1. Background:

The MENTOR Initiative (MENTOR) is an international non-governmental organization (INGO) working to reduce death and suffering from tropical diseases and other health challenges in vulnerable communities. As part of its operational presence in Syria, MENTOR requires specialised legal support to ensure full compliance with national laws and regulations governing NGO activities.

 

2. Objective of the Assignment:

The objective of this consultancy is to provide ongoing legal advisory and representation services to support MENTOR’s operations in Syria, ensuring compliance, risk mitigation, and protection of organizational interests.

 

3. Scope of Work:

The selected legal consultancy firm will be responsible for the following:

 

   3.1. Legal Compliance and Advisory:

• Ensure that all organizational activities align with local legal frameworks governing NGOs.
• Provide legal advice on compliance with applicable Syrian laws, regulations, and administrative requirements.

   3.2. Representation:

• Represent MENTOR before judicial and quasi-judicial bodies, government entities, and relevant authorities when required.
• Handle and follow up on legal cases filed by or against the organization.

   3.3. Contracts & Agreements:

• Draft, review, and advise on legal documents, including:

                Employment contracts

                Vendor and service agreements

                Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)

• Ensure all agreements adequately protect the organization’s legal and financial interests.

  3.4. Legal Monitoring:

• Monitor changes in Syrian laws and regulations affecting NGO operations.
• Proactively inform MENTOR of any developments that may impact its activities.

   3.5. Audit & Compliance Support:

• Provide legal support during internal and external audits.
• Assist in responding to regulatory or compliance-related findings.

   3.6. Employment Matters:

• Provide legal advice on labor law issues, including:

                Recruitment

                Termination procedures

                End-of-service benefits

• Ensure all HR practices comply with Syrian labor legislation.
• Provide support on payroll calculation of taxes in the country

   3.7. Administrative & Security Approvals:

• Support in obtaining the required governmental and administrative approvals necessary for program implementation.

   3.8. Legal Correspondence:

• Review official legal correspondence prior to submission to governmental or regulatory bodies.

 

  3.9. Reporting:

• Provide periodic legal reports outlining:

• Compliance status
• Identified legal risks
• Recommended mitigation measures

 

4. Deliverables:

1. Ongoing legal advisory services
2. Reviewed and drafted legal documents
3. Legal opinions and risk assessments
4. Periodic compliance reports (monthly/quarterly as