Amphaphone Phongphan
Terms of Reference
International Community Engagement and Safeguards Consultant
to support the Lao National REDD+ Program,
the REDD+ Taskforce, and the REDD+ Division
Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods (GFLL) – Northern Laos
- BACKGROUND
The Emissions Reduction (ER) Programme of Lao PDR embodies the Government of Lao PDR’s (GoL) commitment to reforming land use, enhancing forest restoration and protection. The GoL embraces REDD+ as the opportunity for transforming rural land use, from opportunistic revenue generation at the cost of natural resources, to strategic and efficient land use delivered through participatory and integrated planning design. The ER Programme (ER-P) launches the implementation phase of the National REDD+ Programme and is designed as a strategic and scalable foundation for addressing the key drivers of deforestation and forest degradation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions beyond business as usual. Key direct drivers interplay with a set of complex underlying drivers. The direct drivers include permanent agriculture expansion, shifting cultivation, illegal and unsustainable timber harvesting and infrastructure development. The interventions of the ER Programme correspond to each of the four main drivers.
The GoL has participated in the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) since May 2008. The FCPF manages two different multi-donor funds – the Fund for REDD+ Readiness Preparation Support and the Carbon Fund. Lao PDR was provided with a REDD+ Readiness Preparation grant in November 2011, which supports analytical work including the development of the REDD+ strategy, relevant legal and regulatory frameworks, capacity development including training and workshops, stakeholder consultations, communication campaigns, and awareness-raising. The FCPF Readiness has contributed to developing Lao PDR’s capacity to receive REDD+ investments. One such international investment for REDD+ is from the ER-P through results-based payments from the FCPF Carbon Fund.
The Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is responsible for managing the first sub-national emission reduction program in Lao PDR titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL).
The Program covers an area of 8.1 million hectares of six provinces located in northern Lao PDR, which includes Bokeo, Huaphan Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Sayaburi. The Program stems from a strong analysis and understanding of the main direct and underlying drivers of forest loss. The area constitutes approximately one-third of both the country’s geographical and forest area, with a population of 1.8 million people and where the dominant land use designation is forest. Each province in the GFLL program area shares an international border with one of the surrounding countries of Thailand, Myanmar, China and Vietnam.
The Lao REDD+ program has made significant progress and has already endorsed its National REDD+ Strategy (NRS), developed its Reference Emission Level and Forest Reference Level (REL/FRL), continues to strengthen the National Forest Monitoring System (NFMS) through an approved roadmap, and has established its Safeguards Information System (SIS). In addition a Benefit Sharing Plan (BSP) has been prepared. The first results based payment has also been received by the GoL and is now being deployed as per the BSP.
The GFLL is looking for an International Community Engagement and Safeguards Consultant (ICESC) who would provide support to the Lao National REDD+ Program. The consultant would provide technical advice, guidance and support to the program on community engagement, and social and environmental safeguards applied under the program
Framework Safeguard Documents
The above mentioned community engagement, and social and environmental safeguards policy requirements and implementation process are provided in a safeguards operational package (or Safeguard Package), which has been developed for GFLL and has been reviewed by the World Bank. The safeguards package simplifies and includes: -Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA); -Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF); -Ethnic Group Policy Framework (EGPF); -Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF); -Process Framework (PF); and, -Gender Action Plan (GAP). These documents have been disclosed on the DoF website (http://dof.maf.gov.la/).
GFLL Approach to Community Engagement and Safeguards
The GFLL has integrated social and environmental safeguards into its community engagement process (CEP) based on lessons learned and experiences from similar forest conservation and management projects financed by the WB in Laos. The consultant will be responsible for guiding and supporting the TA team of national and international consultants, and forestry staff for implementing the community engagement process, ensuring compliance with social and environmental safeguards, and monitoring. The project aims to establish community action plans in approximately 300 villages in the six project provinces in Northern Laos through three-steps of CEP.
Implementation of the GFLL safeguards
The current focus of the GFLL Program is the implementation of the Benefit Sharing Plan (BSP). One of the GFLL program’s main modalities to achieve emissions reductions is through support for interventions at the village level. Specific project activities include: -Improved village-level Participatory Land Use Planning (PLUP); -Sustainable Forest Management activities (SFM); -Forest Land Restoration (FLR) activities, including the establishment of agroforestry systems and mixed-species plantations; and -Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA).
The specific activities that will be supported in each participating village is determined through a Community Engagement Process (CEP), which includes multiple consultations in each village, resulting in the development and implementation of Community Action Plans (CAP). These CAPs define the activities that the GFLL Program will support in each village and the commitments made by communities in exchange for this support (Community Conservation Agreement/CCA) to be overseen/implemented by the Village Development Committee (VDC).
The steps, activities and outputs of the CEP are detailed in an Operational Safeguards Package, designed to execute the commitments contained in the program framework safeguard documents (ESMF, EGDF, RPF and PF). The Operational Safeguards Package is a living document that can be updated based on the evolving realities of the GFLL Program, and lessons learned from implementation.
