TERM: 
Short-Term
JOB DESCRIPTION: 
Under Objective 1, JSSP aims to promote alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to alleviate court backlog and propose swift resolution to cases. To this end, JSSP is working to strengthen the capacity and awareness raising of institutions and professionals specializing in reviewing disputes and other enabling factors for ADR mechanisms. During stakeholder consultations, Ministry of Justice (MOJ) underlined the need to support the establishment of the self-regulating organization for mediators which is responsible for overseeing the transparency and efficiency of its members' activities (all licensed mediators) and ensuring compliance with the mediator's rules of conduct. As a starting point, JSSP will launch efforts to develop a Code of Conduct for mediators and Mediation Rules aligning with the best international standards. JSSP’s support in developing this regulatory framework will ensure that MOJ-licensed mediators operate under clear and robust guidelines, thus enhancing transparency and accountability in their practice. This will eventually build trust among clients and stakeholders, promoting the use of mediation as an effective dispute resolution method.
Accordingly, and in close coordination with MOJ, JSSP will engage national expert to develop a draft Code of Conduct for mediators' association and draft Mediation Rules aligning with international standards. JSSP will also sponsor one moderated workshop with mediators to apprise them of drafting efforts and solicit their input and feedback.
This position reports to the Deputy Chief of Party. The designated Activity Lead will serve as primary point of contact.
The proposed level of effort for this assignment is 70 consultant/days. The authorized work week is five days per week and eight hours per day.
The estimated period of assignment is from September 30 to February 21, 2025. The place of performance is Yerevan, Armenia (at the JSSP Office and/or at the GOAM agencies) and the remainder of the time will be spent remotely.
RESPONSIBILITIES: 
The primary objectives of the assignment are a) to collect first-hand information from licensed mediators ensuring that the practical experience of mediators is revealed and directly reflected in the drafting process, b) to develop clear and enforceable ethical standards for mediators, c) to draft comprehensive procedural rules for the mediation process.
In furtherance of this assignment, the Consultant will:
- Review the existing legal framework, including national and international standards, relevant laws, and guidelines related to mediation rules and ethical conduct;
- Engage (through moderated workshop, data collection and interviews) with licensed mediators, MOJ representatives and other stakeholders to gather insights, foster collaboration and agreement in principle among mediators on essential ethical and procedural guidelines;
- Conduct thorough research of the benchmark codes of conduct and mediation rules from recognized international mediation bodies (e.g., European Code of Conduct for Mediators, Singapore International Mediation Centre Code of Conduct, International Chamber of Commerce Mediation Rules);
- Draft Code of Conduct defining clear and enforceable ethical standards for mediators;
- Draft Mediation Rules that detail the mediation process, from initiation to conclusion;
- Incorporate stakeholders feedback into the final version of the draft on Code of Conduct and Mediation rules;
- Develop presentation and other materials, if necessary to introduce and explain the developed Code of Conduct and Mediation Rules;
- Develop concept and/or online learning materials for judges on the mediation.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 
.
Language:
- Level 3 English (good working knowledge) and native fluency in Armenian.
Education:
- Master's degree in Law (Ph.D is preferred);
- Training programs in alternative dispute resolution or mediator/arbitrator status are considered as an advantage.
Experience:
- Minimum 7 years of experience in judicial reform or justice sector development (experience in ADR is considered as an advantage);
- Strong understanding of international mediation standards and existing best practices;
- Familiarity with the structure and functioning of the judiciary and ADR mechanisms in the Republic of Armenia, and strong knowledge of related legal frameworks in force currently;
- Proven experience in mediation or ADR, with a focus on regulatory framework development;
- Strong research, analytical, and drafting skills;
- Familiarity with the structure and functioning of the Armenian judiciary and law enforcement;
- Knowledge of Armenia’s Civil Procedure Code, Law on Mediation and other related legal acts;
- Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse groups of national stakeholders (such as the MOJ, Self-Regulating Organization for Mediators, etc.) and incorporate their input in the working plans and expected deliverables;
- Previous track of successful cooperation with international development agencies (USAID, Council of Europe, UNDP, European Union (preferred).
Other:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
- Collaborative and proactive approach in working with cross-functional team in combination with excellent communication skills;
- Ability to work flexibly, independently and in limited timeframes;
- Strong writing and editing skills.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES: 
Interested candidates should email a resume and a brief cover letter to: ***********@***********.***. DPI will accept applications through 27 September 2024 or until the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Only finalists will be contacted. Please refrain from phone calls.
Please clearly mention in your application letter that you learned of this announcement through Career Center and mention the URL of its website - www.careercenter.am. Thanks.
OPEN TO/ ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Only Armenian citizens are eligible for this position.
ABOUT: 
USAID/Armenia Justice Sector Support Project (JSSP) supports the Government of Armenia to establish a fair and equitable justice system and increase public confidence in the rule of law. JSSP works with multiple justice sector institutions to: (1) establish effective and efficient court administration and case management systems; (2) support self-regulatory institutional capacity development for judicial institutions; (3) improve legal and professional education; and (4) facilitate implementation of justice sector reform through collaborative action.