Tenders are invited for Consultancy - Research on the State of Child Protection Systems and Services in Lebanon. ABOUT ABAAD ABAAD Resource Center for Gender Equality is a UN ECOSOC-accredited organization that aims to achieve gender equality as an essential condition for sustainable social and economic development in the MENA region. ABAAD promotes gender justice through a rights-based approach and works to end gender-based violence (GBV) by providing holistic protection and support services for women and girls, engaging men in positive masculinity, and building institutional and community capacities to advance gender equality and protection. Research on the State of Child Protection Systems and Services in Lebanon 1. Background Lebanons child protection system is under severe strain due to overlapping crises, including economic collapse, ongoing conflict, mass displacement, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges have exacerbated childrens vulnerabilities, with significant gaps in service provision, coordination, and policy responses. To address this, ABAAD is commissioning a comprehensive evidence-based study to systematically examine the state of child protection in Lebanon, critically assess gaps, and analyze emerging trends, particularly in relation to sexual abuse. What distinguishes this research from previous efforts is its focus on the intersection between child protection and gender-based violence, providing a more integrated understanding of protection challenges and responses to child sexual abuse. Findings will be synthesized into a comprehensive research report and five sector-specific policy briefs (education, healthcare, social affairs, justice, and telecommunications) to inform policy and practice. This research will directly inform the development of a specialized child protection training curriculum and capacity-building interventions for frontline practitioners. 2. Objectives of the Assignment The overall objective is to generate centralized, reliable, and up-to-date data on child protection issues in Lebanon to: Map the current state of child protection systems and services (particularly in relation to child sexual abuse). Identify protection gaps and vulnerabilities, with emphasis on the impact of multi-layered crises. Analyze how GBV trends intersect with child protection risks. Assess the impact of socio-cultural, economic, and emerging trends (e.g., family dynamics, digital risks). Provide actionable policy recommendations tailored to key sectors. 3. Scope of Work The recruited researcher(s)/research institution will be responsible for the following: 3.1.Inception Phase Hold an inception meeting with ABAAD and key stakeholders (e.g., UPEL, UNICEF, Ministry of Social Affairs, Embassy of the Netherlands). Align on research scope, objectives, research questions, and expectations. Develop and present an inception report including methodology, sampling, and timeline. 3.2.Desk Review / Literature Review Conduct a systematic review of existing studies, reports, and data sources. Identify knowledge gaps and avoid duplication with existing initiatives. 3.3.Research Design & Tools Design research tools (qualitative and/or quantitative). Develop the research methodology section, ensuring ethical standards. Pilot tools and revise based on lessons learned. 3.4.Data Collection & Analysis Collect primary data from diverse stakeholders (practitioners, policymakers, service providers, families). Ensure engagement of national protection actors throughout. Clean, organize, and analyze data using rigorous methods. 3.5.Validation & Consultation Facilitate a data validation workshop with ABAAD, the Netherlands Embassy, and stakeholders. Triangulate findings through key informant interviews and stakeholder consultations. 3.6.Reporting & Deliverables Draft and submit the first version of the research report. Revise based on ABAADs internal review and donor feedback. Produce the final research report. Develop five sector-specific policy briefs (education, healthcare, social affairs, justice, telecommunications). Support dissemination through presentations to stakeholders. 4. Deliverables Inception Report Desk Review Summary Finalized Research Tools Primary Data Collection Completed Cleaned & Organized Dataset Validation Workshop Report Draft Research Report (Version 1) + Outlines of 5 Policy Briefs Revised Draft (Version 2) incorporating ABAAD internal review Final Research Report + 5 Sector Policy Briefs Dissemination Presentations + Handover of Source Files/Datasets 5. Timeline The assignment is expected to run from November 2025 to May 2026. 6. Required Qualifications Advanced degree in Social Sciences, Child Protection, Gender Studies, Public Policy, or related field. Proven expertise in child protection and GBV research in Lebanon or the MENA region. Experience in mixed-methods research (qualitative and quantitative). Strong analytical and report-writing skills. Familiarity with ethical considerations in research involving children and vulnerable populations. Demonstrated ability to engage with national stakeholders (ministries, UN agencies, NGOs). Excellent written and spoken English and Arabic. 7. Ethics & Safeguarding The research must comply with ABAADs safeguarding policies and international ethical standards for research with children and vulnerable populations. Researchers are required to apply a child safeguarding and protection protocol covering informed consent, confidentiality, data protection, and referral mechanisms for identified protection concerns. All team members must sign and adhere to ABAADs Code of Conduct. Data collection will ensure the do no harm principles, anonymity, and respect for participant dignity at all times. 8. Management and Coordination The researcher(s) will report to ABAADs Director and work closely with the Project Coordinator. Regular check-ins will be scheduled to review progress. MEAL team support will be provided for tool validation and quality assurance. Deadline: Monday, 27. Oct 2025 Tender Link : https://www.daleel-madani.org/calls-for-proposal
