GENERAL OVERVIEW OF MEDICOS DEL MUNDO (MDM-ES)
MDM-ES is an independent international organisation operating in over 17 countries worldwide, focusing on creating social change and advocating for access to comprehensive, universal public healthcare for populations. MDM-ES has 17 years of experience in the Middle East, including Iraq, Lebanon, the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), Turkey, and Jordan. In North-East Syria (NES), MDM-ES has been actively present since 2017, supporting the provision of comprehensive primary health care services, including mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in public health facilities. Interventions are concentrated in three Governorates, namely Al-Hasakeh, Aleppo and Raqqa. Currently, MDM-ES supports 22 primary healthcare centres (PHCCs), including 4 in Al-Hasakeh, 6 in Aleppo, and 12 in Raqqa. NES operations are supported by a coordination office based in Dohuk in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI).
NES CONTEXT
NES is facing a severe humanitarian crisis due to prolonged conflict, which has resulted in widespread displacement and the collapse of essential services. The crisis has had a severe impact on the physical and mental health of the population. The capacity of the local health system is fragile, and violent extremism is exacerbated by water scarcity and the erosion of livelihoods. Years of wars and large-scale military campaigns led by the Global Coalition to defeat extremist groups have devastated the health infrastructure and service provision in the region, which was already under-resourced and deprioritized compared to other areas of the country before the conflict. The health system in NES, particularly in Raqqa Governorate, has been identified as weak based on preliminary reports and observations. These challenges require efforts aimed at strengthening the resilience of the population and local health structures in the face of the ongoing conflict and associated difficulties.
BRIEF PRESENTATION OF THE PROJECT
MDM-ES is currently implementing a 3-year project in Raqqa Governorate funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), which focuses on providing access to high-quality healthcare services and building the resilience of local communities through various community health initiatives, which include improving community health-seeking behaviours, adoption of coping skills, and establishing and maintaining peer to peer psychosocial support /care groups. The project aims to ensure high-quality primary health care services for all population groups and strengthen community resilience, focusing on vulnerable groups (women, children, the elderly, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and people with disabilities. The desired project impact includes:
- Improved availability and access to comprehensive primary health services in selected PHCCs.
- Enhanced health-related capacities of communities and availability of community-based health services.
- Improved quality of healthcare services at supported PHCCs in Raqqa.
MDM-ES plans to achieve this by focusing on capacity building and early recovery measures of 12 PHCCs and the surrounding communities. This includes:
- Improving access, availability, and sustainability of healthcare structures, considering regional health strategies like the “Essential Package of Primary Health Care” for NES.
- Capacity-building for local healthcare professionals and PHCC staff to address the needs of vulnerable groups.
- Renovation and maintenance of basic infrastructure for resilient health services.
Resilience approach
In terms of resilience, the project addresses the third strategic objective of the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) for Syria, i.e., strengthening the resilience of affected communities by improving access to livelihood opportunities and essential services, especially for the most vulnerable households and communities. Other target groups of the project, as part of its resilience strategy to strengthen the capacities of local partners in coping with the increased demand for public services, include healthcare professionals at the supported PHCCs, Community Health Workers (CHWs) and local health actors.
Project activities will enhance resilience in three dimensions:
- Individual resilience of vulnerable populations.
- Resilience of local communities.
- Resilience of the selected PHCCs to be supported.
Through various measures, including improving access and quality of primary healthcare services (including SRH and MHPSS) and building community health capacities through awareness sessions, campaigns, home visits, and community-based activities, the project aims to strengthen the adaptive and stabilising capacities of the target population at the individual level, making them more resilient to the chronic stress of ongoing conflict, its health consequences, and disruptions in healthcare systems. At the community level, various self-help initiatives, such as developing an outreach component by CHWs and establishing care groups, have been introduced to empower community representatives to mobilise internal resources and tap into the community’s potential (strengthening adaptability).
Active engagement of the local population in decision-making regarding their health and overall well-being, as well as the opportunity for dialogue between communities/community representatives and local authorities/healthcare providers, will also enhance the transformative capacity of communities. The resilience of local healthcare professionals will be strengthened as they are empowered to expand the range of healthcare services offered in public structures through the development of MHPSS and SRH services to meet the population’s needs. The capacity-building component (training methods and content) will enhance the adaptability and transformative capacity of the PHCCs supported by the project and ensure its long-term sustainability. The PHCCs with limited existing capacities for the project will be selected based on a detailed assessment of each structure
OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT
MDM-ES, in this assignment, seeks to engage the consultancy services of a Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) Expert for 16 weeks to develop a BCC Strategy for NES, including effective and innovative core messages, tools and materials that will support the implementation of the BMZ project’s strategic components. The focus areas include community health strengthening, chronic diseases and lifestyle improvements, communicable diseases and their prevention, childhood immunisations and male involvement in SRH, MHPSS, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), hygiene, and nutrition. The BCC strategy should:
- Enhance awareness amongst the target population on the highlighted topics and the availability of services.
- Address and promote behaviour change among target groups, leading to informed decision-making, modified behaviour, and adoption of timely and appropriate practices at individual, family, and community levels.
- Increase and sustain demand for quality prevention and care services and optimal utilisation of available services.
The core framework of the consultancy will include:
- Formative research on knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices amongst target groups.
- Conduct an assessment to identify barriers to behavioural changes
- Review existing documents, reports, materials, and capacity related to behaviour change.
- Development of a behaviour change communication strategy for NES focusing on primary health, MHPSS, GBV, hygiene and nutrition.
SCOPE OF WORK
Phase One: Formative research and situation analysis
Timeframe: 10 weeks
Tasks
Expected Deliverables
Kick-off meeting
Objective: Meet with the project team and key stakeholders to clarify objectives and outline the scope of work.
Activities
- Conduct a kick-off meeting with the project team and stakeholders.
- Discuss the consultancy’s mission in terms of goals, objectives, and expectations**.**
- Review the consultancy timeline and deliverables
- Identify key stakeholders and define their roles.
-Inception report.
Formative research and situation analysis
Objective: Gather data to understand the current situation, including knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers to the desired behaviour change.
Activities
- Conduct literature reviews and secondary data analysis (including MDM-ES’s existing documents, reports and materials).
- Design and implement primary research while employing a gender-sensitive approach (e.g. surveys, interviews, focus group discussions) with target populations and stakeholders to gain an in-depth understanding of current primary health, MHPSS, GBV, hygiene, and nutrition programs, gender/social norms and other factors influencing the uptake and utilisation of existing services.
- Analyse data to identify key factors influencing behaviour considering different factors such as age, religion, ethnicity, gender, disability, etc.
- Define audience segments based on demographic, psychographic, and behavioural characteristics.
- Prioritize these segments for targeted communication efforts**.**
-Comprehensive research report with key findings and insights.
Phase Two: Strategy Development
Timeframe: 6 weeks
Tasks
Expected Deliverables
1.
Strategy development:
Objective: Develop a strategy to guide communication efforts aimed at achieving the desired behaviour change.
Activities:
- Define communication objectives incorporating a gender-sensitive and culturally appropriate approach aligned with the project goals.
- Develop inclusive, context-specific, and culturally appropriate key messages, materials, and tools (e.g., posters, leaflets, radio scripts) tailored to different audience segments.
- Identify appropriate communication channels and tactics.
- Pre-test messages and materials with representatives from the target audience.
- Gather feedback and refine messages and materials accordingly.
-BCC strategy document outlining objectives, key messages tailored for each identified audience segment, and channels
2.
Implementation planning
Objective: Outline the BCC strategy execution process in the field.
Activities:
- Develop a detailed implementation plan, including timelines, resources, and budget.
- Define roles and responsibilities for implementation.
- Plan capacity-building activities for staff and partners involved in the implementation
-Implementation plan with detailed timelines and resource allocation.
-Capacity-building plan and training materials
3.
Finalisation and handover
Objective: Ensure all project deliverables are completed, reviewed, and handed over to the client.
Activities:
- Conduct a final review of the BCC strategy and associated documents with stakeholders.
- Make necessary revisions based on feedback.
- Submit all final documents, including the strategy, implementation plan, and Monitoring and Evaluation framework
-Final BCC strategy document and training material.
– List of key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure the effectiveness of the BCC activities.
-Consultancy completion report
-Handover documentation and guidelines.
ORGANISATION OF THE CONSULTANCY
Administrative formalities
- Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) and Northeast Syria
- Visa to KRI—The consultant will be responsible for acquiring the necessary visa; however, MDM will provide all the required documents for the application. Depending on the country of origin (system of countries classified in several categories—cf. KRG visa website), the visa can be obtained upon arrival or requested before arrival, but a tourist visa for 30 to 90 days is applicable.
- Visa to Syria (NES) from KRI—The MdM team will facilitate crossing approval, which takes 5 to 7 days. To do so, the consultant will be required to share a copy of the visa and passport. MdM will provide an identification card, along with other internal letters needed for applying for crossing approval.
The consultant must ensure they have all necessary visas and insurance coverage, determine how to obtain these, take the necessary measures, and cover the associated costs.
Other
- Translator: If the consultant needs to find an English-Arabic translator for part of the mission, the costs must be included in the budget proposal.
- MdM will share all relevant project documents, including the project proposal, work plan, and any existing assessments or studies related to the target beneficiaries and context.
- MdM will facilitate the consultant’s access to key project stakeholders, such as community representatives, local government officials, and other implementation partners if needed.
N/B:
- The duration is for implementation only and is subject to modification at any time in response to changes in the context and safety/security in particular.
- The working days in Syria and Iraq are from Sunday to Thursday.
Logistics
Equipment
- Computer: MdM will not provide a computer. The consultant will rely on their equipment.
- Printer: Printers will be available in MDM offices for daily printings.
- Office: An office shared with MdM colleagues (Dohuk in KRI/Hasakeh, Raqqa and Kobane in Syria) will be available for the consultant.
Communications resources
- Internet: Wi-Fi is always available in MDM offices.
- Phone: The consultant will manage their smartphone and SIM card for national and international calls.
