National Consultant for Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS) Gap Analysis and Functional Mapping

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is the UN system's focal point for coordinating disaster risk reduction efforts and ensuring synergies among related activities. It guides, monitors, and reports on the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, supporting global and national implementation. This consultancy is part of an initiative to strengthen disaster risk reduction and early warning systems in the Western Balkans, with a focus on Serbia.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to strengthen national capacities for early warning systems in Serbia, aligning with the 'Early Warnings for All' (EW4ALL) initiative. The role involves conducting a comprehensive gap analysis of existing early warning systems, developing a national roadmap with prioritized actions, and facilitating stakeholder engagement. The ultimate goal is to enhance Serbia's preparedness and response to climate-induced and natural hazards, ensuring the protection of lives and livelihoods through improved coordination, clear policy guidelines, and an adopted action plan. The consultant will work under the supervision of UNDRR and in collaboration with various UN agencies and national institutions.

Responsibilities

The consultant will conduct a desk review of relevant national documents and existing early warning system assessments. They will establish and maintain a coordination mechanism among UNDRR, WMO, ITU, IFRC, UNDP, and Serbian national institutions for the EW4ALL initiative. A key responsibility is to support a gap assessment for all four EW4ALL pillars, adapting standardized tools for the local context. This involves data collection through interviews and consultations, leading to a gap assessment report with recommendations. The consultant will then prepare a costed, sequenced national roadmap, defining priority actions, institutional roles, and implementation pathways. Finally, they will facilitate national workshops to validate the gap analysis and roadmap, finalize the document based on feedback, and develop workshop materials.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, or climate resilience is required, with demonstrated ability to work across sectors and institutions. Proven experience coordinating with or supporting UN agencies, government ministries, and national technical institutions in DRR or early warning is essential. Experience in developing roadmaps, conducting institutional gap analyses, and facilitating high-level consultations or workshops is desirable.

Skills

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Early Warning Systems (EWS), Climate Resilience, Stakeholder Coordination, Gap Analysis, Roadmap Development, Workshop Facilitation, Project Management, Policy Analysis, Report Writing, Communication.

Explore related opportunities