Individual Contractor for SDG Localization Analysis

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) is a vital part of the United Nations system, established to support the global community in achieving sustainable development. UN DESA plays a key role in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization focuses on providing substantive support and capacity-building for the SDGs and their related thematic issues, including water, energy, climate, oceans, urbanization, transport, science and technology, and partnerships. UN DESA is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable development worldwide, and it operates in multiple countries, engaging with various stakeholders to promote the SDGs.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Contractor for SDG Localization Analysis is designed to support the Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG) within UN DESA. The contractor will engage in evidence-based research and analysis to inform discussions leading up to the 2027 SDG Summit and the development of a post-2030 framework. The role emphasizes the importance of local and regional authorities in implementing the SDGs and recognizes their growing contributions. The contractor will be responsible for developing analytical materials, updating localization guidance, and engaging with various stakeholders to enhance the coherence and impact of SDG localization efforts. This home-based consultancy is expected to last for 65 working days, with the possibility of extension, and will require a proactive approach to support the advancement of the 2030 Agenda through localized solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The contractor will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including: (a) Evidence-based research and analysis:

• Conducting an analysis of best practices in accelerating SDG implementation through localization, utilizing the work of various divisions within the DESA Network.
• Updating UN DESA’s localization guidance materials based on experiences from project countries, ensuring alignment with the Secretary-General’s guidance on Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) and Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs).
• Engaging with the Local2030 Coalition Task Force to analyze existing capacity-building materials and identify gaps in SDG localization. (b) Results-oriented technical cooperation and partnerships:
• Supporting the organization of the 2026 International Mayors Forum, including drafting background materials and liaising with project countries.
• Assisting national consultants in project countries to advance SDG acceleration through localization. (c) Awareness raising and knowledge management:
• Developing and disseminating social media content to highlight SDG localization initiatives and share best practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in development policy or planning, economics, social sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have at least five years of relevant professional experience in areas such as national development planning, local development research, sustainable development, localization analysis, and data visualization. Familiarity with Voluntary National Reviews and Voluntary Local Reviews processes, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals, is essential. Previous experience with the United Nations or its agencies is desirable, along with strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as development policy, planning, economics, or social sciences. A first-level university degree may be considered if accompanied by sufficient relevant experience, specifically two additional years of qualifying experience in related areas.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience. This experience should encompass national development planning, local development research, sustainable development, localization analysis, and data visualization. Candidates should also demonstrate familiarity with the principles of effective governance for sustainable development and have experience in training local government authorities on sustainable development practices.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to international discussions.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and expected to last for 65 working days, with the possibility of extension. The position does not involve any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and the United Nations does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.