Evaluation of Subprogramme 4: Statistics, the Information Society and Technology (2020-2025)

Organizational Context

The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is part of the UN Secretariat. This role is within ESCWA, specifically focusing on Subprogramme 4, which addresses Statistics, the Information Society, and Technology in the Arab region. The subprogramme aims to enhance statistical systems and advance the information society through improved data quality, availability, and use, alongside technology integration for sustainable development.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this role is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Subprogramme 4 (Statistics, the Information Society and Technology) for the period 2020-2025. The evaluation will assess the subprogramme's effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, coherence, impact, and sustainability in strengthening statistical systems and advancing the information society in the Arab region. It aims to determine the extent to which intended results are achieved, identify contributing factors, and uncover any unintended outcomes. The findings will provide a basis for evidence-informed decision-making, strategic planning, and risk management, serving as a means of accountability to member states and informing organizational learning for future ESCWA initiatives.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibility is to conduct a forward-looking evaluation of Subprogramme 4, assessing its performance against key criteria including relevance, coherence, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability. This involves systematically assessing the subprogramme's alignment with ESCWA's strategic framework, regional priorities, and the 2030 Agenda. Key duties include evaluating the integration of cross-cutting issues such as gender equality, human rights, and disability inclusion. The role requires developing and submitting an Inception Report, conducting data collection and analysis, holding debriefing meetings, and producing a Draft and Final Evaluation Report with clear, action-oriented recommendations. The evaluation will also examine the impact of the merger of the Statistics and Technology divisions and assess the utilization of knowledge products and policy recommendations.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of experience conducting assessments, reviews, or evaluations of projects, programmes, or policies within the UN or an international context is required. Experience in statistics and/or information society and technology issues is desirable.

Skills

Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to effectively convey complex information clearly and concisely to governmental and UN audiences; high level of knowledge in distilling, communicating, and reporting findings, recommendations, best practices, and lessons learned.

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