Consultancy on Macroeconomic Performance and Policy Frameworks in the Arab Region
Organizational Context
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), part of the UN Secretariat, seeks a consultant to analyze macroeconomic performance and policy frameworks in the Arab Region. This role contributes to ESCWA's mandate of promoting sustainable economic transformation and shared prosperity by addressing regional economic integration challenges.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this consultancy is to prepare a comprehensive analytical paper on Macroeconomic Performance and Policy Frameworks in the Arab Region. The paper will assess the interplay between access to markets and productive resources with key macroeconomic and structural outcomes. It will identify factors that constrain these relationships and develop a robust policy framework to enhance economic performance across the Arab region. This involves developing conceptual and methodological frameworks, conducting empirical assessments, analyzing constraints, and formulating policy recommendations to foster productivity, diversification, resilience, and sustainable economic transformation.
Responsibilities
The consultant will develop a conceptual and methodological framework to analyze how access to markets, capital, labor, energy, technology, and knowledge influence macroeconomic and structural performance in Arab countries. This includes examining datasets, identifying trends, and empirically assessing their relationship with productivity, investment, diversification, private-sector development, employment, incomes, and economic convergence. The consultant will also assess key macroeconomic and structural constraints, such as instability, debt, fragmented markets, and geopolitical uncertainty. Finally, the consultant will develop a policy framework covering relevant macroeconomic, trade, investment, industrial, financial, labor, technological, and institutional policies, and prepare a final analytical paper with evidence and recommendations.
Work Experience
A minimum of 15 years of professional work experience in research on regional development issues is required. Experience undertaking high-level initiatives from international organizations and demonstrated quantitative analysis and interpretation skills are desirable.
Skills
Conceptual and methodological framework development, empirical assessment and analysis, quantitative analysis and interpretation, research on regional development, macroeconomic analysis, policy framework development, strong written and verbal communication skills in English.