UNODC: National Consultant to Conduct a National Perception Study on Implementation of Community Service as a Non-Custodial Sentence in Uganda – New York

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Description

Job Description

Assignment Overview
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) seeks a consultant to conduct a national perception survey on Community Service in Uganda. This assignment will assess public attitudes, stakeholder perspectives, and the experiences of beneficiaries to support the effective implementation of Community Service as an alternative sentencing option.

Results/Deliverables

  1. Inception Report – detailing methodology, data collection tools, work plan, and stakeholder considerations.
  2. Data Collection Tools – design and administer surveys, interviews, and focus group discussion guides across selected districts.
  3. Fieldwork & Data Analysis – collect, analyze, and synthesize qualitative and quantitative data on perceptions and implementation of Community Service.
  4. Draft Assessment Report – present preliminary findings, analysis, and emerging recommendations.
  5. Validation Workshop – conduct sessions with UNODC and stakeholders to review and refine findings.
  6. Final Assessment Report – incorporate feedback and provide comprehensive findings, conclusions, recommendations, annexes, and datasets.
  7. Policy Brief – summarize key findings and actionable recommendations for policymakers and relevant stakeholders.

Work Location

Home-based with travel within Uganda.

Expected Duration

1 May – 15 September 2026

Background

UNODC supports Member States in preventing and countering illicit drugs, crime, corruption, and terrorism. In Uganda, UNODC collaborates with the Ministry of Internal Affairs – Department of Community Service under a five-year program to strengthen criminal justice and reduce reliance on imprisonment. Community Service, established under the Community Service Act (2000) and Regulations (2001), is a non-custodial sentence aimed at rehabilitating offenders, reducing recidivism, and promoting social cohesion.

This assignment addresses the limited documented evidence on public perceptions and stakeholder attitudes toward Community Service, which is essential for improving implementation, acceptance, and policy reforms.

Purpose of the Assignment

To assess public perceptions and stakeholder views on Community Service as a sentencing option in Uganda, including:

  • Understanding the perspectives of criminal justice actors and affected communities.
  • Identifying challenges, opportunities, and best practices in implementation.
  • Providing evidence-based recommendations to enhance awareness, acceptance, and effectiveness of Community Service.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Prepare an inception report detailing methodology, outputs, and expected outcomes.
  • Design and implement surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions in selected districts.
  • Collect and analyze qualitative and quantitative data on Community Service use and perceptions.
  • Facilitate validation of collected data with stakeholders.
  • Produce a policy brief summarizing findings and recommendations for Uganda’s Community Service framework.

Qualifications / Special Skills

  • Education: Advanced degree (Master’s or equivalent) in criminology, law, social sciences, business administration, or related field. A first degree plus 2 years of relevant experience may be accepted.
  • Experience: Minimum 7 years in program management, research, or stakeholder engagement at institutional level.
  • Experience conducting national surveys is desirable.
  • Proven track record in development evaluations, socio-legal research, or justice sector assessments.
  • Strong understanding of Uganda’s criminal justice system and Community Service framework.
  • Excellent research, coordination, and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information.
  • Knowledge of international crime prevention standards (e.g., Nelson Mandela Rules) and integrating Sustainable Development Goals into programming.

Languages

  • Fluency in English is required.
  • Knowledge of French or other UN official languages is an advantage.

Additional Information

  • No fee is charged at any stage of the recruitment process.
  • The UN does not request bank account details from applicants.

Location