Indigenous Peoples Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve nutrition. FAO's work is guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, thereby contributing to better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

Job Overview:
The Indigenous Peoples Specialist will play a crucial role within the Partnerships and UN Collaboration Division (PSU) of FAO, specifically within the Indigenous Peoples Unit (PSUI). This position is designed to provide technical support to Indigenous Peoples and ensure the effective implementation of the FAO Policy on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, FAO technical divisions, and other UN organizations, to promote rights-based and sustainable development. The role involves engaging with Indigenous Peoples to advocate for their rights, integrating their issues into FAO's work, and ensuring that their voices are heard in policy processes. The incumbent will be responsible for providing technical insights across FAO's work, focusing on seven key pillars related to Indigenous Peoples' food systems, governance, and capacity development, among others. The position requires a proactive approach to building partnerships and facilitating dialogue between decision-makers and Indigenous Peoples, ensuring that their rights and needs are prioritized in FAO's initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Indigenous Peoples Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: supporting the implementation of the FAO Policy on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples; preparing and following up on Letters of Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding; assisting FAO technical units in integrating Indigenous Peoples' work, particularly regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC); organizing capacity development sessions for FAO staff; integrating FPIC into the FAO project cycle; advising on FPIC-related content in project design and implementation; developing regional FPIC focal point networks; delivering training sessions on FPIC; analyzing and making recommendations for relevant projects; supporting activities related to Indigenous Peoples' food and knowledge systems; assisting in organizing technical meetings and workshops; reviewing and contributing to technical reports and studies; liaising with FAO divisions for support and monitoring; and supporting resource mobilization efforts for technical work with Indigenous Peoples.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements: for consultants, an advanced university degree in agricultural sciences, development studies, environmental science, social sciences, anthropology, human rights, or a related field is required. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. For Personal Services Agreements (PSAs), a university degree in a related field is necessary. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of relevant experience in public or private sectors related to outreach and programming in food and agriculture. Proficiency in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian is required, with full proficiency in at least one language being mandatory.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in fields such as agricultural sciences, development studies, environmental science, social sciences, anthropology, human rights, or any other area relevant to FAO's mandate. For those applying as consultants with a bachelor's degree, an additional two years of relevant professional experience is necessary to compensate for the lack of an advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should possess a minimum of two years of relevant experience in either public or private sectors, specifically related to outreach and programming in food and agriculture. Experience working with Indigenous Peoples and in diverse geographical locations is highly valued, as is familiarity with Indigenous Peoples' food systems, governance, and rights. Experience in FPIC processes is particularly important for consultants focusing on FPIC matters.

Languages:
Full proficiency in at least one of the UN official languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is mandatory. Additionally, the ability to work and write in at least two UN official languages is considered a strong asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve international travel, particularly when activities are carried out at the country level. The role is designed for individuals who are committed to promoting the rights and welfare of Indigenous Peoples and who possess the necessary skills to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, ensuring that the selected candidate is adequately supported in their role.