Consultant for Diaspora Engagement in Climate Action and Food Security

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is an intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of migrants and the communities they live in. IOM's mission includes addressing the challenges posed by climate change and migration, particularly in vulnerable regions such as Senegal and Ghana, where the impacts of climate change are increasingly severe. The organization is committed to fostering diaspora engagement to enhance climate action and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security initiatives, particularly in the context of the project "Diaspora for Climate Action and Food Security."

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the project "Diaspora for Climate Action and Food Security," which aims to strengthen the engagement of Ghanaian and Senegalese diasporas in Italy regarding climate action and food security initiatives. The selected candidate will conduct research to assess the capacity and interest of the Senegalese diaspora in Italy to engage in climate action, focusing on their past and ongoing initiatives, available green skills, and perceived opportunities and challenges. The consultant will be responsible for producing a comprehensive report that outlines the findings of this research, which will inform policy development and practical interventions aimed at enhancing diaspora contributions to climate resilience and food security in their countries of origin. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Chief of Mission and in coordination with the diaspora engagement team, ensuring effective collaboration with other consultants working on similar analyses for the Ghanaian diaspora.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be expected to perform a variety of tasks, including: attending coordination meetings with IOM; developing an inception report that outlines the methodology and timeline for the research; collecting primary and secondary data on Senegalese diaspora groups in Italy through in-person meetings, focus groups, and interviews; consulting with relevant stakeholders in coordination with IOM; analyzing the collected data and preparing a draft and final report; presenting initial findings to IOM during an online meeting; coordinating with the consultant responsible for the Ghanaian diaspora analysis; drafting a maximum 15-page report that presents main findings and recommendations; and presenting the final findings during an online meeting with external stakeholders. The consultant's work will be evaluated based on the timely delivery of high-quality reports that meet IOM's standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed university degree from an accredited institution in fields such as development studies, migration studies, international development, environmental studies, climate change, or related areas. Additionally, a minimum of 7 years of experience in conducting qualitative research in social sciences is required. The candidate should have experience in conducting interviews and consultations with diverse stakeholders, particularly diaspora groups and institutions. A demonstrated understanding of diaspora engagement and the nexus between climate change and sustainable development is essential. Familiarity with climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, food security systems, and climate finance is also required. Previous experience with IOM and working with the Senegalese diaspora in Italy or Senegal will be considered an asset. A valid work permit for Italy for the duration of the assignment is mandatory.

Educational Background:
The position requires a completed university degree from an accredited academic institution in relevant fields such as development studies, migration studies, international development, environmental studies, climate change, or related disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of diaspora engagement, climate action, and food security.

Experience:
The consultant must have a minimum of 7 years of experience in conducting qualitative research within the social sciences. This experience should include conducting interviews and consultations with diverse stakeholders, particularly those involved with diaspora groups and institutions. Demonstrated experience in the field of diaspora engagement and knowledge about the intersection of climate change and sustainable development is essential for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken Italian, English, and French is mandatory for this position. The IOM's official languages are English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments. Strong communication skills in these languages are necessary for effective collaboration and reporting.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is set to begin on March 1, 2026, and will conclude on July 31, 202

• The consultant will be required to submit a technical and financial proposal as part of the application process. The position may involve travel within Italy, but travel from outside Italy is not permitted. IOM covers consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan (CP) at no cost, but consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accidents or illnesses. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.