Copy Edit Support for Flagship Social Development Report

Organizational Context

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) promotes sustainable and inclusive development and regional connectivity. As a regional development arm, ESCAP provides policy-oriented research, analysis, normative support, and technical assistance to its member states. The Social Outlook is a biennial flagship publication focusing on social development issues across the region, aiming to inspire action towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1 (No Poverty).

Job Purpose

This role supports the copy editing of ESCAP's flagship publication, the "Social Outlook for Asia and the Pacific: Eradicating Poverty, Empowering People." The assignment aims to ensure the report, covering poverty trends, drivers, and policy approaches, is clear, coherent, and engaging. The volunteer will contribute to harmonizing writing styles, ensuring technical accuracy, and finalizing the report for its November 2026 launch. The ultimate goal is to inspire member states to accelerate action on poverty eradication and empower people across the region.

Responsibilities

The Online Volunteer will copy edit a report draft of approximately 80 pages, including charts and text boxes, to produce a clear, coherent, and engaging narrative. Key duties include harmonizing writing styles across chapters for consistency in tone, terminology, structure, and presentation. The volunteer will review and edit for grammar, syntax, clarity, readability, and overall flow, while preserving technical accuracy and analytical integrity. Responsibilities also involve revising and finalizing the report based on feedback from authors and the Editorial Board, drafting an executive summary, and attending bi-weekly virtual meetings. Guidance on the target audience and editorial guidelines will be provided.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of demonstrated professional experience in copy editing, substantive editing, or proofreading high-level publications, reports, or policy documents is required. Familiarity with social development, poverty reduction, or public policy terminology is desirable, as is previous experience editing for UN entities or international organizations.

Skills

Excellent command of written English, including strong editing, formatting, and proofreading skills. Ability to harmonize writing styles and ensure consistency in tone and terminology. Familiarity with social development and public policy terminology is an asset. Ability to work collaboratively with multicultural teams and incorporate feedback within tight timelines is desirable. Knowledge of UN Editorial Guidelines is also desirable.

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