Organization Mission

The 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 UNEP Reginal Office for West Asia is located in Beirut, Lebanon.

Context

This UNV assignment is part of the UN Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Regional Office for West Asia projects supporting Qatar in preparing its Initial Biennial Transparency Report (BTR1) and minor support for Qatar SNC (BUR).

Project Description: The projects aim to enhance climate change awareness and knowledge in Qatar, directly assisting in national planning and policy formulation by mainstreaming vulnerability, adaptation, and mitigation measures. Key stakeholders include the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, governmental agencies, and research institutions. Expected outcomes are enhanced national capacity for climate change reporting and transparency, improved integration of climate considerations into development plans, and increased stakeholder understanding of climate impacts and mitigation. Ultimately, these reports will contribute to Qatar”s social and economic development by reducing climate vulnerabilities, providing mitigation options in key sectors, and strengthening emissions reduction tracking towards its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Key Responsibilities

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the Regional Coordinator for Climate Action or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV Programme Associate will:

• Compile and assess information related to averting, minimizing, and addressing loss and damage associated with climate change impacts.
• Document adaptation strategies, policies, plans, goals and actions to integrate adaptation into national policies and strategies.
• Compile information on cooperation, good practices, experience and lessons learned in adaptation actions and processes.
• Provide technical and logistical support for project activities, including preparation of material for workshops, meetings, and training sessions
• Conduct targeted research to support in the preparation of the adaptation chapter with the BTR

Required Skills and Experience

One month experience at the national and/or regional level, in environmental policy analysis, national development planning, or stakeholder engagement, or other relevant programmes; experience with climate change mainstreaming is an asset, as is experience working in the UN or other international development organization;

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, Environmental Management, Climate Change Studies, Environmental Economics, or any related field. Master’s degree is an Asset.
• Strong understanding of climate change concepts, including adaptation, mitigation, loss and damage, climate finance, climate justice, and climate resilience.
• Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills.
• Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including authorities at different levels.
• Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel.
• Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment.
• Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines.
• Have affinity with or interest in climate change policy [fill in relevant area of the host agency’s work], volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN System.

Core Competencies

• Accountability
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Creativity
• Judgement and decision-making
• Planning and organising
• Professionalism
• Self-management

Living Conditions

As this is a national UN Volunteer assignment, the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials. This position is based in UN house, Beirut, Lebanon. National UN Volunteers are part of the malicious insurance plan. National UN Volunteers are expected to be culturally sensitive and adjust to the prevailing culture and traditions.

Benefits Package:
• Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) at the amount of USD 1,285.25
• Annual and learning leaves
• Medical and life Insurance
• Free access to different learning platforms.
For more information on UN Volunteer benefits, entitlements and support, please visit: https://www.unv.org/volunteer-your-country-conditions-service