Specialist on Research and Advocacy

1. Support logistics and reporting for follow-up and review activities a. Support logistics and documenting VNR workshops and sessions b. Develop meeting reports and document workshop and activity outputs, support monitoring and evaluation c. Develop and update tracking mechanism of good practices in VNRs d. Review/provide inputs on VNR drafts, requests for assistance 2. Develop VNR background document for 14th APFSD a. Draft in collaboration with relevant divisions citing VNR country examples b. Respond to feedback from colleagues and senior management to finalize document by end of November 2026 3. Coordinate the 2026 VNR Twinning and Peer Learning Programme a. develop TORs for twinning arrangement among countries engaged b. moderate the online space of the VNR twinning, c. coordinate study tour as requested and document activities 4. Liaise internally and with partners, Resident Coordinators Offices and VNR focal points to deliver on country requests for VNR assistance a. Organize and follow-up on communications and meetings b. Support planning, delivery and reporting of VNR technical assistance c. Explore, clarify and enhance VNR support partnerships with ESCAP Divisions, UN agencies and partner organisations 5. Focal point for coordinating logistics, partnerships and communications for APFSD Associated events including VNR events a. Document events, lessons learned and proposals for the next cycle b. Liaise with CMU and partners for room allocation, logistics, catering and on-site set up needs c. Ensure regular updates to APFSD webpage on associated events d. Prepare presentations and updates to management on the exhibition and incorporate feedback 6. Support the team with organizational, communications, research and preparatory processes, projects and tasks as needed AMENDMENT: 2. Develop VNR background document for 14th APFSD c. Final draft completed in December 2026 and February 2027 VNR session outline based on the document 3. Coordinate the 2026 VNR Twinning and Peer Learning Programme d. Support continued peer learning activities from December to March 2027 4. Liaise internally and with partners, Resident Coordinators Offices and VNR focal points to deliver on country requests for VNR assistance d. Continue VNR liaison support for multiple 2027 VNR countries based on country requests 5. Focal point for coordinating logistics, partnerships and communications for APFSD Associated events including VNR events e. Coordinate Associated events in February 2027 7. Support SDG Factsheets and Round Table preparation with UN and ESCAP focal points

Bangkok

1 Aug -31 Mar 2027

ESCAP is supporting member states in various aspects of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, including by organizing and hosting the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD). The Forum provides a regional perspective on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda by identifying regional trends and consolidating and sharing best practices and lessons learned. The APFSD also supports follow-up and review (FUR) of progress on the 2030 Agenda at the regional level. The fourteenth APFSD will take place during 23-26 of February 2027. Voluntary national reviews (VNR) are a key component of the follow-up and review mechanism for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. National reviews form the basis for the in-depth global reviews at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF). VNRs provide an opportunity to share experiences, including challenges, best practices and lessons learnt, and facilitate acceleration in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Countries have requested ESCAP’s support in VNR development and peer learning. OBJECTIVE: Under the overall supervision of the Sustainable Development Officer, the individual contractor will provide support for follow-up and review activities including VNR workshops, technical assistance and country support logistics. This also includes planning, preparation and support for APFSD events including VNR session and events. Support is required for preparation of the APFSD exhibition and associated events including VNR events and partner engagement. The appropriate consultant should have sound research, organization and partnership skills, and experience in supporting UN events.

Subjects related to public policy, international relations, environmental management or social sciences. Good analytical, organization, coordination and drafting skills, ability to present information clearly. Great English speaking and writing skills. Experience in supporting international events, analysis, publications, partnerships, including research assistance, and outreach.

Fluent in English

Not available.

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.