Asia Pacific REDD+ Safeguards Expert

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) seeks a REDD+ Safeguards Expert based in Bangkok, Thailand, for a 6-month consultancy. This role supports six Asia Pacific countries in strengthening their REDD+ safeguards processes, aligning with the UN-REDD Programme's technical assistance mandate. The expert will work regionally and in-country, reporting to UNEP leadership in Bangkok and Geneva.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to provide expert technical assistance on social and environmental safeguards for REDD+ initiatives across six Asia Pacific countries and the wider region. The role involves strengthening national safeguards information systems, ensuring compliance with standards like Cancun REDD+ and ART-TREES, and building capacity among stakeholders. The expert will contribute to the design and delivery of training, support the implementation of safeguards policies, and advise on strategic expansion opportunities for UNEP's regional portfolio. This position is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness and integrity of REDD+ programs, ensuring they are implemented in a socially and environmentally responsible manner, and facilitating knowledge exchange and partnership development within the region.

Responsibilities

The REDD+ Safeguards Expert will provide technical advice for in-country safeguards activities in Bhutan, Nepal, Viet Nam, Lao PDR, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, aligning with UN-REDD workplans. This includes coordinating with UNEP-WCMC, UNEP Safeguards Officer, and the Regional Coordinator to support countries. The role involves organizing country missions, liaising with national experts and partners, and drafting/reviewing technical documents such as ART-TREES reports, benefit-sharing plans, FPIC, and Summary of Information. The expert will advise on strengthening safeguards policies and measures, and provide technical backstopping for national consultants. Additionally, the role supports national and regional coordination on safeguards, contributes to planning and reporting, and assists in organizing regional events. Capacity building is a key responsibility, including designing and delivering training on safeguards and ART-TREES 3.0, and supporting financial intermediaries. The expert will also contribute to the strategic expansion of UN-REDD in the Asia Pacific by identifying resource mobilization opportunities and recommending actions to strengthen safeguards implementation.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of experience in REDD+, forestry, climate mitigation, environmental law, forest policy, or related fields is required. Significant experience in social and environmental safeguards within the context of climate change and forest conservation is essential. Experience with the ART-TREES process and documentation is advantageous, as is prior work in the Asia Pacific region, with international organizations, and understanding of forestry sector laws and human rights policies.

Skills

Strong analytical and research skills; ability to provide evidence-based recommendations; knowledge of report writing and editing; proficiency in Microsoft Office; excellent communication, adaptability, and time management skills; strong teamwork capabilities; expertise in social and environmental safeguards for REDD+; familiarity with ART-TREES process and documentation.

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