Institutional arrangements
The District Agriculture and Forestry Offices (DAFO) will lead the development of the CAPs in each district, supported by the Lao Women’s Union (LWU), Lao Front for National Construction (LFNC). LWU and LFND are a government mass organizations in charge of advocacy and promotion of women and ethnic groups in development and natural resource management, These mass organizations have local presence nationwide, from village up to the central level. Each District is supported by the relevant Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO), who plays a coordinating, technical support and oversight role. Additional support is provided by GFLL Provincial Coordinators and GFLL program Technical Advisors (Safeguards, SFM and CSA). The CAPs and included CCA will be overseen/implemented by the VDCs with support from the relevant district offices. The VDC’s role is to manage funds disbursed to the village in accordance with the activities and budgets outlined in the CAP, to supervise the implementation of the activities and to report on this to the responsible DAFO. In addition, each of the six participating PAFO has established Social and Environmental Safeguards Units (SESUs) for the application, management, monitoring and reporting of social and environmental safeguards.
Capacity Building
Throughout 2023 and 2024, several phases of training have been delivered by the GFLL Technical Advisors to build the capacities of PAFO and DAFO staff in the six program provinces. Each training focused on one step of the CEP and was followed by field training to accompany DAFOs in the implementation of the CEP activities, as well as documentation. Further details of the training delivered are included in the GFLL program annual safeguards implementation reports, which will be provided to the consultant at the start of the assignment.
- OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT
The objective of the assignment is to assist the National Project Management Unit (PMU)/Province Project Management Units (PPMU) to oversee, provide guidance and support on the Community Engagement Process (CEP) in project villages and on compliance with the safeguard requirements contained in the Safeguards Operational Package and monitor its compliance.
The International Community Engagement and Safeguards Consultant in close collaboration with the national social and environmental consultants, and the SFM and CSA consultants will lead and support the implementation of the CEP and development of CAPs, including monitoring of subsequent social and environmental safeguard requirements.
- SCOPE OF WORK AND MAIN TASKS
The consultant will perform the following tasks:
Oversee and guide the Community Engagement Process and Safeguards
-Become familiar with the Safeguards Operational Package including steps, requirements, and tools
-Become familiar with the state of CEP implementation process and status of CAPs development
-Identify gaps/challenges to the implementation of the CEP and propose remedial measures
-Be responsible for management of all social and environmental safeguards in the project area including guidance and support in E&S impact screening/assessment and preparation of Site Specific safeguard instruments (CAPs, Environmental and Social Management Plans (SS-ESMPs) or Environmental Codes of Practice (ECOPs) for activities and infrastructure subprojects identified in the CAPs
-Lead preparation, review and revision of the safeguard instruments (Safeguard Package, ESMF, EGDF RPF and PF) and site specific instruments/tools (CAP and SS-ESMPs or ECOPs) for activities and work subprojects based on the evolving realities of the GFLL Program, and lessons learned from implementation of these instruments, or as required.
Monitor safeguards compliance during the CEP implementation
-Provide guidance to the collection and assessment of all data required from project villages
-Develop and operationalize simple monitoring tools for tracking CEP implementation
-Develop a plan for monitoring of social and environmental safeguard compliance
-Be responsible for all reporting requirements related to CEP and safeguards. With input from the national consultants, prepare a safeguard monitoring reports as part of the program progress report (Emission Reduction Monitoring Report (ERMR) for submission to the WB on an annual basis
-Develop and ensure the grievance redress mechanism is functional and effective in all project villages with focal persons of PMU and PPMUs and village committee appointed, trained and GRM information including their contact details disclosed in the villages
Capacity Development
-Identify capacity building requirements and develop an annual capacity building plan
-Review existing capacity building material and resources for CEP and safeguards and revise as required
-Lead and facilitate capacity building events in collaboration with national TA and government staff
Work Plans and Budgets
-Support the national TA team to develop annual work plans and budgets and work closely with CTA and ensure the safeguard workplans and budgets are integrated into the overall project Annual Workplan and Budeg (AWPB) to submitted to the World Bank for review
-Monitor work plans and budgets on a quarterly basis and revise as required.
- EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
The International Community Engagement and Safeguards Consultant should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least master’s degree in Anthropology, Sociology, Law, Applied Social and/or Environmental Science or in related field.
- Knowledge of, and experience with multilateral development bank (WB and ADB) safeguard policies. Specific experience with World Bank safeguard policies would be preferred
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in work related to safeguards, as well as the design and implementation of community engagement processes
- Familiar with project design, management, and monitoring and evaluation
- Knowledge of the Lao PDR Government system/institutions and familiarity with forestry sector institutions including the Department of Forestry/REDD+ Division
- Experience in design, facilitation and delivery of capacity building programs related to safeguards/community engagement
- Excellent spoken and written skills in English.
- Working experience in southeast Asian countries
- Ability to communicate in the Lao language would be an asset
- Flexibility and ability to work and deliver high-quality products in a timely manner.
