MWH is seeking a Tribal Communities Expert to support the preparation of an environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) and associated field studies for a proposed multi-purpose dam in Pakistan. The proposed dam site is located on the Indus River in the Diamer District of Gilgit Baltistan, which is the northernmost territory administered by Pakistan. The studies are being funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The ESIA is being prepared in accordance with the requirements of Pakistan and internationally recognized environmental and social safeguard standards such as those of the World Bank and Asia Development Bank (ADB).
Project affected communities are diverse, with significant cultural differences between neighboring valleys, and a social structure that has very strong tribal elements. A preliminary social screening of the project site has produced a wealth of information, building on previous work conducted for Pakistan’s Water and Development Authority (WAPDA). Further work is required to match the social assessment in the ESIA with recognized international practice, taking into account the identity, dignity, human rights, livelihood systems, and cultural specificities of the affected communities, and identifying measures to ensure that these communities (i) do not suffer adverse impacts as a result of the project, (ii) can participate actively in the project, and (iii) receive culturally appropriate social and economic benefits from the project.
The primary responsibilities of the Tribal Communities Expert will be to:
1. Finalize the social screening of project affected communities; and
2. Elaborate a culturally appropriate Tribal Communities’ Development Plan for the project area, in line with international standards, such as the relevant policies of the ADB, IFC and the World Bank.
The preferred candidate should possess:
• A solid understanding of relevant international social safeguards policies, particularly measures and practices to ensure the effective inclusion of vulnerable, tribal or indigenous people in large scale infrastructure projects.
• At least 10 years of operational field experience working with tribal communities in South Asia, preferably in the context of large infrastructure projects in Pakistan, Afghanistan or Bangladesh.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and writing skills.
• Demonstrated experience working constructively on multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams.
• Prior experience working with, or on projects funded by, the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, or other international donor.
The appointment is part time with a total estimated level of effort of 50-60 days over a 4-6 month period, beginning January 2016. It will require 2-3 missions to Pakistan, including missions to the project site. The candidate must be willing to travel to Pakistan and accept necessary security measures when working in the field.
Interested consultants should include in their application:
a) CV/resume
b) list of relevant experiences
c) statement of availability and willingness to work in the Diamer District
d) short technical and financial proposal (one page)
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If working on the best water and natural resources projects around the world, building on your talents through a premier knowledge-sharing culture, and connecting across borders with some of the world’s top talent appeals to you, join us.
