Consultant - Regional/Subregional Cross-Border Cooperation and Policy Recommendations - National Agenda for the Future of Syria

Organizational Context

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) seeks a consultant to support the National Agenda for the Future of Syria (NAFS) program. This role contributes to a Subregional Dialogue Platform aimed at fostering coordinated policy dialogue, regional stability, and economic benefits through enhanced connectivity and resilience.

Job Purpose

The consultant will produce a background paper to launch a Subregional Dialogue Platform, crucial for initiating a structured, trust-building process. This initiative supports coordinated policy dialogue, regional stability, and mutual economic benefits among Syria and its neighboring Arab countries. The paper will analyze current cross-border challenges, identify opportunities for enhanced engagement, and develop actionable policy recommendations. The ultimate goal is to strengthen connectivity, enhance resilience, promote economic recovery and reconstruction, and advance sustainable development across the sub-region, leveraging the positive economic spillovers identified by ESCWA's NAFS program.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibility is to draft an analytical assessment report detailing key cross-border and transboundary issues affecting Syria and its neighboring Arab countries. This report will serve as a foundational document for a Subregional Dialogue Platform. The consultant will also be responsible for presenting a summary of the report as needed. The work involves analyzing the current landscape of regional cooperation, identifying opportunities for enhanced engagement, and developing actionable policy recommendations to guide future regional and subregional interactions. This contributes to ESCWA's objective of promoting regional stability and economic benefits through coordinated policy dialogue and strengthened connectivity.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of experience in policy analysis, research, or advisory work related to regional cooperation, economic development, post-conflict recovery, or cross-border/transboundary issues is required. Proven knowledge of regional and sub-regional dynamics in the Arab region, including cross-border challenges, regional interdependencies, and cooperation frameworks is also necessary. Experience with UN agencies or international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Strong analytical, drafting, and writing skills. Ability to present complex technical issues clearly and concisely. Proven knowledge of regional and sub-regional dynamics in the Arab region. Experience in policy analysis, research, or advisory work related to regional cooperation, economic development, post-conflict recovery, or cross-border/transboundary issues.

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