- DELIVERABLES
The consultant will provide the following deliverables:
- Community engagement and safeguards Plan
- Work Plan and Budget
- Monitoring and Evaluation Plan
- ToRs for Technical Assistance
- Community engagement and safeguards monitoring Reports
- DUTY STATION AND DURATION
The International Community Engagement and Safeguards Consultant will report to the National Project Coordinator, REDD+ Division of the Department of Forests (DoF) in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The duty station will be Vientiane, Lao PDR. The duration of this assignment would be from 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2026 with possible annual contract extension subject to work performance.
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Department of Forestry
Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihood (GFLL) Project
REQUEST OF EXPRESSIONS OF IINTEREST
(for Individual Consultants)
The Emissions Reduction (ER) Programme of Lao PDR embodies the Government of Lao PDR’s (GoL) commitment to reforming land use, enhancing forest restoration and protection. The GoL embraces REDD+ as the opportunity for transforming rural land use, from opportunistic revenue generation at the cost of natural resources, to strategic and efficient land use delivered through participatory and integrated planning design. The ER Programme (ER-P) launches the implementation phase of the National REDD+ Programme and is designed as a strategic and scalable foundation for addressing the key drivers of deforestation and forest degradation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions beyond business as usual. Key direct drivers interplay with a set of complex underlying drivers. The direct drivers include permanent agriculture expansion, shifting cultivation, illegal and unsustainable timber harvesting and infrastructure development. The interventions of the ER Programme correspond to each of the four main drivers.
The Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is responsible for managing the first sub-national emission reduction program in Lao PDR titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL).
GFLL now is now seeking for the International Community Engagement and Safeguards Consultant who should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least master’s degree in Anthropology, Sociology, Law, Applied Social and/or Environmental Science or in related field.
- Knowledge of, and experience with multilateral development bank (WB and ADB) safeguard policies. Specific experience with World Bank safeguard policies would be preferred
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in work related to safeguards, as well as the design and implementation of community engagement processes
- Familiar with project design, management, and monitoring and evaluation
- Knowledge of the Lao PDR Government system/institutions and familiarity with forestry sector institutions including the Department of Forestry/REDD+ Division
- Experience in design, facilitation and delivery of capacity building programs related to safeguards/community engagement
- Excellent spoken and written skills in English.
- Working experience in southeast Asian countries
- Ability to communicate in the Lao language would be an asset
- Flexibility and ability to work and deliver high-quality products in a timely manner.
The consultants will be selected under selection method for Individual Consultants based on the GoL’s Law Procurement on Public Procurement No. 30/ NA dated 2nd November 2017 and the Instruction on the Implementation of Law on Public Procurement No. 0477/ MOF dated 13th February 2019. The full ToR for the assignment can be found at the following website http://dof.maf.gov.la or can be sent to candidates upon written request to the e-mail address below.
Expression of Interested along with CV (including affixed recent photo) must be submitted (indicated the position) not later than 3rd January 2025 via email to the address below:
Mr. Phetdaovong Namphachan, National Project Coordinator (GFLL Project)
Deputy Director of REDD+ (Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) Division
Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ban Phontongsavath (corner of traffic light of junction from Phonphanao Road and P-3 Road), Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
E-mail: procurement.gfll@gmail.com
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Department of Forestry
Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihood (GFLL) Project
REQUEST OF EXPRESSIONS OF IINTEREST (re-advertise)
(for Individual Consultants)
The Emissions Reduction (ER) Programme of Lao PDR embodies the Government of Lao PDR’s (GoL) commitment to reforming land use, enhancing forest restoration and protection. The GoL embraces REDD+ as the opportunity for transforming rural land use, from opportunistic revenue generation at the cost of natural resources, to strategic and efficient land use delivered through participatory and integrated planning design. The GoL has prepared Six Provincial REDD+ Action Plans (PRAPs) and an Emission Reductions Program Document (ER-PD). The ER-PD was approved by the FCPF Carbon Fund Participant Committee in June 2018, with conditional acceptance of the ER-PD into the portfolio of both Tranche A and Tranche B of the Carbon Fund. The ER-PD proposes a strategy for successfully implementing REDD+ and opportunities to receive results-based payments.
The Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is the Emission Reduction Program Entity, as approved by the World Bank’s FCPF for the first sub-national emission reduction program in Lao PDR titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL). The Program covers an area of 8.1 million hectares of six provinces located in northern Lao PDR, which includes Bokeo, Huaphan Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Sayabury. The GFLL is now operational and is looking for Chief Technical Advisor.
The candidate for above position should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least a Master’s Degree in Environmental Economics, Climate Finance, Applied Social Science, Environment Science, Forestry Science or in another related field.
- Minimum of seven to ten years of experience in work related to senior/middle management and advisory/technical position in Lao PDR.
- Familiar with project design, management, and monitoring and evaluation.
- Knowledge of the Lao PDR Government system/institutions and familiarity with forestry sector institutions including the Department of Forestry/REDD+ Division.
- Familiarity with Lao PDR emission reduction project and with key development partners engaged with the emission reduction project.
- Excellent spoken and written skills in English.
- Intermediate knowledge of the Lao language.
- Flexibility and ability to work and deliver high-quality products in a timely manner.
