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Background
Since 1995, Ethiopia has adopted a multiparty parliamentary system and a federal structure devolving power to nine regions and two city administrations. The Constitution established a bi-cameral parliamentary form of Government with two houses. The framework of governance includes a system of political representation based on the holding of local (every 2.5 years) and nation-wide elections (every 5 years), and the formation of a set of legislative institutions at all levels, including, at the apex`, the two houses of the national parliament (the House of Peoples Representatives (HoPR) and the House of Federation (HoF).
Under the current Constitution, the country held five general elections, the last being in May 2015. Among all elections, only the 2005 election was characterized by improved political space and competition between political parties.
Ethiopia has embarked on a path of reforms and political renewal. With the new leadership of Dr. Abiy Ahmed, the Government has systematically invested in the opening of the political space and has lifted many of the restrictions that were placed on political participation. The most notable development was the lifting of 'terror labels' of several previously outlawed political parties. The return of opposition parties has enriched the political debate and has been a clear indication of the Government and the Ruling Coalition to engage in an open and more inclusive political process. This is expected to have a direct bearing on the upcoming general elections planned for 2020.
The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has recently seen its leadership changed. Former Judge Birtukan Midekssa was appointed in November 2018 as the new Chairwoman of NEBE. The change of NEBE's leadership reconfirmed the Government's commitment to reform the institution and enhance its credibility within the political sphere but also among the general public. NEBE has faced reputational challenges and was heavily criticized for being biased and partial in conducting previous elections. Investment in the Board's integrity, professionalism, and effectiveness has been included in the policy priority areas that were captured in the 'New Horizon of Hope' document, issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) following the most recent Cabinet reshuffle.
In response to the request by the Government of Ethiopia and with the view to support the reforms and general elections, the United Nations has performed a Needs Assessment Mission (NAM), which confirms that conditions were favorable for the United Nations to design and activate an elections programme/project of support. UNDP supported the development of the 'Supporting Elections for Ethiopia's Democratic Strengthening (SEEDS)', which was established in June 2019.
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of the International Training and Procedures Advisor and the Head of the NEBE Training Department, in coordination with relevant SEEDS project advisors, the incumbent will provide technical assistance to NEBE on all training and procedures matters pertaining to the implementation of the electoral process. The expert will also support translations in Amharic and advice on compliance of training material and other operational forms with the legal framework for elections. The training and procedures specialist will work with other SEEDS advisors to ensure adherence to specific ICT systems with the established Ethiopian legal and operational framework and recognized international good practices and standards.
Specific duties include:
Deliverables:
INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT/REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
The selected National Consultant Training and Procedures Specialist will be based at the SEEDS project office and the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia as required. The selected Consultant will operate under the direct supervision of UNDP's SEEDS International Training and Procedures Advisor and overall guidance of the head of the NEBE training Department.
Competencies
The Consultant should possess the following competencies:
Corporate Competencies
Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN's values and ethical standards; Sensitivity to cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age differences. Fulfills all obligations to gender sensitivity and zero tolerance for sexual harassment; ability to exercise sound political judgment;
Functional Competencies
Required Skills and Experience
Education: Master's degree in Law, Political Sciences, International Relations, or related field.
Work Experience: