ETIS Assessment Consultant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The CITES Secretariat, administered by UNEP, aims to ensure international trade in wild fauna and flora does not threaten species survival. This role supports the implementation of CITES Resolution Conf. 10.10 (Rev. CoP20) concerning elephant trade.

Job Purpose

This consultancy focuses on conducting a comprehensive feasibility assessment for the Elephant Trade Information System (ETIS). The purpose is to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of alternative supporting mechanisms for ETIS, comparing potential institutional structures within the UN system (like UNODC or the CITES Secretariat) and other intergovernmental organizations against the current TRAFFIC-managed system. The role will produce detailed reports on ETIS requirements, comparative analysis of institutional options, and recommendations for the most feasible choices to ensure the continued effective monitoring of global elephant specimen trade.

Responsibilities

The consultant will map the operational, technical, analytical, governance, and resource requirements for the ETIS programme, distinguishing core mandated functions. They will identify and evaluate existing institutional mechanisms within the UN and intergovernmental organizations as potential alternative supporting structures for ETIS. This includes conducting a comparative analysis of these options against ETIS requirements, assessing feasibility, and identifying any gaps that could be addressed through capacity-building or partnerships. The consultant will develop a comparative matrix of viable institutional options and provide recommendations on the most feasible choices, detailing how each institution addresses ETIS's mandated functions and key considerations.

Work Experience

Requires at least 10 years of progressive work experience in institutional assessment or governance reviews. In-depth knowledge of CITES, particularly regarding elephant specimen trade and Resolution Conf. 10.10 (Rev. CoP20), is essential. Experience with international organizations and report preparation is desirable.

Skills

Institutional assessment, governance reviews, CITES knowledge, elephant specimen trade expertise, Resolution Conf. 10.10 (Rev. CoP20) implementation, comparative analysis, report writing, presentation skills, working with international organizations.

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