The consultants will be selected under selection method for Individual Consultants based on the GoL’s Law Procurement on Public Procurement No. 30/ NA dated 2nd November 2017 and the Instruction on the Implementation of Law on Public Procurement No. 0477/ MOF dated 13th February 2019. Interested eligible individual consultants may obtain full Terms of Reference from http://dof.maf.gov.la or can be sent to candidates upon written request. The Expression of Interested along with CV (including affixed recent photo) must be submitted not later than 12th July 2024 via email to the address below:
Mr. Phetdaovong Namphachan, National Project Coordinator (GFLL Project)
Deputy Director of REDD+ (Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) Division,
Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ban Phontongsavath (corner of traffic light of junction from Phonphanao Road and P-3 Road), Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
E-mail: procurement.gfll@gmail.com
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Department of Forestry
Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihood (GFLL) Project
REQUEST OF EXPRESSIONS OF IINTEREST
(for Individual Consultants)
The Emissions Reduction (ER) Programme of Lao PDR embodies the Government of Lao PDR’s (GoL) commitment to reforming land use, enhancing forest restoration and protection. The GoL embraces REDD+ as the opportunity for transforming rural land use, from opportunistic revenue generation at the cost of natural resources, to strategic and efficient land use delivered through participatory and integrated planning design. The GoL has prepared Six Provincial REDD+ Action Plans (PRAPs) and an Emission Reductions Program Document (ER-PD). The ER-PD was approved by the FCPF Carbon Fund Participant Committee in June 2018, with conditional acceptance of the ER-PD into the portfolio of both Tranche A and Tranche B of the Carbon Fund. The ER-PD proposes a strategy for successfully implementing REDD+ and opportunities to receive results-based payments.
The Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is the Emission Reduction Program Entity, as approved by the World Bank’s FCPF for the first sub-national emission reduction program in Lao PDR titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL). The Program covers an area of 8.1 million hectares of six provinces located in northern Lao PDR, which includes Bokeo, Huaphan Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Sayabury. The GFLL is now operational and is looking for Chief Technical Advisor.
The candidate for above position should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least a Master’s Degree in Environmental Economics, Climate Finance, Applied Social Science, Environment Science, Forestry Science or in another related field.
- Minimum of seven to ten years of experience in work related to senior/middle management and advisory/technical position in Lao PDR.
- Familiar with project design, management, and monitoring and evaluation.
- Knowledge of the Lao PDR Government system/institutions and familiarity with forestry sector institutions including the Department of Forestry/REDD+ Division.
- Familiarity with Lao PDR emission reduction project and with key development partners engaged with the emission reduction project.
- Excellent spoken and written skills in English.
- Intermediate knowledge of the Lao language.
- Flexibility and ability to work and deliver high-quality products in a timely manner.
The consultants will be selected under selection method for Individual Consultants based on the GoL’s Law Procurement on Public Procurement No. 30/ NA dated 2nd November 2017 and the Instruction on the Implementation of Law on Public Procurement No. 0477/ MOF dated 13th February 2019. Interested eligible individual consultants may obtain full Terms of Reference from http://dof.maf.gov.la or can be sent to candidates upon written request. The Expression of Interested along with CV (including affixed recent photo) must be submitted not later than 28rd June 2024 via email to the address below:
Mr. Phetdaovong Namphachan, National Project Coordinator (GFLL Project)
Deputy Director of REDD+ (Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) Division,
Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ban Phontongsavath (corner of traffic light of junction from Phonphanao Road and P-3 Road), Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
E-mail: procurement.gfll@gmail.com
Terms of Reference (TOR)
National REDD+ Legal Consultant
National Project Management Unit (NPMU)
Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods (GFLL) – Northern Laos
- BACKGROUND
The Government of Lao (GoL) has demonstrated its commitment to reduce emissions through its active participation in the global initiative of REDD+ – Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation. The GoL views REDD+ as an opportunity to balance conservation and development through the effective land use planning and sustainable management of its rich forest resources.
The GoL, through the Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), initiated its REDD+ Readiness process with its participation in the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF). Having completed its REDD+ Readiness, the DoF started its first sub-national emission reduction project through the FCPF’s Carbon Fund in 2018.
Titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL), the project focuses on six northern provinces of Lao PDR, namely Bokeo, Huaphan Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Sayaburi. The area constitutes approximately one-third of both the country’s geographical and forest area, with a population of 1.8 million people and where the dominant land use designation is forest. The project is managed by a National Project Management Unit (NPMU) located at the REDD+ Division of the DoF.
Given the establishment of the centralised market mechanism under Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement and the international trend towards zero emissions by 2050, Lao PDR has already initiated its preparedness to revise its national legal framework to align with emerging international requirements. This alignment would ensure that Lao PDR is well-positioned to take advantage of emerging opportunities related to emission reductions, climate finance, and the private sector. This opportunity will also allow Lao PDR to contribute to global climate goals, including its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) commitments. Lao PDR has already received several proposals from domestic and foreign private sector companies seeking certified emission reductions (ERs) for offsetting.
