Consultant : Developing Two Policy Papers on Water Justice and Food Sovereignty for AFSC work in the Region via ReliefWeb

Founded in 1917, the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) is an international organization that works with communities and partners worldwide to challenge unjust systems and promote lasting peace. In collaboration with communities and local partners, we nurture the seeds of change and respect for human life that transform social relations and systems. AFSC’s programs foster understanding and reconciliation, promote economic development and food security, educate the public on various social issues, and foster diversity, inclusion, and equality in communities around the world

PURPOSE OF THE CONSULTANCY

The purpose of this consultancy is to support the development of two concise policy papers—one on water justice and one on food sovereignty—grounded in the principles of climate justice and informed by the lived experiences of marginalized communities in the region. The region is among the most climate-vulnerable globally, facing intensified challenges such as aridity, recurrent drought, water scarcity, and food insecurity, all of which disproportionately impact already vulnerable populations with limited adaptive capacity. This work aligns with the American Friends Service Committee’s (AFSC) commitment to advancing economic, environmental, and social justice through community-centered approaches. The policy papers will contribute to AFSC’s broader efforts to influence policy and support advocacy that uplifts local and regional voices, promotes equitable access to resources, and addresses the structural injustices that exacerbate vulnerability in the face of climate change.

1. SCOPE OF WORK:

The consultant will:

1. Collaborate with the AFSC Team
   1. Develop the policy papers in line with the AFSC’s goals.
   2. Integrate input from stakeholders.
2. Conduct Data Collection and Analysis
   1. Use quantitative and qualitative methods, including interviews, focus groups, and surveys.
   2. Ensure inclusivity and cultural relevance in data synthesis.
3. Draft and Finalize the Policy Papers
   1. Submit a first draft incorporating stakeholder feedback.
   2. Revise and deliver the final, polished documents.
4. Present Findings
   1. Prepare a PowerPoint summary for stakeholder discussions.
5. RESPONSIBILITY

• Data Analysis: Analyze collected data to inform the policy paper.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Incorporate diverse perspectives from experts, academics, and other contributors.
• Drafting: Prepare a professional, cohesive two policy papers aligned with AFSC’s vision.
• Feedback Integration: Revise drafts based on input from the AFSC team and stakeholders.
• Timely Delivery: Complete all tasks within the agreed timeline.

1. DURATION OF THE ROLE

The consultancy will be conducted between June 30th to August 30th, 2025, to the specific level of effort for the consultant is based on the agreed work plan that will be finalized with the contract.

KEY DELIVERABLES AND TIMELINE (NEGOTIABLE AND TO BE FINALIZED WITH AFSC STAFF)

Inception Report – A work plan detailing methodology and tools – July 3rd, 2025

Draft Policy Paper – An initial draft reflects data and stakeholder input – August 7th, 2025

Final Policy Paper – A polished, comprehensive document – August 28th, 2025

The above timeline is negotiable and subject to change based on consultation with AFSC staff.

1. QUALIFICATIONS

• An entity consultant/consultancy firm/group with at least 3-8 years of experience in the research and/or evaluation field including quantitative and qualitative data collection, analyzing quantitative and qualitative data, and reporting.
• Experience in context analysis is a must.
• Proven Experience of the climate justice work in the region.
• Proven record of previous similar studies.
• Proficiency in Arabic and English .

interested organizations/individual consultants are requested to submit proposals including the following documents:

• The CV includes contact details of 3 references.
• Include samples of previous work.
• Detailed response to TOR (Terms of Reference), including technical proposal with specific focus addressing the purpose and objectives of the assignment, methodology to be used and key selection criteria.
• Financial Proposal: Detailed budget breakdown in USD based on expected daily rates and initial work plan.
• Initial draft of the proposed work plan.

How to apply

The proposal must be submitted no later than June 17th to Tagreed Odeh at: twilliam@afsc.org with Safwat Shibly in copy at: sshibly@afsc.org

Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed as soon as they are received. Early submissions are encouraged.

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

The American Friends Service Committee is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified persons are encouraged to apply regardless of their religious affiliation, race, age, sex, gender identity**,** sexual orientation, or disability.

The American Friends Service Committee is a smoke-free workplace