Request for Proposal (RFP) - Contextual analysis for enhancing programmatic engagement strategy (Taiwan)

Who we are

Global Fishing Watch is an international, non-profit organization committed to advancing ocean governance through increased transparency. We use cutting-edge technology to create and publicly share knowledge about human activity at sea, promoting fair and sustainable use of our ocean.

Our main focus is on commercial fishing, which is the most widespread and impactful human activity at sea, vital to global livelihoods and food security. By 2030, we aim to monitor and visualize the impact of both industrial and small-scale vessels responsible for most of the global seafood catch.

Global Fishing Watch works with governments and other stakeholders to co-develop solutions and build local capacity to tackle IUU fishing and enhance marine protection.

Who we are looking for

Global Fishing Watch is seeking to identify an experienced individual or group with good knowledge and familiarity with the Taiwanese governance context, especially as it relates to international engagement and collaboration. The intention is to enhance the organization’s strategy for supporting and highlighting Taiwan’s efforts to address IUU fishing, with due consideration to the global policy landscape. The individual or group is expected to provide actionable insights that can directly inform and strengthen the organization’s programmatic approach to contribute to the government’s ocean governance initiatives.

The candidate should be adept with a remote working environment, and preferably located within the Asia region, especially in Taiwan. 

Scope of work

This assignment aims to provide an in-depth analysis of Taiwan's current governance context and to identify opportunities for meaningful and sustainable engagement.

This assignment will be conducted over a one-month period and will include the following outputs:

Desk research report: A legal and policy analysis will be conducted to generate a summary report that outlines:

1. Overview of Taiwan’s participation in international systems and cooperative arrangements, including relevant international agreements and resolutions related to fisheries management and ocean governance.
2. Terminology and referencing standards adopted by various international and local stakeholders.
3. High-level assessment of potential implications and considerations related to variations to the nomenclature standards.
4. Interactions between Taiwan and Global Fishing Watch’s core partners, including countries, governments, regional and national bodies and agencies.

Findings and recommendations: 

1. Recommended terminology and referencing approaches that balance contextual sensitivity, legal compliance, and operational clarity, tailored to different identified use cases. This could be in the form of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) or a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document.
2. Practical guidance to promote inclusivity with key internal and external stakeholders and agencies, including other NGOs, operating in-country and mitigate legal and political risks, taking into account governance structures and external engagement dynamics.
3. A presentation to the Global Fishing Watch staff on the recommendations and introduction of FAQs.

The required deliverables are outlined in the Annex.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Law, Public Policy, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of professional experience conducting legal or regulatory analysis related to international organizations, or development cooperation.
• Demonstrated experience working on assignments related to:
• Regulatory environments for INGOs, NGOs, or civil society;
• Legal frameworks in Taiwan;
• International development and economics.
• Prior experience conducting desk-based legal or policy research and writing for non-legal audiences (e.g., NGOs, donors, international organizations).
• Proficient in English, both written and verbal.
• An ability to work under pressure and within a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive self-starter with a keen eye for opportunities, ensuring Global Fishing Watch is informed in a timely manner.

Previous experience undertaking legal and regulatory analysis in relation to international ocean governance and/or fisheries management, including on the high seas, would be highly desirable. 

Note: If you do not fulfil all the essential requirements but feel you can contribute to the team, we encourage you to apply and describe your interests in the cover letter.

Submission requirements

Interested individuals should submit a proposal via Greenhouse, including a detailed plan and budget.

The proposal should consist of:

• A cover letter explaining the provider’s interest and qualifications for the consultancy, including a description of previous experience with the types of work proposed in the RFP.
• Resume/CV of the candidate.
• A narrative proposal outlining the scope of services you can provide, demonstrating alignment with our goals and objectives. (Word document)
• A descriptive budget (max US$2,000 in an Excel file) 

Submission deadline

Proposals should be submitted by 11 July 2025