Travel/Accommodation
Travel expenses should be included in the consultancy budget, covering flights, transportation to the base in Erbil/KRI, and the KRI/NES border. These should be organized as follows:
- From destination of origin to Erbil airport
- From Erbil to KRI Dohuk
MdM will facilitate the movement from KRI Dohuk to Syria and within Raqqa Governorate. The organisation will cover accommodation. However, the consultant is responsible for covering all food-related costs and other personal expenses.
Safety/Security
- The consultant will strictly adhere to MdM’s security rules and regulations throughout their stay in Iraqi Kurdistan and Syria and may be evacuated at any moment based on MdM’s decision.
- Restrictions of movements:
- In NES, for security reasons, movement requests must be submitted to the relevant Field Manager and Logistics Coordinator for assessment. These requests require final validation by the Country Coordinator at least one week in advance. The consultant will receive a security briefing from the MdM’s Field Manager in Hasakeh and Raqqa to explain the security rules. Depending on the situation, some movements may be rejected or cancelled by either the organization or the local authorities. MdM will assist in obtaining approval from the Humanitarian Affairs Office in NES.
- Dress code: Casual long clothes are recommended.
- Due to political sensitivity, we request that the BCC consultant not speak on behalf of MdM and avoid any sensitive/political discussions.
- Security and culture briefing will be conducted on arrival in detail.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS, EXPERTISE AND COMPETENCIES
Qualifications
University degree in Sociology, social work, social sciences, psychology, Public Health, or a related field.
Work experience and technical expertise
- Minimum of 5 years of experience developing BCC strategies and implementing social and behavioural change (SBCC) in programs. The same experience in health program will be an asset.
- Experience conducting desk review, research, and data analysis on social and behavioural change topics.
- Experience in designing SBCC training tools and conducting ToT.
- Previous experience with INGOs is an asset.
- Knowledge of the Middle East context is desired.
Competencies
- Professionalism
- Experience working with multi-cultural teams.
- Team player with strong interpersonal skills.
- Strong research and writing skills.
- Excellent organisational skills.
- Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure.
- Full understanding and respect of humanitarian principles, and PSEA policies.
- Ability to be flexible and respond positively to changes in the strategy as part of the review and feedback process.
Languages
- Fluency in English (written and spoken)
- Fluency in Arabic or Kurdish is a plus
DETAILS OF THE CONSULTANCY
Duration
The consultancy is expected to be completed over four months (16 weeks), from February to End of May 2025.
Location
On-Site
Reporting structure
The consultant will work closely with and directly report to the Medical and MHPSS Coordinators. He/she will be required to submit all deliverables to the coordinators for review and approval. The coordinators will provide feedback and guidance on the draft BCC strategy, ensuring alignment with the project’s objectives, BMZ’s resilience priorities, and the local context.
Both the Coordinators and Project Manager will be available for regular check-ins and support to address any challenges or questions that may arise.
In case of difficulties, reorientations shall be considered during the consultancy but only after the written approval of the relevant coordinators.
Payment Schedule
Phase one: 30%
Phase two: 70%
AVAILABLE BUDGET
The total budget for this consultancy is a maximum of 15,000.00 Euros, which includes all costs and contingency costs.
The Consultant should submit a detailed budget proposal showing costs broken down by expense item., based on the following model:
Unit
(State*)
Unit cost
(Euros)
Total
(Euros)
Comments
Remuneration
€
€
Translator
Travelling-Flights
€
€
Other (detail)
€
€
TOTAL
€
€
How to apply
APPLICATION PROCESS
MDM-ES will apply a two-stage application process as detailed below:
Stage 1
Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Interested consultants are invited to submit an EOI for this consultancy. The EOI should include the following:
- Cover letter (maximum two pages) highlighting the consultant’s relevant experience and qualifications for this assignment.
- CVs (maximum four pages) outlining the consultant’s educational background, professional experience, and specific expertise in behaviour change communication strategies.
- Brief description of the consultant’s proposed approach and methodology for developing the BCC strategy (maximum ten pages).
- Examples of 2-3 relevant previous assignments demonstrating the consultant’s experience in similar projects.
The EOI should be submitted by 26/02/2025 to [email protected]
Stage 2
Proposal Submission
- Based on the evaluation of the EOIs, a shortlist of qualified consultants will be invited to submit a complete technical and financial proposal. The selected consultants will receive additional information and instructions for the proposal submission.
The full proposal should include the following:
Technical Proposal:
- Detailed technical approach and methodology for developing the BCC strategy.
- Work plan and timeline for the assignment.
- Relevant experience and qualifications of the consultant
- Proposed team composition and roles (if applicable)
Financial Breakdown:
- Total budget (inc.VAT)
- Detailed budget breakdown, including professional fees and other relevant costs (living expenses, transport, interpreters if applicable, etc).
- Justification for the proposed budget.
A sworn statement confirming (the absence of) any conflicts of interest.
Additional supporting documents:
- CVs of consultant/team
- Samples of BCC strategy developed in the past
The specific deadline for submitting the full proposal will be communicated to the shortlisted consultants (the tentative deadline is two weeks after the request for proposals).