Project Proposal Development and Theory of Change Design for the next Mine Action and Cluster Munitions Programme from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign A

HI is looking for a consultant to support the project team in developing a robust project proposal and Theory of Change for submission under the Dutch MFA’s Mine Action and Cluster Munitions Programme. The consultant will ensure the proposal meets MFA policy requirements, incorporates conflict-sensitive programming, and reflects Dutch priorities of reducing violence and enhancing security, stabilisation, and socio-economic resilience in mine-affected regions.

1.CONTEXT
Handicap International (HI), operating name Humanity & Inclusion, is an independent and impartial aid organization working in situations of poverty and exclusion, conflict, and disaster. We work alongside people with disabilities and vulnerable populations, with partners and stakeholders, taking action and bearing witness to respond to their essential needs, improve their living conditions and promote respect for their dignity and fundamental rights.
HI is currently part of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Mine and Cluster Munitions Programme 2020-2024 which seeks to mitigate the humanitarian, security, and socio-economic impacts of landmines and cluster munitions. Aligned with the Netherlands’ commitment to peacebuilding, stability, and socio-economic recovery in post-conflict regions, the programme aims to support the clearance of explosive remnants of war, build local capacity, assist victims, and foster safe and resilient communities. This consultancy will facilitate the preparation of a project proposal and Theory of Change (ToC) for the next MACM, that align with Dutch MFA policies, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and global mine action standards.

2.DESCRIPTION OF THE EXPECTED SERVICE
HI is looking for a consultant to support the project team in developing a robust project proposal and Theory of Change for submission under the Dutch MFA’s Mine Action and Cluster Munitions Programme. The consultant will ensure the proposal meets MFA policy requirements, incorporates conflict-sensitive programming, and reflects Dutch priorities of reducing violence and enhancing security, stabilisation, and socio-economic resilience in mine-affected regions.
The consultant’s responsibilities will include:
Responsibility 1: Theory of Change Development (not more than 10 days)
The consultant will:
−Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment in consultation with stakeholders to inform the project scope and objectives
−Design a Theory of Change that incorporates primary and secondary goals as per Dutch MFA policy:
Primary Goal: Reduce threats to human safety by mitigating the risks posed by landmines and explosive remnants.
Secondary Goal: Support socio-economic reconstruction and build local capacity.

−Integrate cross-cutting themes such as gender equality, diversity, inclusion, and conflict sensitivity.
−Develop SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound) outcome indicators to facilitate monitoring and evaluation in line with MFA’s reporting standards.

Responsibility 2: Project Proposal Drafting (not more than 20 days)
The consultant will:
−Together with the country teams, perform a contextual analysis that identifies conflict sensitivity risks and aligns with MFA’s emphasis on stability, social cohesion, and protection of vulnerable groups.
−Together with the country teams, facilitate consultations with local authorities, CSOs, affected communities, and other stakeholders to incorporate their insights and priorities into the project design.
−Draft a comprehensive project proposal that aligns with the Dutch MFA policy framework, integrating strategic action plans, outcome indicators, and clear linkages to the Dutch Security and Rule of Law ToC published in January 2023.
−Include evidence-based strategies, an outline of capacity-building activities, and an approach to enhance institutional sustainability for local partners.
−Outline a risk management and conflict sensitivity plan, ensuring flexibility to adapt to changing local dynamics.

3 The expected qualifications and competencies required for the consultancy include:
−Extensive experience in project proposal development, particularly in humanitarian mine action, security programming, or post-conflict reconstruction.
−A solid understanding of Dutch MFA policies, including the “Investing in Global Prospects” framework, and the Netherlands’ commitments to the Ottawa Treaty, Oslo Convention, and relevant SDGs.
−Proven skills in participatory approaches, gender-responsive programming, and designing conflict-sensitive interventions.

4.DURATION AND PLACE OF PERFORMANCE OF THE SERVICE
The consultancy preferably starts the 27th of January for a total duration of 20 days. The final deliverable, the completed project proposal, should be submitted a few days before the call deadline (23rd of February). Exact date will be discussed with the team.
5.DELIVERABLES
The consultant will provide the following:
−A work plan outlining key activities, timelines, and methodologies within one week of the start date.
−A Stakeholder consultation report summarising key insights and feedback from stakeholder engagements.
−A Theory of Change document presenting a detailed ToC, with narrative and visual representation, showing logical connections between proposed outcomes and impacts.
−A draft project proposal for internal review, incorporating MFA policy requirements.
−A final project proposal after incorporating feedback from the internal review

6.CONTACT PERSON
During the performance of the service, the consultant will be required to work in liaison with Humanity & Inclusion’s teams, and notably with the Armed Violence Reduction Grants & Project Development Officer, who will be his/her contact person. The consultant shall ensure quality and timely delivery of the expected results and will inform the team of the progress as well as any obstacles that might occur.
7.BUDGET AND PAYMENT
The budget will be based on an agreed daily rate, covering all consultancy fees and applicable taxes. For its decision HI will take into consideration a value over money approach. Payment will be structured as follows:
−30% upon signing
−50% upon delivery of the first draft
−20% upon approval of the final report