Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through its Indigenous Peoples Unit (PSUI) within the Partnerships and UN Collaboration Division (PSU), is dedicated to ensuring the full implementation of the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). This principle is fundamental to Indigenous Peoples' rights, supporting their participation in decisions affecting their rights, resources, and territories, and is integral to achieving inclusive, rights-based, and sustainable outcomes in all FAO activities. This initiative aims to build a global roster of FPIC experts to support its implementation across FAO projects and programmes.

Job Purpose

The FPIC Specialist will provide crucial technical support for the practical implementation of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) throughout the entire FAO project cycle, from identification to closure. This role involves offering expert advice to FAO, in coordination with the Indigenous Peoples Unit, on applying FPIC in projects that may affect Indigenous Peoples. The specialist will review project documents, environmental and social assessments, and stakeholder engagement plans to ensure FPIC requirements are adequately addressed. Furthermore, they will deliver technical assistance to FAO personnel, government counterparts, implementing partners, and Indigenous Peoples’ organizations on FPIC standards and methodologies, ensuring consistency with international frameworks like UNDRIP and ILO Convention No. 169.

Responsibilities

Selected incumbents will be responsible for delivering FPIC training sessions at various levels (HQ, regional, national), both virtually and in-person. They will support the integration of FPIC into the FAO project cycle, including specific projects like those funded by GEF and GCF, ensuring the inclusion of Indigenous women, youth, elders, and persons with disabilities. The role involves advising on FPIC-related content during project design, review, and implementation, particularly for initiatives focused on Indigenous Peoples or those indirectly affecting them. Responsibilities also include assisting in the development of regional FPIC focal point networks, designing culturally appropriate consultation protocols, supporting participatory dispute resolution, and advising on grievance mechanisms within project contexts.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is required in the application of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) principles and methodologies specifically with Indigenous Peoples. This experience should demonstrate a practical understanding of how FPIC is integrated into development projects and programmes, including engagement with relevant stakeholders and adherence to international standards and frameworks.

Skills

Key skills include demonstrated expertise in the application of FPIC with Indigenous Peoples and relevant organizations, experience in designing and facilitating culturally appropriate FPIC processes, and knowledge of international legal frameworks on Indigenous Peoples’ rights. The ability to support multi-stakeholder dialogue and capacity development is crucial. Experience with FPIC in post-conflict or emergency settings, use of digital/geospatial tools in participatory work, and involvement in policy development are highly desirable. Strong analytical, facilitation, and training skills are essential, along with proven field-based work and understanding of FPIC's legal, cultural, and operational dimensions. At least one additional UN language is a strong asset.

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