Researcher
Scope of Work
The researcher will be responsible for:
- Conducting a thorough literature review relevant to the violence and Gender Based Violence (GBV) against women and girls with disabilities in Lebanon will be undertaken in collaboration with the LUPD team in Baalbek area and BML area.
- Supporting in the implementation of data collection, including key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) with relevant stakeholders, including women and girls with disabilities, OPDs, service providers, local authorities, and NGOs to gather qualitative and/or quantitative data.
- Analyzing the data to identify gaps and strengths in the current systems.
- Writing a detailed research paper that follows the agreed-upon structure, including recommendations for policy and practice improvements.
- Collaborating with LUPD to ensure the research aligns with our specific advocacy goals.
- Presenting the findings and incorporating feedback.
Key Research Questions
The research will be guided by the following research question:
“What are the current gaps and strengths in reporting and protection mechanisms for women and girls with disabilities in Lebanon generally, and Baalbek and BML areas? and how can these systems be improved to enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and justice for survivors with disabilities? Which policies are to be strengthened and what partnership models with local authorities and community-based organizations should be built to support its functionality?”
The research should also answer the following sub-questions:
Local Level: targeting the communities of Baalbek area and BML area as well as local authorities and influencers / community leaders.
- Identify the predominant perception on Gender Equality in Baalbek area and BML area from the perspectives of the community and of local authorities or influencers:“What are the prevailing attitudes and beliefs about gender equality within the Baalbek and BML communities? How do these perceptions impact the experiences of women and girls with disabilities?”
- Identify the current gaps and challenges in the current reporting mechanism(s) in to Baalbek area and BML area: “What are the primary challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities in reporting incidents of violence and seeking protection in Baalbek and BML? Are there specific barriers related to cultural norms, accessibility, or the fear of stigmatization?”
- Analysis of the social tissue in Baalbek area and BML area: “How do social networks, cultural practices, and power dynamics within the Baalbek and BML communities influence the experiences of women and girls with disabilities? Are there any specific vulnerabilities or protective factors?” / “What existing community-based resources and support systems are available for women and girls with disabilities in these areas? How can they be strengthened and better utilized?”
- Identification of local support systems and initiatives particularly in Baalbeck and BML areas: “What are the existing local and community-based support systems and initiatives that promote the inclusion, empowerment, and access to justice for women and girls with disabilities? How can these initiatives be strengthened and scaled up to complement the formal reporting and protection mechanisms?”
National level: targeting the national bodies
- Legal and Policy Framework: “What are the key legal and policy frameworks in Lebanon that address the rights and protection of women and girls with disabilities? Are there any specific provisions that address the unique challenges faced by this population? How effective are the current law enforcement mechanisms, including the reporting procedures within the Internal Security Forces, in responding to incidents of violence against women and girls with disabilities? Are there any systemic issues or biases that need to be addressed?”
- Gaps and Recommendations: “What are the primary gaps and challenges in the current systems and structures for reporting and protecting women and girls with disabilities in Lebanon? What are the key recommendations for reform to enhance the reporting and protection mechanisms, including improvements in legal frameworks, law enforcement practices, and support services?”
- Stakeholder Engagement: “Who are the key stakeholders involved in promoting a safe and inclusive environment for women and girls with disabilities in Lebanon? What are their roles and responsibilities? How can these stakeholders collaborate more effectively to improve the responsiveness and sensitivity of law enforcement and the justice system in addressing violence against women and girls with disabilities?”
Methodology
The researcher is expected to:
- Review existing literature and relevant policy documents related to Baalbek area and BML area.
- Design a research methodology that includes qualitative and/or quantitative data collection methods.
- Support the team in conducting interviews, focus groups, or surveys with relevant stakeholders (e.g., local authorities, influencers, community-based organizations, survivors etc.).
- Analyze the data using appropriate methods.
- Ensure that the research is ethical and respects the confidentiality of participants.
Deliverables
- Inception Report: Outlining the research design, methodology, and timeline.
- Literature Review: A comprehensive review of existing protection mechanisms and relevant socio-cultural and legislative contexts specific to Baalbek area and BML area.
- Draft Research Paper: Initial draft of the paper for review and feedback.
- Final Research Paper: A final version of the paper, incorporating all feedback.
- A translated version of the paper in Arabic.
- Presentation: A summary of the research findings.
Timeline
The research is expected to end by April 30th, 2025. Below is a proposed timeline:
- Inception Report: 15 March 2025
- Literature Review: 31 March 2025
- Data Collection phase (through support in KIIs and FGDs): end 20 February
- Draft Research Paper: 8 April 2025
- Final Research Paper: 26 April 2025
- Presentation: 30 April 2025
Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate should have:
- PhD or a master’s degree in social sciences, gender studies, public policy, or a related field.
- Proven experience in conducting research on gender, disability, refugee issues, or related topics in the Middle East, preferably in Lebanon.
- Strong understanding of the Lebanese context, social, regulations, systems and structures.
- Strong understanding of socio-cultural, legislative, and institutional barriers in the context of Beirut-Mount Lebanon and Baalbeck areas is an added value.
- Excellent analytical, written and communication skills both in Arabic and English.
- At least five years of experience as a researcher or study leader.
- Proficiency in research design, research report writing, and source analysis
- Flexibility and adaptability to work as a team with other consultants
How to apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit:
- A cover letter outlining their relevant experience and approach to the research.
- A detailed CV.
- A sample of previous relevant work (e.g., research papers, reports).
- A proposed timeline and budget.
- A financial number for the applicant is a must
Applications should be sent to [info@lupd-lb.com] by January 27th,2025.
منتهية الصلاحية