National Consultant - Enhanced Monitoring Mechanism (EMM)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), which is a part of the United Nations. DESA was established to promote sustainable development and to support the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in its work. The organization focuses on various global issues, including economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability. It operates in multiple countries around the world, providing technical assistance and policy advice to member states. DESA has a diverse workforce comprising experts from various fields, contributing to its mission of fostering inclusive and sustainable development globally.

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant for the Enhanced Monitoring Mechanism (EMM) involves strengthening the national capacity of Cambodia to integrate the EMM into existing national data, monitoring, and evaluation frameworks. This role is crucial for ensuring that Cambodia can effectively monitor its development progress, particularly as it transitions from being classified as a Least Developed Country (LDC). The consultant will work closely with the Economic Analysis and Policy Division (EAPD) of DESA, which serves as the substantive secretariat for the Committee for Development Policy (CDP). The consultant's primary objective will be to identify relevant indicators, assess existing monitoring systems, and provide recommendations for the effective integration of the EMM into national development monitoring and reporting. This consultancy is part of a broader initiative to enhance national ownership of the monitoring process and align EMM indicators with Cambodia's development priorities, ultimately strengthening the country's capacity to monitor its progress post-graduation from LDC status.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks, including:

• Producing and submitting an inception report of less than 600 words that outlines the methodology and processes to be used in the consultancy, along with a detailed work plan.
• Creating a comprehensive report not exceeding 8,000 words that includes: a. Identification of relevant indicators related to Cambodia's vulnerabilities, based on existing databases used by the CDP for monitoring. b. A review of national indicators and systems in place by relevant ministries to monitor development progress and crises. c. Recommendations for refining dashboard indicators and integrating the EMM into national monitoring systems to avoid duplication and explore synergies.
• Exploring the availability of AI-assisted tools for tracking data and supporting forecasts.
• Assisting in organizing a national validation workshop in Phnom Penh, coordinating with the Government and stakeholders, managing logistics, and presenting the report.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree or equivalent in economics, social sciences, environmental studies, natural sciences, development studies, or a related discipline. Additionally, candidates must have at least 8 years of experience in development policy analysis, with some experience working with LDC countries. Demonstrated technical and scientific expertise in public policy is essential, along with excellent policy analytical, technical, managerial, and drafting skills. The ability to prepare and present reports in English is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as economics, social sciences, environmental studies, natural sciences, or development studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of development policy and the specific challenges faced by LDCs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of experience in development policy analysis. This experience should include work with LDC countries, providing the consultant with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities these nations face in their development journeys. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with public policy issues and contributing to policy development processes.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the international context.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a duration of 3 months, and it is a home-based position. The United Nations emphasizes that it does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide any financial information or bank account details.