Result of ServiceThe objective of this consultancy assignment is to support the development of a basin-wide strategy and framework for the mountains of Nepal that connects upstream-downstream linkages, addresses climate change impacts and vulnerabilities in Nepal, and considers water resources, ecosystems, and ecosystem services in a holistic manner to foster climate-resilient development in the country. Work LocationNepal Expected duration3 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe 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. The mountain ecosystem of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) is exceptionally rich and is often referred to as the \"Third Pole\" due to its vast biodiversity and extensive glaciers. While various projects and initiatives aim to address mountain-related issues in the HKH region, these efforts are often fragmented and lack coordination. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Resident Coordinator (RC) of Nepal, taking direction from the SG’s call for the UN system to assist nation state members of the UN to respond to the Triple Planetary Crisis of Climate Change, Biodiversity loss and Pollution, have proposed establishing a multi-stakeholder mountain landscape initiative in Nepal. UNEP conducted a mission from December 8–12, 2024, to discuss this idea with key stakeholders, including relevant government ministries, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, ICIMOD, and other non-governmental actors. The key ministries of the Government of Nepal are highly supportive of establishing a multi-stakeholder landscape initiative. UN agencies also back the idea of developing a holistic ecosystem-based framework focused on mountain-related issues and have suggested several key elements to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative. Almost all stakeholders recognize the importance of a basin-wide strategy and framework that connects upstream-downstream linkages and addresses flood control, water resource management, and ecosystem services in an integrated manner. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Resident Coordinator (RC) of Nepal have held further discussions and agreed to hire a senior technical expert to advance work toward establishing the multi-stakeholder mountain landscape initiative in Nepal. The Resident Coordinator will provide overall strategic guidance, while the Senior Regional Advisor (SRA) for Climate and Environment at UNEP Asia and the Pacific will offer policy and technical guidance. Qualifications/special skillsAn advanced degree in Development Studies, Environment, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Sustainability, or in the related field. Bachelor’s degree with 2 additional years of work experience in the relevant fields may be accepted in lieu of the advance degree. - A minimum of 10 years of work experience in the areas of environment, climate change, biodiversity in Asia and the Pacific is required. - Experience in engaging with senior and decision-making levels of government, UN system, private sector and civil society organizations are required. - Experience in high-level strategic analysis and developing integrated policy and programmes across the environmental agenda (i.e., biodiversity, climate change, water, adaptation) as well as across broader the sustainable development agenda is required. - Experience supporting multi-stakeholder partnerships on climate change/biodiversity and sustainable development is desirable. - Experience working with international financial institutions and private finance on climate and environmental issues and experience in UN system is desirable. - Strong Knowledge of the socio-economic development, politics, and environmental challenges of Nepal. - Knowledge of the Rio conventions, other global, regional and bilateral environmental agreements, and their associated processes. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of Nepali will be an advantage. Additional InformationNot available. 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.