Individual Specialist/Expert in Indigenous and Local Knowledge

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Position Title: Individual Specialist/Expert in Indigenous and Local Knowledge
Location: Paris
Country: France
Deadline Date: 20/12/2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which was established in 194

• UNESCO's mission is to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO is dedicated to fostering a culture of peace, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring that education is accessible to all, while also preserving cultural heritage and promoting scientific research.

Job Overview:
The position is for an Individual Specialist/Expert in Indigenous and Local Knowledge, specifically within the Section for Indigenous and Local Knowledge (SC/PBS/ILK) at UNESCO. The role involves providing technical support to the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Network (BES-Net) and contributing to the Local and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (LINKS) Programme. The specialist will work on integrating Indigenous and local knowledge into biodiversity conservation efforts, climate action, and disaster risk reduction. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including Indigenous Peoples and local communities, to ensure their knowledge is recognized and utilized in decision-making processes. The consultant will also be involved in developing communication strategies and products to enhance the visibility of Indigenous and local knowledge initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Individual Consultant will be responsible for several key tasks:

• Providing technical, capacity building, and logistical expertise for the successful implementation of BES-Net Indigenous and local knowledge project activities in the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) region.
• Offering guidance to the Dominican Republic National Ecosystem Assessment team to incorporate local and traditional knowledge into their assessment outputs.
• Supporting the ongoing BES Solution Fund project in Colombia and promoting local community engagement in Grenada's National Ecosystem Assessment findings.
• Facilitating Trialogue(s) targeting the LAC region to enhance Indigenous and local knowledge integration.
• Assisting Trinidad and Tobago in implementing the new flagship "Indigenous and Local Knowledge Outlook of Biodiversity."
• Collaborating with the BES-Net communications team to develop communication products and a digital communication strategy to amplify Indigenous and local knowledge holders' voices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in ecological sciences or social sciences, with a specialization in Indigenous Peoples issues and/or Indigenous and local knowledge. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience, including at least 3 years working directly with Indigenous Peoples and local communities, and a proven track record in project management and coordination. Experience in communication work is also required, with at least 2 years in this area.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, such as a master's degree or equivalent, in fields related to ecological sciences or social sciences. A preferred specialization in Indigenous Peoples issues and/or Indigenous and local knowledge is highly desirable, as it aligns with the core functions of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience, with at least 3 years specifically focused on working with Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Candidates should also have experience in project management and coordination, particularly in multicultural and multidisciplinary settings. Additionally, at least 2 years of experience in communication work is necessary to effectively fulfill the role's responsibilities.

Languages:
Candidates must demonstrate excellent proficiency in both English and Spanish, both written and spoken. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the LAC region.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position ranges from 7 to 11 months, and it is open to external candidates. The position is full-time, and the consultant will operate from their own premises. Interested candidates are required to submit an application online, including an up-to-date CV, an indication of their approach to the assignment, and a financial proposal. UNESCO emphasizes a zero tolerance policy against harassment and is committed to achieving gender parity and workforce diversity. Applications will be treated confidentially, and individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.