Consultant (Culture - Underwater Heritage)

Organizational Context

The Unit on Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH) at UNESCO is dedicated to ensuring the effective implementation of the 2001 Convention for the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage. This involves managing and advancing related programmes to safeguard submerged cultural assets globally.

Job Purpose

This consultancy role focuses on acting as a scientific focal point and underwater archaeology expert for the 2001 Convention. The incumbent will contribute to the Convention's visibility within the academic community by participating in key international conferences. Responsibilities include coordinating cooperation projects, developing educational components, and assessing activities related to underwater archaeological missions. A significant aspect involves integrating marine and underwater cultural heritage into climate action and resilience strategies, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, and developing tangible projects to address climate change impacts on heritage. The role also supports the organization of key meetings and anniversary events for the Convention.

Responsibilities

Serve as a scientific focal point and underwater archaeology expert for the 2001 Convention, enhancing its academic visibility through conference participation. Implement activities for the Convention's Secretariat, focusing on South Asia and East Asia regions in coordination with Field Offices. Coordinate a cooperation mechanism project for underwater cultural heritage protection in the Baltic Sea, organizing meetings and leading stakeholder consultations. Contribute to drafting a global project for vulnerable UCH in the Baltic Sea, including scientific study, protection, education, capacity building, and communication. Identify fundraising and communication partners, and draft budgets. Develop the educational component in liaison with relevant sectors and networks. Assess and develop activities for international underwater archaeological missions. Integrate marine and underwater cultural heritage into climate action and resilience strategies, fostering synergies among Culture Conventions and developing pilot projects. Assess research on heritage facing climate change threats, support drafting of relevant documents, and implement projects on climate change impacts. Support the organization of workshops, meetings, and conferences. Promote marine and underwater cultural heritage within ocean frameworks and policies. Support the organization of STAB and MSP meetings, as well as events for the Convention's anniversary and the International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of professional experience in the culture sector, with at least five years in international cultural policies, is necessary. Experience within the United Nations system, organizing global multi-stakeholder consultations, and specific expertise in the study, protection, conservation, and awareness-raising of underwater cultural heritage are essential.

Skills

Proficiency in the UN 2030 Agenda and UN System. Strong knowledge of UNESCO culture instruments, particularly the 2001 Convention. Expertise in coordinating global consultations and managing multi-stakeholder engagement. Proven skills in underwater archaeology and heritage protection. Experience in coordinating multilateral projects and events. Ability to synthesize information, handle GIS data, and interact effectively with diverse partners. Strong IT skills and ability to work in multicultural environments.

Explore related opportunities