Consultant – Research on Economic Impact of the Sudan conflict on Women

Position: Consultant to Conduct Research – Economic Impact of the Sudan Conflict on Women (01)

Department: Programme

Location: Sudan or Remotely

Timeline of Consultancy: 30 days over 8 weeks (March 15 – May 15)

Application Deadline: 05th March 2024, 05pm EAT

Organizational Background:

The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) is a civil society coalition bringing together grassroots women’s rights organizations from Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Somaliland, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, and Uganda. Established in 1995, SIHA aims to strengthen the capacity of women’s rights organizations in the Horn of Africa, contributing to the empowerment of women and advocating for effective change. SIHA operates as a regional platform for mobilizing activists, vulnerable groups, and marginalized women, men, and girls to challenge the root causes of problems faced by women and girls in the Horn of Africa Region. More information about SIHA is available at www.sihanet.org

Background of Consultancy:

Sudan has been plagued by protracted conflict, characterized by widespread human rights violations, sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and systemic inequalities. The escalation of hostilities has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, displacing millions of civilians and destabilizing communities across the country. The impact of the conflict is particularly acute for women and girls who face heightened risks of violence, exploitation, and displacement. Amidst the turmoil, feminist networks and grassroots women’s groups have emerged as key actors in advocating for peace, social justice, and gender equality in Sudan. These groups, comprising courageous activists and advocates, have mobilized to address the unique needs and challenges faced by women and girls affected by the conflict. Despite facing formidable obstacles, including intimidation, violence, and militarization, feminist initiatives have persisted in their efforts to resist oppression, promote women’s rights, and build resilient communities.

It is against the backdrop that SIHA is implementing the “Feminist Peace for Sudan” project, which aims to amplify the voices and contributions of grassroots women’s groups in Sudan during the conflict, highlighting their resilience, resistance to violence, and efforts towards peacebuilding. Through various activities and outputs, the project aims to document feminist initiatives, research the conflict’s economic impact on women, and advocate for gender-inclusive peace processes.

Objectives of the Consultancy:

This consultancy aims to produce a research paper focusing on the economic impact of the Sudan conflict on women, particularly examining the impact of looting in and around Khartoum. The research will dive into the lived experiences of women and analyze gender dynamics related to looting, including whether women are targeted differently, the vulnerability of certain groups of women to looting, how it affects their economic situation, and potential intersections with other forms of violence. The paper will provide critical insights into gender disparities in access to resources, economic opportunities, and basic services after women’s life savings have been looted. In addition, the consultancy aims to explore the coping mechanisms that women have created to survive during the war. with the goal of offering solutions to mitigate these challenges for a more inclusive and prosperous post-conflict future.

Scope of Work:

• Conduct a comprehensive study on the economic impact of looting on women in conflict-affected areas of Sudan, with a focus on Khartoum.
• Analyze the gender dynamics at play in instances of looting, including the differential impact on various groups of women.
• Explore how looting intersects with other forms of violence and its implications for women.
• Provide recommendations for addressing the economic challenges faced by women due to looting.

Methodology:

The methodology for this study will adopt a hybrid approach, integrating remote data collection methods with available data sources and literature review. This entails conducting phone interviews with affected women, analyzing economic indicators quantitatively, and comprehensively reviewing existing literature on conflict-related gender dynamics. Community engagement will be prioritized, involving local communities and women’s groups to ensure a participatory approach. Input from community leaders and directly impacted women will inform the research process, enhancing its relevance and depth.

Furthermore, a mixed-methods approach will supplement remote data collection, combining qualitative techniques such as in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with quantitative data analysis to offer comprehensive insights into women’s experiences. Intersectional analysis will be applied to recognize the diverse identities and vulnerabilities of women affected by looting, considering factors like age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, and disability. Ethical considerations will guide the research process, ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, and prioritization of respondents’ well-being. Additionally, capacity building initiatives will involve training local researchers and enumerators to enhance research quality and sustainability within the community. Triangulation of data and stakeholder engagement with key actors will further validate findings and ensure transparency and accountability throughout the study.

Activities:

• Conduct desk research detailing the research methodology, including the approach to remote data collection, data analysis techniques, and plans for community engagement and stakeholder involvement, including a timeline.
• Conduct study, including key informants and Focus Group Discussions with stakeholders to gather and document evidence.
• Meeting with SIHA team to disseminate findings in draft report and receive feedback.
• Drafting of final report incorporating any feedback & Policy Briefs
• Presentation of findings to Stakeholders

Deliverables:

• An inception report & meeting which will serve as a roadmap for the research process, outlining the steps to be taken.
• A draft report document of 25 to 30 pages (excluding annexes and data samples) outlining the findings and analysis of the research. The report should present key insights, trends, and recommendations derived from the research process.

Key Competencies and Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in conducting research on gender issues in conflict settings.
• Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of the socio-economic and political context of Sudan, particularly the dynamics of conflict and its impact on women. Familiarity with the cultural nuances and gender norms prevalent in Sudanese society is crucial for contextualizing research findings accurately.
• Ability to conduct gender-sensitive analysis and intersectional assessments, considering factors such as age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, and disability. The candidate should be adept at integrating a gender perspective into research design, data collection, and analysis to uncover gender disparities and vulnerabilities.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to articulate complex research findings clearly and concisely. Proficiency in report writing and presentation skills is necessary for effectively communicating research outcomes to diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, practitioners, and community members.
• Commitment to upholding ethical standards in research, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality and anonymity, and prioritizing the well-being of research participants. The candidate should adhere to ethical guidelines and protocols for research involving vulnerable populations, particularly in conflict-affected contexts.
• Strong analytical and report writing skills.