The National REDD+ Strategy and the 2019 Forestry Law promote forest carbon trade activities by all entities and provide general guidance on such investments. However, a legal framework and technical guidance on management, including development, approval and monitoring of forest carbon projects, harmonisation of REDD+ activities at various scales from national to field level, and how these REDD+ activities, including forest carbon trade, contribute to the achievement of the NDC 2020-2025 needs to be developed. This development needs to take into account the requirements of the market mechanism and the voluntary carbon market.
In addition, the Prime Minister’s Office has issued Instruction No. 426 dated 17 March 2023 that mandates the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) to draft a Prime Minister Decree on Carbon Credits Trading in consultation with concerned sectors. The inter-ministerial committee of Director Generals and Deputies from relevant Departments and Ministries, including the MAF/DoF and its working group, have been established to prepare a final draft by June 2024.
The International REDD+ Policy Adviser has developed a first draft of the legal framework on forest carbon projects under GFLL, and this document has been translated into Lao. The draft legal framework needs further improvement through consultations with public and private stakeholders, taking into account the development of the PM Decree on Carbon Credits Trade and making them consistent.
The GFLL is seeking to recruit a National REDD+ Legal Consultant (NRLC) for these tasks.
- OBJECTIVE OF ASSIGNMENT
The objective of the assignment is to assist the Management of the DoF and the REDD+ Division in improving and finalising the legal framework for forest carbon projects. This assignment will require the NRCL to collaborate closely with the International REDD+ Policy Adviser.
- SCOPE OF WORK AND MAIN TASKS
The Consultant will work closely with the International REDD+ Policy Adviser to develop and finalise the legal framework on forest carbon projects, including technical guidelines for template/contents of feasibility studies, criteria for acceptance of feasibility studies, templates/contents of agreements with MAF, and reporting mechanisms.
- Study existing and emerging laws and regulations related to the proposal, approval, registration and implementation of REDD+ projects financed by the private sector.
- Collect information on the progress and draft of the PM Decree on Carbon Credits Trading and provide updates.
- Review feasibility study reports submitted by investors and provide comments.
- Review draft Agreements with the MAF proposed by investors and provide comments.
- Improve the draft of the legal framework on forest carbon projects and technical guidelines, both in English and Lao languages.
- Attend meetings and consultations on the draft legal framework and technical guidelines and prepare briefing notes and presentations.
- Finalise legal documents and technical guidelines in English and Lao languages.
- Perform other tasks as requested by the REDD+ Division.
- DELIVERABLES
– Report on the analysis of existing and emerging laws relevant to the legal framework on forest carbon projects, including the Investment Law, Environment Protection Law, Property Law and Land Law, and their implementing regulations. The report should clarify the Articles and provisions of these laws and regulations with their legal impacts on the legal framework for the management of REDD+ projects and technical guidelines.
– Monthly reports on the progress and its potential impacts on the legal framework of the forest carbon projects.
– Review reports on the feasibility study reports and draft agreements with the MAF.
– Reports on consultations on drafts of the draft legal framework on forest carbon projects.
– Improved versions and final draft of the legal framework on forest carbon projects and technical guidelines.
- EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES
The candidate for the position of National REDD+ Legal Consultant should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least a bachelor’s degree in law or a relevant field.
- Good expertise and understanding of REDD+.
- A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in legal aspects of environmental management, forestry, natural resource management, and land or carbon transactions in the Lao PDR.
- Excellent analytical and consultation skills.
- General knowledge of the Lao Government systems and institutions and the environmental finance sector.
- Experience of working in the development or finance sector and working with multi-disciplinary teams.
- Good interpersonal and team-building skills.
- Excellent spoken and written skills in both the Lao and English languages.
- Flexibility and ability to work and deliver high-quality products in a timely manner.
- DUTY STATION AND DURATION
The National REDD+ Legal Consultant will report to the National Project Coordinator, REDD+ Division in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The services of the Consultant are required full-time for an initial period of six months from January 2024 onwards. The Consultant will be based at the REDD+ Division, Department of Forestry in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.
Terms of Reference
National Environmental Safeguard Consultant
Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods (GFLL) – Northern Laos
- BACKGROUND
The Emissions Reduction (ER) Programme of Lao PDR embodies the Government of Lao PDR’s (GoL) commitment to reforming land use, enhancing forest restoration and protection. The GoL embraces Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) as the opportunity for transforming rural land use, from opportunistic revenue generation at the cost of natural resources, to strategic and efficient land use delivered through participatory and integrated planning design.
The GoL has participated in the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) since May 2008. The FCPF manages two different multi-donor funds – the Fund for REDD+ Readiness Preparation Support and the Carbon Fund. Lao PDR was provided with a REDD+ Readiness Preparation grant in November 2011, which supports analytical work including the development of the REDD+ strategy, relevant legal and regulatory frameworks, capacity development including training and workshops, stakeholder consultations, communication campaigns, and awareness-raising. The FCPF Readiness has contributed to developing Lao PDR’s capacity to receive REDD+ investments. One such international investment for REDD+ is from the ER-P through results-based payments from the FCPF Carbon Fund.
