National Expert on Gender Equality and Climate Change

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment globally. The organization is dedicated to eliminating discrimination against women and girls, empowering women, and achieving equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. UN Women operates in multiple countries, focusing on various issues including climate change, where it advocates for gender-responsive policies and promotes women's leadership and participation in climate action. The organization is committed to addressing the inequalities related to climate change, particularly in regions like Albania, where women face unique challenges due to their roles in agriculture and caregiving. UN Women aims to integrate gender considerations into climate policies and actions, ensuring that climate responses are inclusive and effective.

Job Overview:
The position of National Expert on Gender Equality and Climate Change involves conducting a comprehensive data collection and assessment initiative focused on the intersection of gender equality and climate change in Albania. The expert will work closely with an international consultant to develop a joint methodology for data collection, which will include both qualitative and quantitative research methods such as surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The role requires a deep understanding of the gendered impacts of climate change, particularly how these issues affect women and girls in Albania, especially in rural areas. The expert will also be responsible for reviewing existing literature and best practices, engaging with stakeholders, and developing a contextual analysis that reflects the unique vulnerabilities faced by women in the context of climate change. The ultimate goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for integrating gender perspectives into climate change policies and programs in Albania.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Propose a joint methodology for the data collection initiative, utilizing a mixed-method approach that combines qualitative and quantitative research.
• Conduct a review of existing literature, guidelines, and best practices related to gender and climate change, particularly from EU Member States and Western Balkan countries.
• Develop a contextual analysis and stakeholder engagement plan that includes government institutions, civil society organizations, and academia.
• Support the development of a comprehensive outline and content structure for the assessment.
• Create a data collection plan and methodology, including tools and sampling approaches, while ensuring data privacy considerations are met.
• Implement the data collection initiative in collaboration with the international consultant, including case studies and practical tools for gender mainstreaming in climate change.
• Prepare visual materials to present the findings of the assessment.
• Conduct a multi-sectoral analysis of gender equality and climate change in Albania, assessing existing policy frameworks and the representation of women in decision-making roles.
• Provide an evidence-based assessment of how women and girls are affected by climate change, particularly in rural areas. 1
• Develop a set of recommendations for creating inclusive climate change policies, targeting policymakers, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environment or climate change studies, international development, human rights, gender/women's studies, economics, green economy, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of prior experience in data collection initiatives, including developing and implementing data collection tools in the area of gender equality and women’s empowerment, particularly related to climate change.
• Proven experience in researching and writing about climate change and its impacts, ideally within the Albanian context.
• Proficient knowledge of gender equality and climate change issues, as well as familiarity with national and international frameworks on these topics.
• Strong skills in report writing and data analysis, with a demonstrated ability to summarize research findings and recommendations effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields related to environment or climate change studies, international development, human rights, gender/women's studies, economics, green economy, or similar disciplines. This educational background is essential to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues at the intersection of gender and climate change.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in data collection initiatives, particularly in the context of gender equality and women's empowerment. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience specifically related to gender equality and climate change adaptation or mitigation, as well as experience in researching and writing about climate change impacts, ideally in Albania. This level of experience is crucial for effectively addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls in the context of climate change.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Albanian is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, conducting interviews, and preparing reports and assessments that will be utilized in policy-making processes.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is home-based with the possibility of in-country travel as needed. The position is expected to contribute to the UN Women Strategic Note (SN 2022-2026) and support the implementation of various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to gender equality and climate action. The deliverables include a proposed methodology, a comprehensive review of literature, stakeholder mapping, tailored data collection tools, and a final assessment report with concrete recommendations. The expected completion timeline for various deliverables ranges from mid-June 2025 to the end of November 2025.