Research on private security engagement for reintegration

United Nations Devlopment Programme (UNDP) works in nearly 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequality and exclusion. We help countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience in order to sustain development results. This is a critical time for the world. At UNDP, we see this period as a huge opportunity to advance the global sustainable development agenda. Last year, world leaders adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to continue the work of the Millennium Development Goals. UNDP is working to strengthen new frameworks for development, disaster risk reduction and climate change. We support countries' efforts to achieve the new Sustainable Development Goals, or Global Goals, which will guide global development priorities for the next 15 years. UNDP focuses on helping countries build and share solutions in three main areas: 1. Sustainable development 2. Democratic governance and peacebuilding 3. Climate and disaster resilience In all our activities, we encourage the protection of human rights and the empowerment of women, minorities and the poorest and most vulnerable.

UNDP plays a leading role in supporting reintegration across a range of contexts and serves as co-chair of the Inter Agency Working Group on DDR (IAWG-DDR). In the capacity of co-chair, UNDP contributes to the development and promotion of the Integrated Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Standards (IDDRS), which serve as the primary international framework guiding the design and implementation of DDR programmes. As part of its ongoing commitment to improve reintegration outcomes, UNDP is exploring new entry points for collaboration, particularly with the private sector. One emerging area of interest is the potential role of private security firms in supporting reintegration efforts. These firms may offer employment opportunities, skills training, and pathways for social reintegration, particularly in fragile contexts where public sector opportunities are limited. However, this engagement must be carefully considered to ensure alignment with human rights standards and to mitigate potential risks. UNDP is cionducting a research to better understand the feasibility and implications of engaging with the private security sector in reintegration programming, UNDP intends to conduct research on the risks and opportunities of such engagement. This research will collect data, best practice, case studies and examine both opportunities and challenges.

We are seeking two online volunteers to support research (case studies, best practices, risks and incidents), draft projects and support in the preparation of the concept of an expert meeting on the topic. Online volunteer 1: TASK: online organisation of an expert meeting DELIVERABLE: Meeting organisation (coordination, concept note, invitations and 5 pages report) Online volunteer 2: TASK Online research on the movement of former members of armed forces and groups into private security DELIVERABLE: 5 pages report (with interview notes and research sources and references in annex)