Project Coordinator of the Climate/SDGs Debt Swap – Donor Nexus Initiative

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) was established in 1973 with the mission to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA aims to foster cooperation among member states and provide a platform for dialogue on regional issues. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, focusing on sustainable development, economic integration, and social justice. ESCWA has a diverse workforce comprising experts from various fields, working collaboratively to address the challenges faced by member states. The organization is committed to supporting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and knowledge sharing.

Job Overview:
The Project Coordinator of the Climate/SDGs Debt Swap – Donor Nexus Initiative will play a crucial role in the operationalization of this initiative, which was launched in 2020 to assist Arab member countries in unlocking resources for climate-resilient projects. The incumbent will be responsible for providing strategic guidance and facilitating discussions among the Advisory Committee members, ensuring that the initiative aligns with national priorities and global climate objectives. This position requires participation in four meetings scheduled for 2025-2026, where the Coordinator will engage with various stakeholders, including creditor and donor representatives, to negotiate debt swap proposals and address potential challenges. The role is pivotal in fostering development cooperation and advancing the goals of the initiative, which aims to create a win-win situation for debtor countries and their creditors while contributing to climate action and sustainable development goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties and responsibilities of the Project Coordinator include:

• Participating in four meetings of the Advisory Committee to provide strategic guidance on the operationalization of the Climate/SDGs Debt Swap Initiative.
• Offering insights on the rules and feasibility of debt swaps in specific contexts, including engagement with creditors and the Paris Club Secretariat.
• Facilitating discussions with creditors and donors to negotiate debt swap proposals tailored to specific country contexts, which may involve travel for in-person meetings.
• Identifying risks and addressing potential challenges related to the debt swap process, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged.
• Providing strategic guidance on networking and advocacy efforts related to the Debt Swap Initiative, including collaboration with G20, IMF, World Bank, and UN Secretariat.
• Reviewing and commenting on debt swap proposals and associated studies to ensure they align with the initiative's objectives.
• Offering substantive feedback on the Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy for the Climate/SDGs Debt Swap programmes, ensuring that the initiative's impact is effectively measured and reported.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in economics, social science, environment, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of proven experience in implementing bilateral debt swaps and debt-for-nature swaps is required. This experience should encompass both regional and international contexts, demonstrating a deep understanding of the complexities involved in such financial arrangements. Candidates must submit a copy of their educational degree, as incomplete applications will not be considered. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential for this role, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as economics, social science, or environmental studies. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the intricate dynamics of debt swaps and their implications for sustainable development. Candidates must provide proof of their educational qualifications, as this is a mandatory requirement for application consideration.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the field of debt swaps, particularly in implementing bilateral debt swaps and debt-for-nature swaps. This experience should include a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and strategies involved in negotiating and executing such financial arrangements. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as international financial institutions, to facilitate successful debt swap initiatives. Experience in the Arab region is particularly valuable, as the initiative focuses on member countries within this context.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four areas of language use: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Additionally, knowledge of French is beneficial, as it is also a working language of the UN. Proficiency in Arabic is advantageous, given that it is a working language of ESCWA, and familiarity with this language can enhance communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of 2 months. There are no fees associated with the application process, as the United Nations does not charge candidates at any stage of recruitment. Applicants should be aware that the UN does not request information regarding bank accounts during the recruitment process. This role is critical for advancing the Climate/SDGs Debt Swap Initiative and requires a commitment to fostering sustainable development in the Arab region.