Date of Announcement: December 25, 2024​

Submission Deadline: January 8, 2025, by 5:30 PM

• Overview

The Forum for Women, Law, and Development (FWLD) under the project of USAID Hamro Samman II in collaboration with USAID and Winrock International, invites proposals for a comprehensive study aimed at identifying the key factors contributing to low prosecution rates of human trafficking and transportation cases. The study will also explore on the gaps in number of cases published by different agencies like NHRC, Nepal Police and cases filed in the court along with other inter-related issues.

• Objectives

The primary objectives of the study are:

1. To identify and analyze systemic and procedural factors contributing to low prosecution rates in human trafficking cases.
2. To develop actionable recommendations for improving prosecution rates through advocacy, policy reforms, and capacity-building measures.

• Scope of Work

The selected consultant team will conduct an in-depth study, adopting mixed method approach, on factors contributing to low prosecution rates.  It will analyze case files vs. prosecutions vs final decisions over time. The study will visualize case files and prosecution trends; gather information from justice sector actors, court officials, and investigating police officials; identify strengths and weaknesses of the judicial system that prevent victims from filing cases or seeking legal assistance; and will examine the reasons behind the low rate of TIP cases being reported and look for opportunities for improvement. This study will provide insights to the Nepal government and judiciary to understand the current situation and implement appropriate policies, strategies, and measures to create a more supportive environment for increasing TIP prosecution rates. Its findings and actions for improvements will contribute to addressing the Nepal’s downgrading to Tiee 2 Watch Level of human trafficking. Thus, the findings from this study will validate and corroborate the findings and learning of previous studies in terms of prosecution processes in CTIP and utilize learnings for evidence-based advocacy towards improving these rates based on agreed methodologies. It shall include following along with following aspects:

• Identify legal and procedural obstacles to successful prosecutions, including issues related to law enforcement, judicial practices, victim testimony, evidence handling, and case backlogs.
• Analyze case studies and trends in prosecution outcomes for human trafficking cases, highlighting both success stories and challenges.
• Assess the impact of advocacy by NGOs, international organizations, and other stakeholders on prosecution rates and legal reforms.
• Deliver a comprehensive report with findings, analysis, and recommendations to guide actions for addressing the gaps.

• Deliverables

The selected research team will deliver the following:

• Comprehensive Report: A detailed document presenting findings on factors affecting prosecution rates along with actionable recommendations aimed at improving prosecution rates through institutional reforms and advocacy initiatives.
• The consultant should share the draft report and incorporate feedback from FWLD and USAID HS II. Additionally, the consultant is expected to prepare a presentation for the public dissemination event and submit the final report thereafter.

• Educational Qualifications and Experience

Ideal candidates or research teams should meet the following criteria:

• A master’s degree in law, gender studies, public policy, or related fields.
• At least five years of experience in conducting research, policy review, and gender analysis.
• Strong understanding of national and international frameworks on human trafficking and transportation, and women’s rights.
• Proficiency in both English and Nepali, with excellent writing and analytical skills.

• Submission Instructions

Qualified and interested candidates or research teams are invited to submit the following documents:

• Expression of Interest: A detailed proposal outlining the approach, methodology, and timeline for completing the study.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): For all team members, including PAN numbers.

Applications must be submitted by 4:30 PM, January 8, 2025, through one of the following methods:

Physically: Submit at the FWLD office.

Electronically: Email submissions to info@fwld.org.

Late applications will not be considered.

• Inquiries

For further information, please contact FWLD via email or phone:

Email: info@fwld.org

Phone: +977-1-5333525, +977-1-5333524, +977-1-5366415

Note: Remuneration details will be discussed during interviews with shortlisted candidates.

FWLD looks forward to receiving innovative and insightful proposals that will contribute to the fight against human trafficking through evidence-based research and advocacy.