Secretary-General's Special Envoy on the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan
Job Description
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 promote and support international cooperation in the pursuit of sustainable development for all. The organization plays a crucial role in enhancing regional cooperation and coherence, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UN DESA was established to provide guidance and leadership in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development in its three dimensions—economic, social, and environmental. The organization operates globally, with a focus on various regions, including Central Asia and Afghanistan, and is committed to fostering partnerships and mobilizing resources to support sustainable development initiatives. UN DESA has a diverse workforce and collaborates with multiple stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its mission. The organization is headquartered in New York City and has a significant presence in various countries, working towards the common goal of sustainable development for all.
Job Overview:
The position of Secretary-General's Special Envoy on the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan is a high-level role within the United Nations, specifically under the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA). The Special Envoy is a member of the Secretary-General’s Global Leadership Team and is expected to embody the core values of the United Nations, including inclusion, integrity, humility, and humanity. This role involves providing strategic direction and leadership for the United Nations Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan (UNRCSDG). The Special Envoy will assist and advise the Secretary-General on matters related to sustainable development in the region, represent the Under-Secretary-General at various meetings and conferences, and promote regional cooperation to achieve long-term peace and prosperity. The Special Envoy will also be responsible for ensuring that gender considerations are integrated into all activities and policies, fostering an inclusive environment, and anticipating emerging trends that may impact sustainable development efforts. This position requires a proactive approach to policy development and the ability to translate complex information into actionable strategies that align with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Secretary-General's Special Envoy include:
Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the position must possess demonstrated leadership experience with a strategic vision and proven skills in managing complex organizations. Exceptional political and diplomatic skills are essential, along with a proven track record of engaging with high-level government officials and international stakeholders. Candidates should have intellectual leadership capabilities, creativity, and the ability to transform organizations and lead innovative approaches to sustainable development. Experience in resource mobilization and strategic partnership development is crucial, particularly with non-traditional donors. The ability to work harmoniously in a multicultural team and establish effective working relationships is also required. A strong commitment to the values of the United Nations and a good understanding of its systems and challenges are necessary for this role.
Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a graduate degree in a relevant field such as international relations, public policy, sustainable development, or a related discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas related to sustainable development, economics, or social sciences may be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a strong academic foundation that supports their ability to engage with complex issues related to sustainable development in Central Asia and Afghanistan.
Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in leadership roles, particularly within intergovernmental organizations, international non-governmental organizations, or multinational private sector entities. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, policy analysis, or related fields is typically expected. Experience in high-level negotiations and engagement with government officials and stakeholders in the region is highly desirable. Proven experience in managing teams and projects, as well as a track record of successful initiatives in sustainable development, is essential for this position.
Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. A working knowledge of French is also beneficial. Additionally, proficiency in Russian or other United Nations official languages would be considered an advantage, given the regional context of the role and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders.
Additional Notes:
The appointment for the Secretary-General's Special Envoy on the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan will be at the level of Assistant Secretary-General on a full-time basis for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. The Special Envoy will report directly to the Secretary-General through the Deputy Secretary-General and the Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. The position is based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and the costs associated with the role will be covered by voluntary contributions. Administrative support will be provided by UN DESA and the UNRCSDG, with funding for logistical support sourced from extra-budgetary contributions for the initial year of appointment.
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) is a vital part of the United Nations system, established to promote and support international cooperation in the pursuit of sustainable development for all. The organization plays a crucial role in enhancing regional cooperation and coherence, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UN DESA was established to provide guidance and leadership in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development in its three dimensions—economic, social, and environmental. The organization operates globally, with a focus on various regions, including Central Asia and Afghanistan, and is committed to fostering partnerships and mobilizing resources to support sustainable development initiatives. UN DESA has a diverse workforce and collaborates with multiple stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its mission. The organization is headquartered in New York City and has a significant presence in various countries, working towards the common goal of sustainable development for all.