The GoL has prepared Six Provincial REDD+ Action Plans (PRAPs) and an Emission Reductions Program Document (ER-PD). The ER-PD was approved by the FCPF Carbon Fund Participant Committee in June 2018, with conditional acceptance of the ER-PD into the portfolio of both Tranche A and Tranche B of the Carbon Fund. The ER-PD proposes a strategy for successfully implementing REDD+ and opportunities to receive results-based payments. The conditional acceptance of the ER-PD into the portfolio requires the GOL to address several key areas to fully comply with the Carbon Fund Methodological Framework. The Emission Reduction Purchase Agreement (ERPA) negotiations were completed in December 2020 and the Conditions of Effectiveness were met in December 2021.
The Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is the Emission Reduction Program Entity, as approved by the World Bank’s FCPF for the first sub-national emission reduction program in Lao PDR titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL) covering an area of 8.1 million hectares of six northern provinces of Lao PDR, namely Bokeo, Huaphan Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Sayaburi. The area constitutes approximately one-third of both the country’s geographical and forest area, with a population of 1.8 million people and where the dominant land use designation is forest. Northern Lao PDR is characterized by mountainous topography, remote accessibility and limited public and industrial infrastructure, unique ethnic minority communities, and a persistent prevalence of poverty as well as extensive degradation and loss of forest. The area hosts important watersheds feeding major tributaries, including the Mekong River.
The GFLL is now operational and the first emissions reduction monitoring report has to be prepared for environmental safeguards management, including capacity building of the Social and Environmental Safeguards Unit (SESU).
Safeguard Documents and Benefits Sharing Plan
An Environmental safeguards package has been developed for GFLL and has been approved by the World Bank. The safeguards package includes:
- Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA);
- Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF);
These documents have been disclosed on the DoF website (http://dof.maf.gov.la/). The Benefit Sharing Plan has also been finalized and disclosed.
Social and Environment Safeguards Unit
Social and Environmental Safeguards Units (SESUs) have been established in 6 GFLL targeted provinces for the application, management, monitoring and reporting of social and environmental safeguards.
Capacity Building Programme
To support the capacity building programme, an Approach to Capacity Building, Safeguards Training Guidebook, and the SESU Capacity Self-Assessment Tool have been developed to address the safeguard capacity building needs for different stakeholders as indicated in the ESMF.
Safeguards Information System
In 2010, Parties to the UNFCCC agreed that countries seeking to implement REDD+ should have a Safeguards Information System (SIS) to demonstrate that social, environmental, and governance safeguards are being addressed and respected. In 2011 countries confirmed that an SIS must be in place to receive results-based finance for REDD+. With the adoption of the Warsaw Framework for REDD+ in 2013, Parties agreed that before receiving results-based payments, countries should provide the most recent summaries of information. The Lao SIS document has been developed and a SIS manual has been drafted and consultations with relevant stakeholders are required.
- OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT
The objective of the assignment is to assist the National Project Management Unit/Province Project Management Units (PMU/PPMU) and the REDD+ Division under the Department of Forestry to implement the ESMF and monitor its compliance with special focus on the environmental safeguard. The National Environmental Safeguard Consultant, in close collaboration with National Environmental Safeguard Consultant and the other consultants, will support the implementation of the GFLL activities.
- SCOPE OF WORK AND MAIN TASKS
National Environmental Safeguard Consultant in close coordination with International Environmental Safeguard Consultant and other consultants under the GFLL will perform the following tasks:
- Policies, Laws and Regulations (PLRs):
- Undertake a review of relevant Policies, Laws and Regulations (PLRs) related to the Environment safeguard in Lao PDR.
- Facilitate and undertake review of the World Bank Policies on Environmental Assessment, Natural Habitats, Forests, Pest Management and others linked with Environmental safeguard.
- Take part in monitoring the emergence of new PLRs that are relevant to the implementation of REDD+ in Lao PDR. This would include PLRs in the forestry, land and natural resources and other PLRs that would have a possible impact on the drivers of deforestation and degradation.
- Remain informed of global developments with regards to environmental safeguards and relevant subject areas that would have a bearing on REDD+ in Lao PDR.
- Provide advice to the REDD+ Division on the possible environmental impacts from the related emerging PLRs on drivers of deforestation and degradation, and on global updates on REDD+.
- Update and undertake quality assurance of environmental safeguards and related documents to ensure consistency with emerging PLRs World Bank environmental safeguard requirement.
- Environmental Safeguards Management
- Develop an overall approach to environmental safeguards as per the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework.
- Provide technical support to enable the REDD+ Division/Programme to meet the Environmental safeguards requirements of existing and emerging projects, mechanisms, and investments.
- Provide technical support to the capacity and management of the Social and Environment Safeguard Unit (SESU) and to implement the capacity building plan.
- Provide input for the determination for eligibility for Sub-projects to be financed under ER Benefit Sharing programme, review the subproject and prepare list of projects requiring IEE and EIA;
- Also develop a negative list of activities and potential subprojects not recommendable for support, due to their poor environmental performance.
- Develop a screening and assessment methodology for potential specific subprojects, that will include environmental performance criteria, allow an environmental risk classification and the identification of appropriate environmental safeguards instruments; identify all relevant potential environmental risks that may arise as a result of the proposed subprojects and specific investments;
- Prepare Pesticide Management Plan (PMP), Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and in coordination with Social Safeguard Consultant contribute to the development of Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for the 6 targeted provinces.
