International Consultant - Sustainable Budgeting Approach (SBA)

Organizational Context

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is a global leader in environmental issues, coordinating policy and action. Its Industry and Economy Division supports governments in developing sustainable policies. The Economics and Fiscal Policy Unit (EFPU) specifically focuses on aligning fiscal frameworks with sustainable development goals, operationalizing the Sustainable Budgeting Approach (SBA). This role contributes to the UN Joint Programme on Green and Climate Finance in Lao PDR.

Job Purpose

This role supports the UN Environment Programme's (UNEP) Economics and Fiscal Policy Unit (EFPU) in scaling the Sustainable Budgeting Approach (SBA) methodology. The purpose is to adapt and apply the SBA to the fiscal, economic, and policy context of Lao PDR, fostering a triple-lens approach (economic, social, environmental) to national budgeting. The consultant will develop an AI-assisted application tool and conduct capacity-building workshops, aiming to strengthen national fiscal frameworks for durable and inclusive growth. The work contributes to informing broader SBA program development and its application in other partner countries, ensuring methodological refinements and country evidence are documented.

Responsibilities

The consultant will calibrate the Sustainable Budgeting Approach (SBA) taxonomy and assessment criteria to the specific context of Lao PDR, utilizing national documents and financial data. Responsibilities include convening a local expert panel to refine SBA criteria, producing key project documents such as an inception report and workplan, and developing an AI-assisted SBA application tool with supporting documentation. The role also involves designing and delivering a capacity-strengthening workshop for the Ministry of Finance and coordinating with other consultants to ensure consistency in fiscal policy recommendations. Bi-weekly progress updates and a handover of project inputs are also required.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience is required, working with Ministries of Finance, national planning agencies, or international financial institutions on public financial management, fiscal policy reform, or budgeting. Experience in emerging and developing economies, particularly in Asia, Africa, or Latin America, is essential. Demonstrated experience applying green/sustainable budgeting frameworks or similar triple-lens fiscal assessment methodologies to national budgets is also required.

Skills

Strong analytical and quantitative skills; ability to interpret budget data and translate findings into policy options; experience designing and delivering capacity-building activities for senior government officials; proven ability to transfer methodologies; track record of developing methodological tools or case studies; familiarity with Artificial Intelligence assisted analytical tools.

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