National Consultant for Special Study – Myanmar

Background

SoCha is seeking a National Consultant to support the Third-Party Monitoring (TPM) project in Myanmar. This role involves conducting a two-phase special study on Accountability Mechanisms in Conflict-Affected Areas, with a focus on the implementation of Accountability to Affected People (AAP) and Complaints and Feedback Response Mechanisms (CFRMs). This special study aims to assess challenges and develop realistic, contextualized AAP and CFRM minimum standards for implementing partners (IPs) in Myanmar. The National Consultant will report to the AAP Consultant Lead and collaborate to deliver high-quality results for this special study.

Scope of Work

Research Design and Planning:

• Support the Team Lead to develop and refine the research design for the special study, integrating both qualitative and quantitative methods to comprehensively assess the effectiveness of current accountability mechanisms in Myanmar.
• Collaborate closely with key stakeholders, including the client, IPs, and sub-IPs to ensure that the study’s objectives align with operational needs, priorities, and the contextual realities on the ground.

Data Collection Phase 1:

• Literature review: Conduct a thorough review of AAP plans from IPs to assess the comprehensiveness and alignment of these plans with the client’s expectations. In addition, review other relevant resources from similar programs and contexts to identify common thematic challenges, lessons learned, and best practices.
• Support the collation of quantitative data from the primary database collected through TPM site visits, ensuring that data integrity, relevance, and accuracy are maintained throughout the process.

Data Collection Phase 2:

• Support the qualitative data collection process, including designing and conducting Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with representatives from IP organizations.

Data Analysis:

• Perform a thorough thematic analysis of qualitative data using tools such as NVivo, systematically categorizing responses according to key themes like consultation processes, timeliness, social inclusion, and challenges encountered.
• Conduct detailed statistical analysis of quantitative data, ensuring the data is disaggregated by gender, geographical location, and other relevant variables to uncover critical insights.
• Triangulate findings from both qualitative and quantitative data to validate results, enhance the robustness of the study, and ensure a comprehensive understanding of the accountability mechanisms in place.

Reporting and Recommendations:

• Contribute to revision of TPM monitoring tools on the specific areas of AAP and CFRM.
• Synthesize research findings into clear, concise, and actionable reports and presentations tailored to the needs of the client, its partners, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Develop strategic, evidence-based recommendations to enhance accountability to affected populations in Myanmar, with a focus on creating feasible strategies for implementation in non-permissive environments.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of AAP and CFRM minimum standards for IPs operating in Myanmar, drawing on research findings and best practices.

Ethical Considerations:

• Ensure that all research activities strictly adhere to ethical guidelines, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring participant confidentiality, and minimizing potential harm.
• Implement rigorous data anonymization procedures to protect the identities of respondents and maintain data integrity throughout the research process.
• Conduct an ongoing ethical risk assessment to identify and mitigate potential ethical issues, particularly given the sensitive and conflict-affected nature of the study environment.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced degree, preferably in social sciences, international development, humanitarian studies, or a related field.
• Proven experience in conducting qualitative and quantitative research, preferably in conflict-affected or non-permissive environments.
• Extensive knowledge on Myanmar’s humanitarian context, and practices.
• Familiarity with AAP and CFRM concepts in humanitarian settings.
• Experience with data analysis software such as NVivo and statistical tools for quantitative analysis is an asset.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage complex research projects.
• Cultural sensitivity and experience working in diverse, challenging environments.

Duration

Approximate 40 days (September 11, 2024 to October 31, 2024).

Location

Remote with possible field visits in Myanmar (Burma).