Terms of Reference (ToR) for Expert to Develop Content for the Online Learning Course

Reference Title:

Terms of Reference for an Expert to develop materials for the Online Learning Course consisting of up to seven thematic modules on existing international sanctions, compliance methods, and tools utilized in best-practice cases. 

General Background:

The Center for Strategy and Development (CSD) is working on a project to explore a newer approach to sanctions enforcement and compliance and raise broader public awareness in the South Caucasus and Central Asia. The project will focus on creating a multi-language, online learning platform, where compliance, sanctions, safety officers, practitioners in procurement, and researchers from multi-sector public or private stakeholders will be able to receive the most up-to-date information on international sanctions. The learning platform will include relevant regional contexts, adapted to multiple languages for broader accessibility, that will enrich the content for beneficiaries.

The objective of the Assignment:

Expert(s) (Both, International and local experts are welcome to apply) to contribute to the development of the materials for the free and accessible regionally-focused online sanctions learning course. The online learning courses will emphasize the need to develop robust and flexible processes to move beyond list-based compliance to help detect and deter active sanctions evasion activities and be designed for vetted sanctions compliance, export control compliance, security officers, researchers and relevant stakeholders. The course will go in-depth and fully examine the following topics: 

Sanctions and Trade Control – Overview of key governing bodies, states, and international organizations issuing sanctions, focusing on regional security. Covers international sanctions like LSPs, CAATSA-231, BIS Entity List, Military End-User List, EU sanctions, and measures from Japan, Australia, UNSCR, and OFAC.

Resources – Essential tools for sanctions officers to stay updated on evolving Western sanctions.

KYC & KYCC – While KYC is established, KYCC is crucial for detecting sanctions evasion. This module explores KYCC processes with case studies.

Data Analysis – Use of big data tools for monitoring suspicious transactions.

Compliance Programs – Strategies to strengthen compliance through private-public partnerships and cross-sector cooperation.

Tools & Mechanisms – Collection of relevant software, website aggregates, and other resources.

Country-Specific Context – Tailored guidance for sanctions officers in South Caucasus and Central Asia with a focus on public-private collaboration to counter evasion.

Key Required Qualifications for the task for expert: 

• Proven experience in sanctions compliance - Strong background in international sanctions regimes, trade controls, and compliance frameworks and Experience working with regulatory authorities, financial institutions, or compliance departments.
• Expertise in online learning and training development - Experience designing educational materials for e-learning platforms, particularly in the areas of law, international trade, finance, or security. Familiarity with instructional design methodologies and adult learning principles.
• Knowledge of Regional Context (South Caucasus & Central Asia) - Understanding of local and regional sanctions enforcement challenges and best practices. Experience working in or researching compliance issues in the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
• Strong research and analytical skills - Ability to conduct in-depth research on evolving sanctions frameworks, case studies, and enforcement mechanisms and experience in developing practical guidelines and recommendations. 

Deliverables:

• Up to seven thematic modules for the online learning course summarizing key concepts and fully examining the topics emphasized in the section “The objective of the Assignment” above
• Post Tests for each module and final assessment test for users of the online learning course to provide a certification of completion 
• Transcripts for the video-modules’ text
• If possible, technically ensuring the video recording of each module for the online learning platform

Individuals should submit: 

• CV (no format suggested)
• Portfolio and proof of similar work
• 2 references/contact points
• Budgetary allocations (Per day calculation)

Applicants should send the requested documents by April 20, 2025 to vacancy@gcsd.org.ge Please indicate “SANCTIONS/Expert/Online Learning Course” in the subject line.