The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the world's 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 environment.
This consultancy role involves working closely with the global SIDS Flagship team, national government, and national stakeholders in Vanuatu to advance a sustainable blue economy (SBE). The specialist will utilize the UNEP Sustainable Blue Economy Transition Framework and related Rapid Readiness Assessment tools to analyze frameworks, assess institutional capacities, and propose strategic recommendations for SBE governance.
Scope of Work
- Analyze relevant legislative and policy frameworks related to a sustainable blue economy in Vanuatu.
- Assess institutional capacities, infrastructures, and cross-sectoral coordination systems.
- Compile and assess existing data on marine and coastal ecosystem services and resource management, social and economic features, etc.
- Identify key economic sectors, challenges, and opportunities to advance a sustainable blue economy in Vanuatu.
- Propose strategic recommendations to strengthen SBE governance, including application of area-based management framework and tools (e.g., ICZM, IWRM, Land-Sea Planning, marine spatial planning).
- Organize inclusive multi-stakeholder consultations, in collaboration with the National Team, to ensure ownership of the process.
- Compile and review existing national frameworks, policies, strategies, and financing plans relevant to sustainable blue economy in terms of the ability to support a sustainable blue economy transition.
- In close consultation with the Government of Vanuatu and relevant stakeholders, prepare an integrated SBE strategic action plan and associated theory of change to support the sustainable blue economy transition.
Qualifications and Special Skills
- Education: Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in marine sciences, environmental economics, natural resource management, coastal development, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
- Experience: A minimum of 7 years of experience in designing sustainable blue economy strategy and policy, marine resource management, integrated coastal zone management (ICZM), or marine spatial planning protocols and guidelines is required.
- Regional Knowledge: Experience working in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), preferably in the Pacific region, is required.
- Communication: Excellent writing, communication, and presentation skills preferably with proven experience working in subjects related to Sustainable Blue Economy is required.
- Desirable Attributes: Previous experience conducting similar assignments at regional or global levels; experience conducting assessments and facilitating multi-stakeholder participatory workshops; knowledge of international policy frameworks and SDGs, particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the United Nations careers portal at careers.un.org. You can access the application link via the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) application page.
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