- Provide advice on data collection for the IEE, EIA, PMP, EMP and ESMP through primary research and field visits, and consultations.
- Develop tools for the environmental safeguard compliance based on the review of the Environmental Assessment, Natural Habitats, Forests, Pest Management and others.
- Provide advice for environmental impact assessment/screening for sub-projects in the six provinces based on the annual work plan.
- Support the completion of the Safeguards Information System (SIS) and SIS Manual.
- Review manuals and guidance tools for the implementation of environmental safeguards and develop other necessary environmental safeguards Policies, Plans, Manuals for the Forest Protection Fund (FPF).
- Provide support to the FPF in consultation with the FPF and draw up a work plan.
- Provide guidance and technical inputs to the development of environmental safeguards implementation manuals for FPF (i.e., related to sub-projects screening, impact assessments and studies, grievance redress mechanisms, management plans, safeguards information systems, safeguards monitoring frameworks, and other topics as required).
- Support the design and establishment of institutional arrangements to implement the GFLL, especially at the sub-provincial level and the implementation of SESU, and SIS.
- Facilitate monitoring and reporting environmental Safeguard compliance, design safeguards monitoring and evaluation frameworks and support the establishment of a monitoring system for safeguards compliance, including a feedback and grievance redress mechanism, and support safeguards monitoring and evaluation.
- Prepare documentation, including environmental safeguard progress reports, additional management plans and frameworks as may be required, to ensure full compliance with environmental safeguards requirements.
- Capacity Development
- In coordination with the International environmental safeguard consultant design and implementation of capacity building plan for environmental safeguards and lead its implementation.
- Develop time-bound capacity building and community engagement plans for environmental safeguards implementing entities, including the SESU, forest implementing agencies, FPF, development partners and other relevant stakeholders including communities.
- Integrate safeguards into all technical approaches and implementation plans and budgets.
- Lead and facilitate national and/or sub-national capacity building events including programme orientation, environmental safeguards awareness and capacity building.
- Research and Analysis
- Facilitate to design and lead research studies and analytical work to support environmental safeguards.
- The consultant will lead research studies and analytical work to support the environmental safeguards approach, management, implementation and monitoring.
- Representation
- Represent the REDD+ Division in internal meetings including environmental safeguards progress update, National REDD+ Task Force meeting preparation, and other forums related to safeguards and associated subjects or as requested by the REDD+ Division.
- Represent the REDD+ Division in external meetings with development partners and other agencies including World Bank missions, and other external forums related to environmental safeguards and associated subjects or as requested by REDD+ Division.
- Facilitate and support design and organization of Technical Working Group meetings to ensure an improved understanding of environmental safeguards and mainstreaming in all TWG plans.
- Prepare debriefing notes on all meetings to inform the REDD+ Division on all meetings related to environmental safeguards, including TWG meetings and World Bank missions.
- Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
- Identify and describe the required instruments and procedures for managing and monitoring environmental risks develop monitoring instruments;
- Take part in the design and implementation of all monitoring and evaluation requirements related to environmental safeguards and related subjects, including benefit sharing for the ER monitoring report required in 2022 and subsequent year/s.
- Provide support to the PMU, SESU and international environmental safeguard consultant in the design and implementation of monitoring tools and an evaluation system for safeguards and related subjects including benefit sharing,
- Design monitoring and evaluation frameworks and environmental safeguard indicators for environmental safeguards monitoring and evaluation including safeguards aspects in benefit sharing.
- Provide technical inputs to the preparation of all emission reduction verification reports, including MMR and its annexes related to environment aspects.
- Contribute to inputs related to environmental safeguards and related subjects in all progress reports.
- Ensure that ER Programme measures are being implemented in accordance with the environmental Safeguards Plans of the ER Monitoring Report.
- Provide information on the implementation of the environmental safeguards plans as per FCPF ER Monitoring Report Guidelines.
- Provide information on the implementation of the benefit sharing plan of FCPF ER Monitoring Report Guidelines).
- Work Plans and Budgets
- Contribute to develop a teamwork plan to complete the required tasks over a one year period and update the plan every quarter or when required based on REDD+ Division requirements.
- Support and provide technical inputs to the preparation of quarterly and annual work plans.
- Advise on and support the preparation of the work plans of PMU/PPMU/SESU over a one-year period and update the plan every quarter or when required.
- Grievance Redress Mechanism
- Contribute to develop Grievance Redress Mechanism guidelines which included the environmental safeguard.
- Facilitate to establish the effective Grievance Redress Mechanism which can protect the rights and interests of the participants, beneficiaries, and stakeholders.
- Capacity building of the GRM focal point staff for the handling of grievances in compliance with the relevant Lao Government and GCF Safeguards on environmental issues.
- Assist to maintain database of the FGRM.
- Include the FGRM report in environmental safeguard reports.
- EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
The International Environmental Safeguards Consultant should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least bachelor Degree in Environmental Sciences, Forestry Science or in related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in work related to environmental safeguards.
