International Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance, advocating for the global environment and working to minimize environmental threats to human well-being. The organization has a significant presence worldwide, with operations in over 150 countries and a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant is crucial for supporting dialogues and collaborative planning on natural resources and climate resilience among Eastern Mediterranean and West Asia regional states. The consultant will work under the guidance of the Senior Advisor of the Disasters and Conflicts Branch at UNEP, contributing to the ongoing efforts to address transboundary climate risks in the Euphrates-Tigris basin and surrounding regions. This role involves facilitating partnerships between the UN and various stakeholders, including national governments and international financial institutions, to communicate evidence and support adaptation initiatives. The consultant will also engage in online discussions and in-person meetings to identify climate resilience-building actions, particularly focusing on nature-based solutions. The position requires a strong emphasis on delivering technical support, conducting contextual analyses, and communicating findings to relevant stakeholders in preparation for international meetings and conferences scheduled for 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Delivering technical support to UN teams working on environment, climate change, water, peace, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues with transboundary dimensions in the Euphrates-Tigris basin.
• Engaging with national interlocutors to provide technical support and solutions design, utilizing local knowledge and relevant technologies.
• Supporting in-person meetings among regional environment and climate practitioners, leading to the identification of climate resilience-building actions.
• Conducting contextual analyses to identify socio-economic and peace gains from actions aimed at increasing environmental protection and drought resilience.
• Communicating findings and generating shareable knowledge for stakeholders on good practices and lessons learned in the lead-up to international meetings and conferences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in environmental science, engineering, hydrology, development studies, international relations, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, or a related field. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with an additional two years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a Master’s degree. A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in environmental and natural resources policy development and planning is required. Experience in the Western Asia and/or Eastern Mediterranean region is essential, along with a proven track record of producing high-quality reports and analyses for international audiences. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to draft clear analyses in English regarding climate and environmental risks.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s Degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, engineering, hydrology, development studies, international relations, or international law. A Bachelor’s degree may be considered if accompanied by additional relevant experience. The emphasis is on having a strong academic foundation that supports the technical and analytical demands of the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in environmental and natural resources policy development and planning. Candidates should have professional experience in the Western Asia and/or Eastern Mediterranean region, with a focus on producing high-quality reports and analyses. Experience in climate adaptation, ecosystems management, and water resources management is desirable, as is experience working with UN entities, multilateral development banks, and government partners, especially in contexts affected by conflict.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, including the ability to draft and edit a wide range of written reports and communications materials. Proficiency in French is also required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, the ability to speak and understand regional languages is considered desirable, enhancing communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and is expected to last for 8 months. The position does not involve any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for applications, interviews, or training. This role is part of a broader effort to support international cooperation on climate resilience and environmental protection in conflict-affected regions.