion practices is highly desirable
• Experience:
  • 2.1. At least five years of professional experience in the field of inclusion, diversity, or human rights, specifically in diversity and inclusion, demonstrating an acute awareness of the Palestinian context and its intricacies.
  • 2.2. Proven experience in designing and implementing inclusive policies and practices in an organisational setting.
  • 2.3. Familiarity with legal aid organisations or human rights NGOs would be an advantage.
• 3.Skills and Knowledge:
  • 3.1. In-depth understanding of inclusion concepts, theories, and best practices.
  • 3.2. Strong analytical and research skills to assess inclusivity gaps and propose effective solutions.
  • 3.3. Excellent communication and training facilitation skills to engage diverse audiences.
  • 3.4. Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Arabic.
  • 3.5. Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
  • 3.6. Exceptional time management abilities, characterized by the capacity to meet deadlines and deliver work of the utmost quality within the prescribed time frame.
  • 3.7. Flexibility to travel between different cities in the West Bank as necessary, ensuring the requirements of the assignment are duly met.

Duration and Reporting:

This consultancy has a duration of 6 months. The start date will be determined upon discussions and preferrably upon signing the contract . The Inclusion Expert shall report directly to the Executive Director of JLAC, providing regular progress reports and updates pertaining to the assigned tasks, and collaborate closely with the relevant program managers and staff.

Notes:

• Prices in USD including VAT.
• A valid deduction at source certificate should be provided or else 10% of the total payment will be deducted as income tax.
• JLAC maintains it right to cancel the RFQ.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation and interview.
• JLAC is not obliged to contract with the lowest prices.
• JLAC is firmly committed to equal opportunity employment and actively encourages applications from all qualified individuals, irrespective of race, religion, gender, or disability status. Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

Submission criteria:

• Interested candidates are requested to submit the following documents:
  • 1. Technical and Financial Offers.
  • 2. A comprehensive curriculum vitae, meticulously delineating relevant experience and qualifications.
  • 3. A thoughtfully crafted cover letter expressing sincere interest and outlining the candidate's approach to promoting inclusion within the context of JLAC and the Shoruq Organisation. In addition, the cover letter shall outline the experience, skills and knowledge as described in the (Desired Competencies, Technical Background, and Experience) section above.
• Offers must be submitted in a closed, sealed and stamped envelope latest by Tuesday, 04/07/2023, 4:00 PM. at JLAC’s office: Ramallah Al Irsal, Kamal Nasser St., Millennium Bld, 3rd floor.

Evaluation criteria:

Received offers will be evaluated based on the following criterial conditions:

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on the following contact details: Telfax:  02-2987981, Email: [email protected]