- Familiar with the World Bank environmental safeguards requirements, standards, and protocols and their monitoring.
- Experience in design, facilitation and delivery of capacity building programmes related to environmental safeguard.
- Knowledge of the Lao PDR Government system/institutions and familiarity with forestry sector institutions, including the Department of Forestry/REDD+ Division would be preferred.
- Excellent spoken and written skills in English and lao languages.
- MANAGEMENT OF THE ASSIGNMENT AND TIMEFRAME
The Consultant will report to GFLL Project Coordinator. The consultancy will be on full time basis for a period of 1 year extendable based on satisfactory performance. Assignment is expected to be started from beginning of July 2023. The consultant will be based at the REDD+ Division, Department of Forestry in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR with extensively travel to the 6 targeted northern provinces.
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
The Government of Lao (GoL) has demonstrated its commitment to reduce emissions through its active participation in the global initiative of REDD+ Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation. The GoL views REDD+ as an opportunity to balance conservation and development through the effective land use planning and sustainable management of its rich forest resources.
The GoL through the Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) initiated its REDD+ Readiness process with its participation in the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF). Having completed its REDD+ Readiness DoF started its first sub-national emission reduction project through FCPF’s Carbon Fund in 2018.
Titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL) the six northern provinces of Lao PDR, namely Bokeo, Huaphan Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Sayaburi. The area constitutes approximately one-third of both the country’s geographical and forest area, with a population of 1.8 million people and where the dominant land use designation is forest. The project is managed by a National Project Management Unit (NPMU) located at the REDD+ Division of DoF.
GFLL is now in its implementation phase and is planning to recruit a National Environmental Safeguard Consultant for its NPMU
The candidate should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least bachelor Degree in Environmental Sciences, Forestry Science or in related field;
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in work related to environmental safeguards;
- Familiar with the World Bank environmental safeguards requirements, standards, and protocols and their monitoring;
- Experience in design, facilitation and delivery of capacity building programmes related to environmental safeguard;
- Knowledge of the Lao PDR Government system/institutions and familiarity with forestry sector institutions, including the Department of Forestry/REDD+ Division would be preferred;
- Excellent spoken and written skills in English and lao languages.
Interested and qualified candidates may obtain full Terms of Reference from http://dof.maf.gov.la and further information at the address below during office hours 08.00 – 16.00 hours, Monday to Friday
Expression of Interested along with CV (including affixed recent photo) must be submitted (indicated the position) not later than 24 August 2023 via mail or email to the address below:
Mr. Phetdaovong Namphachan, National Project Coordinator (GFLL Project),
Deputy Director of REDD+ (Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) Division, Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ban Phontongsavath (corner of traffic light of junction from Phonphanao Road and P-3 Road), Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR E-mail: procurement.gfll@gmail.com
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
The Government of Lao (GoL) has demonstrated its commitment to reduce emissions through its active participation in the global initiative of REDD+ Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation. The GoL views REDD+ as an opportunity to balance conservation and development through the effective land use planning and sustainable management of its rich forest resources.
The GoL through the Department of Forestry (DoF) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) initiated its REDD+ Readiness process with its participation in the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF). Having completed its REDD+ Readiness DoF started its first sub-national emission reduction project through FCPF’s Carbon Fund in 2018.
Titled Governance, Forest Landscapes and Livelihoods – Northern Laos (GFLL) the six northern provinces of Lao PDR, namely Bokeo, Huaphan Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Sayaburi. The area constitutes approximately one-third of both the country’s geographical and forest area, with a population of 1.8 million people and where the dominant land use designation is forest. The project is managed by a National Project Management Unit (NPMU) located at the REDD+ Division of DoF.
GFLL is now in its implementation phase and is planning to recruit a Part-time National Consultant for Communications and IT Support for its National Project Management Unit
The candidate should have the following experience and qualifications:
- At least a Bachelor’s Degree in English language, communications, journalism, media, computer science, computer studies, informatics, or another related field;
- Minimum of five years of experience in writing and editing in Laos and English for print/radio/television especially related to forestry, environment and/or climate change and/or knowledge of natural resource management issues in Lao PDR;
- Demonstrated experience in the development of communication materials – online, media/press releases, publications, and reports;
- Good knowledge of English and Laos, both oral and written communication skills, conveying messages to different audiences using diverse media;
- Experience in working with journalists and media networks and the ability to develop, nurture and maintain existing and new media contacts;
- Experience in editing and proofreading organizational communication materials.
Interested and qualified candidates may obtain full Terms of Reference from http://dof.maf.gov.la and further information at the address below during office hours 08.00 – 16.00 hours, Monday to Friday
Expression of Interested along with CV (including affixed recent photo) must be submitted (indicated the position) not later than 31 July 2023 via mail or email to the address below:
Mr. Phetdaovong Namphachan, National Project Coordinator (GFLL Project),
Deputy Director of REDD+ (Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) Division, Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ban Phontongsavath (corner of traffic light of junction from Phonphanao Road and P-3 Road), Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR E-mail: procurement.gfll@gmail.com
Downloads; ToR Communication and IT Support 25 June 2023 Anupam