Senior Consultant for Social Protection and Climate Change

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). Established in 1947, ESCAP is the regional development arm of the United Nations for the Asia-Pacific region. The organization aims to promote inclusive and sustainable economic and social development in the region. ESCAP operates in 62 member states and 9 associate members, working to address various socio-economic challenges faced by countries in the Asia-Pacific. The organization focuses on a range of issues including climate change, social protection, and sustainable development, and engages in capacity-building initiatives to support member states in implementing effective policies and programs.

Job Overview:
The Senior Consultant for Social Protection and Climate Change will play a crucial role in conducting research and providing analytical direction for regional and national studies focused on the intersection of climate change and social protection. The consultant will be responsible for preparing a conceptual framework that guides the analysis of informal workers and gender in relation to climate policies and social protection measures. This position requires a deep understanding of the socio-economic challenges posed by climate change, particularly for marginalized populations. The consultant will engage in desk research and key informant interviews to identify relevant economic sectors for analysis and develop common criteria for comparative studies. The role also involves drafting a regional synthesis report based on findings from multiple country studies, thereby contributing to the broader understanding of how social protection can enhance climate resilience. Additionally, the consultant will support a regional workshop aimed at disseminating findings and fostering collaboration among stakeholders in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Consultant include conducting comprehensive desk research and interviews to gather data on the impact of climate change policies on informal workers and gender. The consultant will develop a conceptual framework for regional and national activities, ensuring alignment with the needs of the countries involved. Responsibilities also include reviewing and providing feedback on drafts of country mapping and studies, as well as synthesizing findings into a cohesive regional report. The consultant will facilitate a regional workshop to share insights and promote knowledge exchange among participants. Furthermore, the consultant will be expected to engage with various stakeholders, including government representatives and international organizations, to enhance understanding and capacity in integrating social protection with climate change strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD degree in economics, social development, social administration, or labor studies, or an equivalent qualification. A minimum of 15 years of work experience in social protection is required, with at least 10 years specifically focused on social protection in a development context. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record of authoring reports and publications relevant to social protection and employment, as well as demonstrated expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Experience in advising governments in the Asia-Pacific region on social protection issues is essential, along with a strong background in climate change and its implications for social policy.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD in a relevant field such as economics, social development, social administration, or labor studies. This advanced degree should be complemented by extensive knowledge and experience in social protection systems, particularly in relation to climate change and socio-economic inequality.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically 15 years in the field of social protection, with at least 10 years of that experience in a development context. Candidates should have a strong background in conducting research and producing publications related to social protection and climate change, as well as experience working with governments and international organizations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent speaking and drafting skills required for effective communication and reporting. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is from September 1, 2025, to December 31, 202

• The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The consultant will be compensated separately for travel and daily subsistence allowances related to the regional workshop scheduled for November 9-10, 202
• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.