Job Overview:
The position of Secretary-General's Special Envoy on the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan is a high-level role within the United Nations, specifically under the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA). The Special Envoy is a member of the Secretary-General’s Global Leadership Team and is expected to embody the core values of the United Nations, including inclusion, integrity, humility, and humanity. This role involves providing strategic direction and leadership for the United Nations Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan (UNRCSDG). The Special Envoy will assist and advise the Secretary-General on matters related to sustainable development in the region, represent the Under-Secretary-General at various meetings and conferences, and promote regional cooperation to achieve long-term peace and prosperity. The Special Envoy will also be responsible for ensuring that gender considerations are integrated into all activities and policies, fostering an inclusive environment, and anticipating emerging trends that may impact sustainable development efforts. This position requires a proactive approach to policy development and the ability to translate complex information into actionable strategies that align with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Secretary-General's Special Envoy include:
- Advising the Secretary-General and Deputy Secretary-General on sustainable development matters in Central Asia and Afghanistan.
- Representing the Under-Secretary-General at relevant meetings and conferences.
- Providing strategic direction for the UNRCSDG’s activities and developing comprehensive action plans.
- Promoting regional cooperation for peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and sustainable development.
- Ensuring gender mainstreaming in all activities and fostering an inclusive environment.
- Anticipating regional trends and risks to inform proactive policies.
- Analyzing complex information to provide strategic recommendations.
- Integrating behavioral science insights into regional policies.
- Upholding the highest standards of integrity and conduct within the organization. 1
- Carrying out any additional tasks assigned by the Under-Secretary-General.
Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the position must possess demonstrated leadership experience with a strategic vision and proven skills in managing complex organizations. Exceptional political and diplomatic skills are essential, along with a proven track record of engaging with high-level government officials and international stakeholders. Candidates should have intellectual leadership capabilities, creativity, and the ability to transform organizations and lead innovative approaches to sustainable development. Experience in resource mobilization and strategic partnership development is crucial, particularly with non-traditional donors. The ability to work harmoniously in a multicultural team and establish effective working relationships is also required. A strong commitment to the values of the United Nations and a good understanding of its systems and challenges are necessary for this role.
Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a graduate degree in a relevant field such as international relations, public policy, sustainable development, or a related discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas related to sustainable development, economics, or social sciences may be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a strong academic foundation that supports their ability to engage with complex issues related to sustainable development in Central Asia and Afghanistan.
Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in leadership roles, particularly within intergovernmental organizations, international non-governmental organizations, or multinational private sector entities. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, policy analysis, or related fields is typically expected. Experience in high-level negotiations and engagement with government officials and stakeholders in the region is highly desirable. Proven experience in managing teams and projects, as well as a track record of successful initiatives in sustainable development, is essential for this position.
Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. A working knowledge of French is also beneficial. Additionally, proficiency in Russian or other United Nations official languages would be considered an advantage, given the regional context of the role and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders.
Additional Notes:
The appointment for the Secretary-General's Special Envoy on the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan will be at the level of Assistant Secretary-General on a full-time basis for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability. The Special Envoy will report directly to the Secretary-General through the Deputy Secretary-General and the Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. The position is based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and the costs associated with the role will be covered by voluntary contributions. Administrative support will be provided by UN DESA and the UNRCSDG, with funding for logistical support sourced from extra-budgetary contributions for the initial year of appointment.
Info
Job Posting Disclaimer
This job posting is provided for informational purposes only. The accuracy of the job description, qualifications, and other details mentioned is the sole responsibility of the employer or the organization listing the job. We do not guarantee the validity or legitimacy of this job posting. Candidates are advised to conduct their own due diligence and verify the details directly with the employer before applying.
We are not liable for any decisions or actions taken by applicants in response to this job listing. By applying, you agree that all application processes, interviews, and potential job offers are managed exclusively by the listed employer or organization.
Beware of fraudulent job offers. Do not provide sensitive personal information or make any payments to secure a job.
We are not liable for any decisions or actions taken by applicants in response to this job listing. By applying, you agree that all application processes, interviews, and potential job offers are managed exclusively by the listed employer or organization.
Beware of fraudulent job offers. Do not provide sensitive personal information or make any payments to secure a job.