International consultancy for development

The leadership of youth is pivotal in holding governments to account to address the impacts of climate change on water resources. Addressing climate change necessitates coordinated governmental action alongside informed efforts by individuals. Hence, it is imperative to enhance both formal and informal education on climate change and sustainable lifestyles. Moreover, there is a need to advocate for sustainable production and consumption practices while empowering youth to serve as environmental advocates in their communities.

From the perspective of youths, water and climate rights hold significant importance as these issues directly impact their present and future well-being. As the inheritors of the planet, young people are increasingly aware of the urgent need to address environmental challenges, including water scarcity, pollution, and climate change. They recognize that their future quality of life depends on how these issues are addressed today.

Child’s right to participate, as enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), is crucial in the context of water and environment. The CRC affirms children’s rights to express their views freely and have those views considered in matters affecting them. In the context of water and climate rights, this means that young people should have a seat at the table when decisions are made about water management, environmental policies, and climate action.

Tajikistan faces significant challenges related to water management and climate change. As a mountainous country, it is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including changes in precipitation patterns, glacial melt, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. Additionally, water scarcity and access to clean water are pressing issues affecting communities across Tajikistan. Recognizing the importance of youth engagement in addressing these challenges, the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources in collaboration with the Committee of Youth and Sport and the Committee of Environment Protection and with technical support of UNICEF seeks to develop the Tajik Youth for Water and Climate Plan with leadership by the Youth for Water and Climate Network.

The Government of Tajikistan demonstrates a strong commitment to emphasizing the significance of water and sanitation for children, youth, and mothers in a changing climate. In alignment with this, UNICEF Tajikistan is dedicated to assisting the government in both the establishment of a youth network focusing on water and climate and preparation of the plan which will be presented at the Youth and Children’s Water Forum planned on the 10 June 2024. Through collaboration with the Government of Tajikistan, UNICEF will play a pivotal role in rallying children and young individuals from Tajikistan providing them with a platform to articulate the profound impact of access to safe WASH on their present lives and future prospects.

The primary objective of this consultancy is to develop a comprehensive Tajik Youth for Water and Climate Plan that engages and empowers youth in addressing water-related challenges and climate change impacts. The plan should:

• Identify key water and climate challenges facing Tajikistan, with a focus on youth perspectives and experiences.
• Outline strategic objectives and actions to address these challenges, leveraging the unique strengths and capacities of youth and in alignment with national plans/priorities and international commitments.
• Propose mechanisms (including governance) for youth engagement, participation, and leadership in water and climate initiatives at local, regional, and national levels.
• Provide recommendations for building youth capacity, raising awareness, and promoting education on water management and climate resilience.
• Establish monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress and impact of youth-led interventions.

Advocate for every child you will have… 

Education:

• University degree in environmental science, water resources management, climate change, international development, environmental management or a related field.

Work experience:

• At least -3-5 years of experience in youth engagement. Previous experience on water and climate is preferable.

Expertise/Skills:

• Demonstrated expertise in youth engagement, participatory planning, and stakeholder consultation processes.
• Proven experience in developing strategic plans, policy documents, or frameworks related to water and climate resilience.
• Familiarity with the context and challenges of Tajikistan, particularly in relation to water management and climate change.
• Strong analytical, communication, and facilitation skills.

Language:

• Excellent proficiency in English (written and oral) while knowledge of Tajik and Russian is an advantage.

Source:https://jobs.unicef.org/cw/en-us/job/571186