Result of ServiceA high-quality technical discussion paper (approximately 20 pages) detailing cost-effective restoration investment strategies for resilient economies. A strategic framework or narrative that can inform programming, policy design, and donor engagement. Work LocationHome-based Expected duration15 May to 30 Sept. 2025 Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground: Desertification, climate change, and biodiversity loss are among the most pressing global challenges to sustainable development, as recognized during the 1992 Rio Earth Summit. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), established in 1994, is the only legally binding international agreement that connects the environment and development to sustainable land management. The Convention aims to support countries in addressing desertification, land degradation, and drought (DLDD). (www.unccd.int) The Global Mechanism (GM) of the UNCCD is tasked with supporting countries to mobilize financial and technical resources to combat DLDD. In line with this mandate, the GM works to support countries in developing project pipelines, investment frameworks, and enabling conditions for financing land restoration at scale, with a strong focus on innovation, private sector engagement, and market-based solutions. A key focus is the development of strategies and investment frameworks that make a compelling case for land restoration as a cost-effective driver of resilient economies, especially in the face of increasing market shocks. In collaboration with the G20 Land Restoration Initiative, the GM seeks a consultant to prepare a technical discussion paper that examines the economic rationale and strategic value of restoration investments. The paper will build a case for how targeted investments in land restoration can deliver measurable resilience and long-term economic benefits, especially when designed with cost-efficiency and scalability in mind. Duties and Responsibilities: Under the overall guidance of the Managing Director of the Global Mechanism, the consultant’s duties will include but are not limited to: Reviewing economic and policy literature on restoration as a cost-effective tool for building resilience and economic recovery. Identifying and analyze case studies, models, and public-private initiatives that have demonstrated return on investment (ROI), economic resilience, or poverty reduction benefits from land restoration. Exploring fiscal and policy levers that enhance cost-effectiveness of restoration investments (e.g., blended finance, carbon markets, insurance schemes). Developing a structured economic argument linking restoration efforts with reduced risk, improved productivity, and stronger livelihoods. Engaging virtually with relevant stakeholders to validate findings and recommendations. Providing actionable recommendations to scale up restoration investments through public, private, and blended finance channels. The consultant’s work must be accessible to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including policymakers, donors, and private sector actors, with key messages framed in clear, compelling economic terms. Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced degree in economics, finance, environmental policy, or a related field is required. 10 years in applied economic research, sustainable finance or restoration economics is required. Experience in developing technical reports and policy papers is required. Familiarity with public-private finance mechanisms and ecosystem restoration approaches is required. LanguagesExcellent command of English (written and spoken). Knowledge of other UN languages is an asset. Additional InformationOnly individuals who can act as independent, individual economical operators are qualified to apply. Individuals who can provide their services only on account of an institution or enterprise are not eligible under this procedure. Individuals engaged under a consultancy or individual contract will not be considered \"staff members\" under the Staff Regulations and Rules of the United Nations Secretariat and will not be entitled to benefits provided therein (such as leave entitlements and medical insurance coverage). Their conditions of service will be governed by their contract and the General Conditions of Contracts for the Services of Consultants and Individual Contractors. Consultant and individual contractor is responsible for determining tax liabilities and for the payment of any taxes and/or duties, in accordance with local or other applicable laws. The selected candidate will be required to have a laptop or desktop PC (with Windows 10 or newer) or Mac (with the latest MacOS update), as well as a reliable, high-speed internet connection. An Office 365 license will be provided by the UNCCD to enable the candidate to access official emails, SharePoint, OneDrive and other office applications, such as Word and Excel. Further computer requirements: An antivirus application which receives regular updates; Browsers must be a newer version with regular updates enabled; Regular Windows 10 updates should be enabled with Windows laptop or PC. In addition, a mobile phone will be required to enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA) through SMS or the Authenticator App. No FeeTHE 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.