MENA Fem Movement for Economical, Development and Ecological Justice
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We’re Looking For A Researcher (Project-Based Consultancy)

Organization Background:

MENAFem  envisions a new global economic system based on intersectional feminist principles, human rights, and ecological justice driven by the needs of communities and the marginalized, in particular in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and beyond.

Our mission is to confront poverty, deprivation, inequalities and lack of substantive democratic rights by empowering communities and vulnerable groups to resist all forms of injustices and inequalities. The network was established in 2023 and consists of local and regional organizations dedicated to achieving equitable development and fostering a just, ecologically, sustainable feminist economy. The movement targets influencing policies related to debt management, economic justice, and ecological justice. This involves organizing and mobilizing advocacy campaigns to effect policy change, producing alternative narratives, knowledge, and research, and challenging unjust economic systems.

Project Background 

Across the MENA region, rising sovereign debt levels, fossil fuel dependency, and austerity policies are shaping national development trajectories. These fiscal pressures often result in the deprioritization of public services—especially those that disproportionately affect women, including healthcare, education, and social protection.

Austerity policies and debt servicing disproportionately burden women, who are more reliant on public services and are often primary caregivers. Debt servicing pressures often push countries to expand fossil fuel extraction and consumption as a quick revenue-generating strategy, undermining climate goals and pushing them into further economic fossil fuel dependency. Privatization and liberalization further marginalize women by expanding insecure, low-paid employment and increasing unpaid care work. Feminist critiques highlight how these debt-driven policies have failed to incorporate gender-sensitive approaches, deepening social and economic disparities for women and calling for a transformation toward inclusive, equitable economic governance.

This research initiative aims to further explore the interconnections between debt servicing, fossil fuel expansion, and the erosion of women’s access to public services through a gendered lens. The outcomes will contribute to a global research and advocacy effort supporting just transitions and feminist economic alternatives.

 

Consultancy Title:

Research Consultant – Exploring the Nexus Between Sovereign Debt, Fossil Fuel Dependency, and Women’s Access to Public Services in MENA

Duration:
3-4 months 

Objectives of the Consultancy

  1. Conduct in-depth, gender-responsive research on the interlinkages between sovereign debt, fossil fuel dependency, and public service provision in selected MENA countries. 
  2. Produce a high-quality, standalone case study report (4,000–5,000 words) for policy and advocacy audiences.

Scope of Work and Key Responsibilities

  • Identify and finalize suitable MENA countries for case study research, in consultation with the project team.
  • Conduct desk review and, where applicable, key informant interviews with civil society actors, feminist economists, affected communities, and policy experts.
  • Analyze: 
  • Sovereign debt trends and debt servicing strategies. 
  • Fossil fuel-related fiscal policy and development strategies. 
  • Changes in public service budgets and gendered impacts. 
  • Austerity-related burdens on women’s unpaid care work, health, and education access. 
  • Resistance and organizing by women’s groups and civil society. 
  • Draft a comprehensive case study report suitable for standalone publication and integration into a global report.

Deliverables expected deadline 30th of September

  1. Research Proposal outlining the research plan.
  2. Country-Specific Case Study Report (4,000–5,000 words) – Policy-oriented, gendered analysis.
  3. Summary Brief (1–2 pages) – Key findings and recommendations for dissemination. 

Qualifications and Experience

  • Advanced degree in gender studies, development economics, political economy, public policy, or related fields.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience conducting policy research, particularly in MENA and/or on gender, debt, energy, or public services.
  • Excellent command of spoken and written English and Arabic. 
  • Proven experience applying feminist or intersectional frameworks in economic and political analysis.
  • Strong writing and communication skills, with demonstrated ability to produce high-quality advocacy or policy reports.
  • Experience working with civil society organizations, feminist movements, or regional networks in MENA is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge of French is an asset but not required.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

  • Updated CV/Resume
  • A short cover letter outlining relevant experience and approach to the topic
  • 1–2 writing samples (preferably published reports or articles)

Applications should be sent by the 20th of July: [email protected]