Job Description

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), operating in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, aiding people to survive, reclaim control of their future, and strengthen their communities. IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions. If you're a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, join us in positively impacting lives worldwide for a better future.

About Moving Minds Alliance

MMA started as a donor collaborative in 2017, focusing on increasing early childhood development in emergencies (ECDiE) within the humanitarian sector. It has evolved into a multi-stakeholder alliance advocating for ECDiE in every crisis response, leveraging diverse actors from local to global levels.

We envision a world where families and communities affected by crises can nurture the wellbeing and development of their young children and uphold their rights.

MMA's Strategic Priorities 2025-2030

1. Grow and develop the community of ECDiE advocates
2. Accelerate innovation and new ways of working in the current crisis response system
3. Generate and promote uptake of research, evidence, and learning for advocacy in ECDiE

MMA has established itself as a thought leader through innovative research and advocacy engagement. Between 2022 and 2023, it developed a comprehensive Young Children in Crisis Settings advocacy toolkit, providing systematic evidence about the impact of crises on young children and emphasizing the importance of holistic, integrated early childhood development services aligned with the nurturing care framework.

Purpose of Consultancy

The primary goal is to develop an evidence-based thematic brief on the impact of crises and displacement on young children with disabilities (0-8 years) and the importance of holistic ECDiE services.

Young children with disabilities face compounded vulnerabilities during crises, with increased risks of neglect, abuse, and exclusion. Pre-existing challenges are worsened by the breakdown of essential services, hindering early intervention and support. This brief will serve as a resource for humanitarian actors, policymakers, and practitioners to understand and support these children and their caregivers during crises.

Scope of Work

• Conduct a literature review on disability inclusion in humanitarian action, ECDiE, and caregiver support, focusing on children aged 0-8.
• Analyze existing data on the impact of crises on young children with disabilities and their caregivers.
• Develop a 15-20 page concise, accessible thematic brief addressing the needs of children with diverse disabilities, providing practical, action-oriented recommendations for inclusive ECDiE services.
• The brief should articulate challenges faced, explain the necessity of holistic services, emphasize caregiver support, and include case studies from various settings.

Deliverables

• An inception report outlining approach, methodology, and timeline.
• A draft, referenced thematic brief for review.
• A consultation workshop with experts, including a report.
• The final, referenced brief in English.

Timeline

The consultancy spans 10 weeks, with a deadline for the final brief on July 31st.

Partner/Consultant Requirements

The ideal candidate will have:

• An advanced degree in disability studies, ECD, humanitarian studies, or related fields.
• Knowledge of relevant human rights instruments and guidelines.
• Extensive experience in disability inclusion in humanitarian contexts, especially crises and displacement.
• Understanding of the needs of children with disabilities and their caregivers.
• Experience in developing knowledge products like briefs and reports.
• Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills, with inclusive methodologies and caregiver-centered approaches.
• Experience working with international organizations or humanitarian agencies.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• A proposal (max 5 pages) with approach, timeline, and budget.
• A CV highlighting relevant experience.
• Two examples of previous knowledge products.

Proposals from individuals with lived experience of crises or displacement are encouraged. Applications are assessed on a rolling basis, and MMA may close the call early if a suitable candidate is found.

Professional Conduct

The IRC and its staff adhere to the IRC Way Code of Conduct: Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.

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