Job Responsibilities:

• Conduct a desk review of existing literature on the Dominican Republic including legislation, observer reports and other publications on the topic.
• Review the voting buying literature in the Latin American context.
• Produce analysis on the categories of vote buying methods, challenges to fight them including channels for submitting complaints, enforcement mechanisms and options for improvement. In addition, provide comparative best international practice examples with a special emphasis on the region.
• Carry out consultations with Dominican stakeholders.
• Participate in meetings to present study paper to the JCE, civil society and political leaders.
• Travel to the Dominican Republic when feasible and when required by IFES.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in international politics, law, international development, public policy, or related field; advanced degree, preferably PhD in law, political science or public administration

Experience: Minimum of 15 years of experience in election administration and/or provision of technical assistance to election management bodies. Proven track record with the topic of assignment preferably in the Latin American context. Previous publication of academic papers or studies in the topic or related areas.  Prior experience working with USAID funded projects will be an advantage.

Related Skills or Knowledge: Excellent oral and written communications skills. Ability and skills to promote and inspire effective collaboration among relevant stakeholders, demonstrating strong diplomacy skills and cultural sensitivity. Strong consultative, collaborative and participatory way of working. Experience living and working overseas, preferably within the assigned region. Knowledge of local/regional politics.

Language Skills: Fluency in written and spoken Spanish required and working knowledge of English.

Duration of Assignment: The period of performance will be for an initial 70 working days over a four month period. This may be extendable dependent on performance, project funding and requirements of IFES.

Travel: Travel required up to 15% of time for consultations and presentations

Physical Requirements/Work Environment: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job