Consultant pour l’adaptation de Transforming Masculinities à l’environnement en République démocratique du Congo

Terms of Reference (ToR)

Research Consultant: Gender- Environment Research, Transforming Masculinities Adaptation, and M&E System

I. Post Title: Research Consultant for Gender-Environment Research, Transforming Masculinities Adaptation, and M&E System

II. Contract Duration: The total number of working days is 69

Background

Tearfund DRC plans to implement an initiative focused on the intersection of environment and gender-based violence in Aru territory, Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Environmental degradation, climate change, and resource scarcity in DRC significantly exacerbate risks of gender-based violence (GBV) and entrench harmful social norms. Tearfund DRC integrates gender transformation into environmental and humanitarian action as a standard practice. Building on previous TM adaptations (such as the Passages project), Tearfund seeks to go deeper by implementing gender-transformative approaches that directly address how environmental stressors fuel SGBV and marginalization. Tearfund DRC aims to collaborate with key research and institutional partners to adapt the Transforming Masculinities (TM) approach to promote environmental protection, sustainable natural resource management, and the reduction of GBV. This project aims to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of Transforming Masculinities in addressing environmental challenges and reducing GBV in vulnerable communities.

The “Transforming Masculinities” approach was developed and piloted in 2013 to work towards gender justice through a gender transformative model, founded on the principles and sacred texts of the world faiths that value the wellbeing and equality of all human beings. Transforming Masculinities (TM) is an evidence-based approach to transforming harmful concepts of gender and masculinities, and to promoting gender equality. Developed by Tearfund, TM has been adapted, scaled and implemented in multiple settings worldwide in efforts to reduce gender-based violence. In adapting and advancing the evidence on approaches that work across sectors and outcomes to reduce SGBV.

A core priority under Tearfund DRC’s environmental and protection pillar is mitigating GBV risks associated with natural resource access and climate change, while advancing equitable decision-making and gender equality. Emerging evidence highlights the reinforcing link between environmental degradation and entrenched social norms in heightening SGBV risks for women and girls in the DRC.

VI. Objectives of the Research/Assessment (Scope of the work)

❏ Conduct mixed-methods research (qualitative and quantitative landscape study on social norms at the intersection of gender, GBV and the environment), including the development of all research instruments (questionnaires, ethical protocols, etc.), data analysis, and reporting.

VII. Objectives of the Adaptation, Monitoring and Evaluation and Learning

❏ Adapt and contextualize the Transforming Masculinities model to address harmful norms and promote positive behaviors regarding environmental protection and GBV prevention in the DRC.

❏ Develop a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework, including valid measures and instruments to assess shifts in social norms.

❏ Strengthen the evidence base and organizational learning concerning the intersection of environmental protection and GBV mitigation.

❏ Lead the drafting of technical papers, assessment reports, and evidence briefs based on research findings to inform advocacy and programming.

❏ Curate and synthesize relevant technical resources and literature, providing critical interpretation to enhance project implementation and contextual relevance.

The phases of testing and piloting are not considered for this Consultancy and might come after this (FY) period; the consultant may be contacted in the future to assist with the finalization of the materials.

VIII. Competencies:

● Research & Partnership Experience: Demonstrable experience in conducting high-quality research and successfully collaborating with local and international stakeholders within a consortium setting.

● M&E Framework Development: Proven expertise in designing, implementing, and managing monitoring and evaluation frameworks, tools, and methodologies.

● Data Analysis & Evaluation: Strong technical proficiency in quantitative and qualitative statistical data evaluation, interpretation, and reporting.

● Communication & Reporting: Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and French, with a demonstrated ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights.

● Thematic Expertise: Substantial project experience across gender equality, environmental protection, climate adaptation, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) prevention, preferably in the DRC or similar contexts.

IX. Key Stakeholders and Participants: This consultancy aims to engage a diverse range of stakeholders, including:

● Independent researchers and consultants

● Programme staff and organizational partners engaged in the environment and GBV research agenda

● Representatives from local, provincial or national ministries (Environment, Gender, etc.)

● Specialists in research translation, communication, and evidence uptake

● Advocacy professionals focused on influencing policy through research findings

X. Reporting and Collaboration

The consultant will operate under the direct supervision of the Tearfund DRC Country Director based in Goma. The assignment will involve close collaboration with Tearfund DRC Programme Sector Leads.

Additionally, the consultant will maintain communication with the Global SGBV Specialist (based in Goma, DRC) and the Global Leadership Team on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence to ensure alignment with global standards and strategic objectives.

XI. Submission Guidelines

Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and a comprehensive technical proposal structured under the following headings:

1. Contact Information ( scan of passport or ID)

2. Relevant Experience (including 2–3 research samples from previous work, contract of previous work)

3. Proposed Methodology

4. Work Plan (including a detailed timeline aligned with the 69-day level of effort)

5. Financial Proposal (including daily rate and itemized costs)

6. References (two professional references with contact details and portfolio links to previous work, if available)

XII. Financial Guidelines and Selection Criteria

Applicants must submit a fully inclusive proposed daily rate. Financial proposals will be evaluated based on value for money. Eligible operational costs—including international travel, local transportation, and accommodation directly related to the execution of this assignment—will be covered by Tearfund, subject to prior approval.

XIII. Evaluation Criteria & Weighting

1. Technical Proposal (70% / 70 points)

• Consultant's Experience and Qualifications (25 pts): Proven experience in research, gender, GBV, environment, and mastery of transformative approaches (TM).
• Proposed Methodology and Approach (30 pts): Relevance of the mixed-methods research methodology, TM model adaptation, and Monitoring & Evaluation framework.
• Work Plan and Timeline (15 pts): Feasibility of the schedule relative to the 69-day level of effort and adherence to key deadlines (Nov 2026 – Mar 2027).

2. Financial Proposal (30% / 30 points)

• Value for Money and Daily Rate (30 pts): Competitiveness of the daily rate and transparency of the cost structure.

XIV. Tender Schedule and Submission Details

• Call for Tenders Issued: September 15th, 2026
• Application Deadline: Oct 07th, 2026, via email to [email protected]
• Commencement of Assignment: On or before November 1, 2026

Proposal Formatting: Maximum 5 pages for the tender document (excluding CVs, personal bibliography, and research samples)

Note: Tearfund does not request or collect fees of any kind at any stage of the selection process (submission and processing of bids). Access to the Coupa platform is free of charge.

We urge you to remain vigilant and to categorically refuse any request for money regarding your submission from anyone claiming to be a "Tearfund agent." The only authorized personnel will contact you via the following email address: [email protected]