1. Background:

The Carter Center (TCC) is seeking to engage a qualified and reputable law firm in Sudan to provide comprehensive legal services in support of its country operations. The selected firm will work closely with TCC management, Human Resources, Finance, and Programs to ensure legal compliance, risk mitigation, and effective engagement with relevant Sudanese authorities.

2. Objectives of the Assignment:

The objective of this RFP is to identify a law firm with demonstrated expertise in Sudanese labor law, contractual matters, organizational registration, government liaison, and immigration services, with proven experience supporting international organizations and non-governmental organizations operating in Sudan.

3. Scope of Services:

The law firm is expected to provide services including, but not limited to, the following:

3.1 Human Resources and Labor Law

• Advising on employment contracts, HR policies, disciplinary procedures, investigations, and termination processes in compliance with Sudanese labor law
• Supporting resolution of labor disputes and staff grievances
• Advising on compliance with social security, taxation, and employment-related obligations

3.2 Contracts and Legal Documentation

• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, MOUs, leases, consultancy agreements, and service contracts
• Providing legal opinions on contractual risks, liabilities, and compliance with Sudanese laws
• Advising and supporting negotiations on contract drafting, signing, amendments, and termination with vendors, partners, and service providers

3.3 Organizational Registration and Compliance

• Supporting registration, renewal, and compliance of The Carter Center with relevant Sudanese authorities
• Advising on regulatory requirements applicable to INGOs and NGOs in Sudan
• Monitoring and advising on changes in laws, regulations, or government directives affecting operations

3.4 Government and Ministry Liaison

• Liaising with relevant Sudanese ministries and government entities, including but not limited to the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Labor, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Youth and Humanitarian Aid Commission (HAC), as applicable
• Supporting applications for permits, licenses, approvals, and official correspondence
• Advising on regulatory and compliance matters related to government engagement

3.5 Visa, Work Permit, and Immigration Services

• Advising on Sudanese visa, work permit, and residency requirements for international and national staff
• Supporting visa processing, renewals, and compliance
• Coordinating with immigration, labor, and other relevant authorities

4. Confidentiality and Ethics:

The selected law firm must adhere to strict standards of confidentiality, professional ethics, and conflict-of-interest management. All information related to The Carter Center’s operations must be treated as confidential.

5. Contract Duration:

The engagement shall be for an initial period of one (1) year, on a retainer basis, subject to mutual agreement. The contract may be renewed annually based on satisfactory performance, continued operational needs, and mutual consent of both parties.

 6. Eligibility and Qualifications:

Interested law firms should demonstrate:

• Legal registration and authorization to practice law in Sudan
• Proven experience in labor law, organizational law, and immigration matters in Sudan
• Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or humanitarian and/or developement agencies
• Strong understanding of the Sudanese legal and regulatory environment
• Ability to provide timely, practical, and risk-aware legal advice
• Capacity to provide services under complex and evolving operational contexts

5. Proposal Submission Requirements:

Proposals should include the following:

• Firm profile and legal registration documentation
• Description of relevant experience and similar assignments in Sudan
• Proposed approach and methodology for service delivery
• Team composition and qualifications of key legal staff
• Proposed fee structure, including retainer and/or ad hoc rates
• At least two professional references

8. Evaluation Criteria:

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

• Relevant experience and technical competence in Sudan
• Understanding of TCC’s operational and compliance needs
• Qualifications and availability of proposed legal staff
• Cost-effectiveness and transparency of the fee structure
• Professional reputation and references