Request for Proposal (RFP) - Review of the enabling environment for country engagement (Vietnam)

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 engage an experienced individual or group with good knowledge and familiarity with the Vietnamese regulatory framework for engaging with international organizations. The intention is to help deepen the organization’s understanding of the country’s existing mechanisms, protocols and overall engagement ecosystem to ensure the alignment and effectiveness of our approach. The individual or group must be able to provide strategic recommendations to firm up the organization’s country engagement strategy with due consideration of the country’s laws and regulations. 

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

Scope of work

This assignment aims to provide a comprehensive review of the existing regulatory environment, protocols, and requirements governing international organizations operating in Vietnam, and to recommend practical measures to support adherence.

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

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

1. Overview of existing laws, regulations and administrative procedures that apply to international organizations working and engaging with government, civil society, or other local stakeholders.
2. Clarification of the scope of permissible activities in Vietnam as related to the work of Global Fishing Watch, including required preparatory processes and requirements, as applicable.
3. Summary of recent legal and regulatory developments that may affect the operational space for international actors.

Findings and recommendations: 

1. Key findings on enabling factors, including the limitations that should be considered in planning the engagement.
2. Provide options for various routes of engagement based on existing models of other institutions (examples of other NGOs, INGOs operating in the country)
3. Practical recommendations to align operations with the current regulatory environment applicable to international non-profits, including guidance on what is required to ensure compliance, both for in-country physical presence and for remote operations conducted through local partnerships.
4. Suggested engagement strategies with different country stakeholders, tailored to the types of support and engagement events.
5. Proposed operational model with risk mitigation strategies to ensure compliance and safeguard program delivery, and ensure operational compliance.
6. Presentation to Global Fishing Watch staff on these key findings and recommendations.

 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 Vietnam;
• International development, donor compliance, or civic space issues.
• Prior experience conducting desk-based legal or policy research and writing for non-legal audiences (e.g., NGOs, donors, international organizations).
• Proficient in English and Vietnamese language skills, 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 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