Consultant to Provide Substantive Support to the Working Group on Guiding Principles on Responsible Sovereign Borrowing and Lending

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), which was established to promote sustainable development and to coordinate the efforts of the UN system in this area. The organization plays a crucial role in facilitating international cooperation and providing substantive support to member states in their efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UN DESA operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to address pressing global challenges. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals from various fields, contributing to its mission of fostering inclusive and sustainable development worldwide.

Job Overview:
The consultant will provide substantive support to the Working Group tasked with developing a consolidated set of voluntary guiding principles on responsible sovereign borrowing and lending. This role involves conducting high-quality research, preparing documentation, and facilitating stakeholder consultations to ensure the effective implementation of the Sevilla Commitment. The consultant will work closely with the Chief of the Policy Analysis and Development Branch and other colleagues within the Financing for Sustainable Development Office (FSDO) to guide the Working Group's efforts in addressing sovereign debt challenges. The position requires a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding sovereign borrowing and lending, as well as the ability to synthesize existing principles and propose actionable recommendations for their implementation. The consultant will also be responsible for preparing interim and final reports, advising on meeting agendas, and engaging with relevant stakeholders to disseminate findings and recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties and responsibilities include:

• Guiding the Working Group on the coverage, overlap, and differences of existing principles related to responsible sovereign borrowing and lending, including conducting research and preparing analyses.
• Advising on mechanisms for adherence and implementation of these principles, including researching methods and tools to enhance compliance.
• Providing substantive guidance for all meetings of the Working Group, including preparing documents and contributing to the development of meeting agendas.
• Assisting in the preparation of interim and final reports, including drafting sections and ensuring consistency in the reports.
• Engaging in outreach and consultation efforts with stakeholders to discuss the Working Group's progress and recommendations.
• Contributing to the implementation of the debt package of the Sevilla Commitment, including drafting background materials and conducting research for the Financing for Sustainable Development Report.
• Providing monthly progress reports to track the consultant's contributions and the Working Group's advancements.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in development studies, international relations, economics, finance, political science, law, or a related field. Candidates must possess detailed knowledge of policy issues surrounding sovereign debt and principles of sovereign borrowing and lending. A publication record on sovereign debt issues is essential, along with a minimum of 5 years of established expertise in sustainable development and financing for development. Previous experience working with the United Nations or other international organizations, particularly in engaging with experts and member states, is desirable. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and drafting skills are also required to effectively convey complex information and facilitate discussions.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as development studies, international relations, economics, finance, political science, law, or a related discipline. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of sovereign debt and the principles governing borrowing and lending practices.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of established expertise in the field of sustainable development and/or financing for development is required. This experience should include work related to financing policy and analysis, as well as familiarity with the dynamics of sovereign debt issues. Previous roles within the United Nations or other international organizations, particularly those involving collaboration with member states and preparation of background documents, will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and contribute to international discussions.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for 12 months, from October 19, 2026, to October 18, 202

• The consultant will be required to provide monthly progress reports to ensure accountability and track the progress of the Working Group's initiatives. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.