Consultancy: Pathways for IDPs in Duhok to Access Government Social Protection Services
Project: European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO)-funded

Protection Project, CARE Iraq and The Lotus Flower

Project Title: Increase Access to General Response and Protection Services for IDPs Living in Informal Settlements in Sumel and Zakho Districts in Duhok Governorate

Site Visits: Duhok Governorate

Duration:  A maximum of 10 days

Background

CARE Iraq, in partnership with The Lotus Flower, is implementing a protection project funded by the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) in Duhok governorate. Now in its second year, this project delivers diverse protection services to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the informal settlements Zakho and Sumel Districts.

Through a comprehensive approach encompassing awareness raising, case management, cash assistance, and mental health support, the project aims to empower the target community, raise awareness on protection issues, and address urgent needs.

One critical component of the project is providing cash assistance to help IDPs secure necessary civil documentation, which is essential for accessing government social protection services. Currently, CARE Iraq seeks a consultant to map the steps for IDPs with an Iraqi civil ID to access these services and identify the barriers they face, specifically from the perspective of individuals in the targeted informal settlements.

Objective of the Consultancy

To develop a clear, actionable pathway for IDPs residing in informal settlements in Duhok to access government-supported social protection services, identifying challenges, bottlenecks, and possible support mechanisms, specifically for IDPs from Sinjar.

Scope of Work

The consultant will be required to:

1. Mapping Process
• Identify and document the procedural steps and requirements for IDPs holding an Iraqi civil ID to access government social protection services and resources.

• Highlight key government offices, processes, and administrative requirements that IDPs must navigate.

1. Challenges Analysis
• Conduct an analysis of barriers faced by IDPs in accessing social protection services, particularly administrative, legal, cultural, and logistical obstacles.

• Document unique challenges faced by women, children, and vulnerable individuals among the IDP population, including the impact of language, limited awareness, and potential discrimination.

1. Stakeholder Engagement
• Engage with relevant government entities, local authorities, community leaders, and IDPs to ensure accuracy of collected information.
• Collaborate with local organizations and field staff to ensure accurate representation of IDPs' experiences and needs.

Methodology:

1. Literature Review

• Conduct a literature review on social protection services available in Iraq, with a particular focus on those accessible to individuals originally from Sinjar. Summarize key findings in the final report, clearly outlining government-supported social protection services that could potentially be available to Iraqis from Sinjar.

2. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs)

• Conduct KIIs with relevant government officials, local authorities, and representatives from social protection and welfare offices.
• The KIIs should focus on gathering insights into the formal processes, administrative requirements, and specific challenges in facilitating access to social protection for IDPs with a particular focus on those originally from Sinjar.

3. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)

• Organize FGDs with IDPs across the informal settlement sites
• These discussions should focus on IDPs' lived experiences, perceived barriers, and practical challenges in accessing social protection services, with attention to vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly.

Deliverables

1. Report
• A report combining findings from the literature review, process map, barriers, and any actionable recommendations.

Consultant Qualifications

• Advanced degree in social sciences, law, public policy, or related field, with a focus on social protection work.
• Proven experience in mapping processes and conducting needs assessments within a protection context, particularly with IDP populations.
• Strong understanding of the social protection landscape in Iraq
• Demonstrated ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including government entities and community leaders, and translate insights into actionable recommendations.
• Fluency in Arabic and English; Kurdish language skills an asset.

Interested consultants should submit their proposals, including  Resume with relevant experience and Proposed financial budget, to

hr-iraq@care.de by 29th May 2025.

Notes:

Please write name of the position "Consultant: Consultancy: Pathways for IDPs in Duhok to Access Government Social Protection Services" in the subject line otherwise it will not be considered. 

 
CARE has zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and child abuse. CARE takes all concerns and complaints about sexual harassment, exploitation and sexual abuse as well as child abuse by CARE staff and related personnel very seriously. CARE International has therefore drawn up the CARE International Safeguarding Policy on Protection from Sexual Harassment, Exploitation and Abuse, and Child Abuse CARE staff and its related personnel must adhere to CARE's core values which are Transformation, Integrity, Diversity, Equality, and Excellence.

-For any inquiries regarding this position, please contact CARE Iraq HR Manager through nmirza@care.de"