Consultant for ABS Strategy and Action Plan

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Consultant for ABS Strategy and Action Plan
Location: Nairobi
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP's Law Division is responsible for carrying out UNEP's functions in the field of environmental law and governance, focusing on national and international governance and related policy issues, including those related to Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). Established to address global environmental challenges, UNEP has been instrumental in promoting sustainable development through sound environmental practices since its inception in 197

• With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 150 countries, collaborating with various stakeholders to foster environmental sustainability and resilience.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the development of a ten-year Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Strategy and Action Plan for South Sudan. This position involves extensive consultation and coordination with the ABS Programme Management Office (PMO) and stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive review of relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to ABS. The consultant will conduct stakeholder mapping and analysis, undertake a situation analysis of ABS implementation, and identify strategic objectives and key result areas through a consultative process. The consultant will also review institutional capacities and make recommendations for enhancing the legal and administrative frameworks necessary for the effective implementation of ABS in South Sudan. The ultimate goal is to create a conducive environment for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources, thereby contributing to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the consultant include:

• Proposing a strategy for achieving the strategic objectives and key results related to ABS.
• Developing an action plan that encompasses the protection of the rights of local and indigenous communities, safeguarding traditional knowledge, and enhancing the capacity of stakeholders.
• Establishing an institutional framework, communication strategy, and knowledge management systems that promote gender and social inclusion.
• Preparing a resource framework for the plan period to ensure adequate funding and support for the implementation of the ABS Strategy.
• Identifying possible competent national authorities and checkpoints, and conducting a training needs assessment to build capacity among stakeholders.
• Conducting stakeholder consultation meetings at various levels to validate the draft ABS Strategy and Action Plan, ensuring a participatory approach throughout the process.
• Finalizing the ABS Strategy and Action Plan based on feedback from stakeholders and submitting it for approval.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in environmental law, sustainable development, natural resources management, international relations, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with seven years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of seven years of experience in environmental law is required, including at least four years of experience in drafting legal instruments related to Multilateral Environmental Agreements and the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol and ABS regimes. A broad understanding of biodiversity conservation and related international frameworks is essential, along with proven expertise in policy formulation and program/project development. Experience in drafting legal instruments in the context of South Sudan or the East African region, particularly in the ABS and environmental sectors, is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as environmental law, sustainable development, natural resources management, or international relations. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by sufficient relevant experience, specifically seven years of qualifying experience in the field of environmental law.

Experience:
The consultant is expected to have a minimum of seven years of professional experience in environmental law, with at least four years specifically focused on drafting legal instruments related to Multilateral Environmental Agreements and the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol and ABS regimes. Experience in the context of South Sudan or the East African region is preferred, particularly in areas related to ABS and environmental governance.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN, but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of three months. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing Programme Management Officer within UNEP's Law Division. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Additionally, the UN does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.