IOM : Lead Research Consultant (trafficking and smuggling offenses in the Arab region) – Riyadh

UNFPA - United Nations Population Fund

JOB DESCRIPTION

Project Context and Scope:

IOM and NAUSS signed a partnership agreement on the 14th of November 2022 to open and co-manage the Arab Centre for Technical Cooperation in Migration and Border Management on the University Campus in Riyadh. The overall objective of the initial 3-year programme is to strengthen technical cooperation in immigration and border management and enhance regional capacity and cooperation on migration management through the establishment of a Centre of expertise providing technical, legal, operational and policy support in the Arab region. Conducting joint research studies on topics of shared interest for the use of Member States is one of the activities carried out under this project. For 2025, three (3) research studies have been approved in the work plan. This consultant will lead the study on “Mechanisms for detecting and preventing terrorist activities at the borders.

Topic of the research study:

Human trafficking and migrant smuggling are pressing global issues that significantly impact the Arab region. Both crimes involve the exploitation of vulnerable populations but differ in their legal definitions and implications. Human trafficking is characterized by oppression and exploitation, while migrant smuggling involves facilitating illegal entry into a country for financial gain.

This study aims to explore the legal and judicial frameworks surrounding human trafficking and migrant smuggling in the Arab region. By examining the definitions, legal instruments, enforcement practices, and judicial responses to these crimes, the research seeks to highlight similarities and differences between the two phenomena. The findings aim to inform policymakers, legal practitioners, and NGOs working in the area of human rights and migration.

The research focuses on the Arab region aims to review relevant international treaties such as the UN Protocols on Trafficking and Smuggling, alongside regional agreements like the Arab Convention against Corruption. It will evaluate court cases related to human trafficking and migrant smuggling to identify trends and challenges in the judicial process. The legal framework will cover an overview of international laws, including the Palermo Protocols, and an examination of national laws in the selected Arab countries to identify gaps and inconsistencies. Additionally, the study will assess law enforcement agency capabilities and training in handling trafficking and smuggling cases, alongside analyzing judicial outcomes such as conviction rates, sentencing, and victim protection measures.

Organizational Department / Unit to which the Consultant is contributing
IB.0355 – The Arab Centre for Technical Cooperation on Migration and Border Management.
Tasks to be performed under this contract

1.    First deliverable – Submission of the initial preparatory package, composed of: 1. Clear study workplan, 2. study methodology, 3. NAUSS template for preparing “security study plan” and 4. the study outline for IOM’s approval
2.    Second deliverable – Submission of the first draft of the complete research report with documented sources and references (IOM’s portion)
3.    Third deliverable – Submission of the research study final report, inclusive of NAUSS expert’s consolidated portion, ready for translation and publication by NAUSS research department, alongside with one (1) PowerPoint presentation encompassing a visual summary of the research study, including the recommendations

Performance indicators for the evaluation of results
–    Deliverable of a coherent and realistic workplan, including methodology for the research to undertake.
–    Good collaboration with the research team, especially the research expert assigned by NAUSS to the study.
–    Timeliness of deliverables.
–    Clear and reliable communication on progress and possible needs for adjustments foreseen.
–    Well-structured research report including executive summary and conclusion with concrete recommendations for policy makers and practitioners on the topic.
Education

–    Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as migration studies, international relations, law, political science, sociology or another social science; or
–    A BS degree in combination of 6 years working experience in conducting research on relevant topics to this study.

Experience

–    Extensive knowledge and expertise on the use of border management, preferably in the Middle East and North Africa region.
–    Technical expertise and proven experience on Artificial Intelligence in a border management context.
–    Previous experience conducting comparative research on policy, preferable including law enforcement, national security, or defense authorities.
–    Demonstrated experience in conducting research studies on thematic relevant to this study.

Languages:

•     Fluency is English is required.
•     Fluency in Arabic is a distinctive advantage.

IOM’s official languages are English, French and Spanish.
Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.
Required Competencies
IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.
Values – all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these three values:
  • Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
  • Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
  • Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
  • Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
  • Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.
Core Competencies – behavioural indicators
  • Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
  • Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
  • Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
  • Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
  • Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.
Notes
  1. Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation..
  2. IOM covers Consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan (CP), free of charge, for the duration of the consultancy. IOM does not provide evacuation or medical insurance for reasons related to non-occupational accidents and illnesses. Consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accident or illness and will be required to provide written proof of such coverage before commencing work.
  3. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.
  4. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.
  5. IOM only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system. The online tool also allows candidates to track the status of their application.
For further information and other job postings, you are welcome to visit our website: IOM Careers and Job Vacancies

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements


Apply for job

To help us track our recruitment effort, please indicate in your cover/motivation letter where (globalvacancies.org) you saw this job posting.

Job Location