Research & VNR Consultation Specialist
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) supports governments and migrants, addressing evolving migration challenges within the UN System in Sri Lanka. This UN Volunteer assignment, seconded to the Sustainable Development Council (SDC), supports the Government of Sri Lanka's Voluntary National Review (VNR) process. The SDC is the lead institution for coordinating and monitoring the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Sri Lanka, aiming to strengthen national coordination, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based SDG progress assessment.
Job Purpose
This UN Volunteer assignment supports the Government of Sri Lanka's Voluntary National Review (VNR) for 2027, working with the Sustainable Development Council (SDC) under the UN Country Team's coordination. The role is crucial for enhancing national coordination, engaging stakeholders, and improving data collection, analysis, and reporting for an inclusive and evidence-based assessment of progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Volunteer will facilitate consultations, gather evidence, document inputs, and support the drafting of the VNR report, including technical and coordination support for the Uva Province Voluntary Subnational Review (VSR).
Responsibilities
Under the guidance of IOM and direct supervision of the SDC Director General (Acting)/CEO, the UN Volunteer will support the planning and execution of VNR thematic and provincial consultations, focus group discussions, and stakeholder meetings. Key duties include documenting discussions, findings, and recommendations; preparing minutes and summaries; conducting desk research to compile secondary data and evidence for the VNR Report; and organizing consultation records. The role involves providing documented findings and research inputs for the VNR technical writing and analysis process, supporting the preparation of the VNR zero draft, and coordinating/documenting the Uva Province VSR process. This includes assisting with VSR stakeholder consultations, compiling data and evidence, and preparing related documentation, alongside other research, documentation, and coordination tasks as required.
Work Experience
A minimum of 3 years of experience is required, with 4 years of relevant experience preferred. Experience in project/programme coordination or implementation support is an asset, as is prior work within the UN or international development organizations. Strong research and analytical skills are essential for data collection, analysis, and synthesis to support the VNR report. Experience with consultation processes, SDG-related work, or stakeholder engagement is advantageous.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organizing, professionalism, self-management, and integrity. Essential technical skills involve research and analytical capabilities, IT proficiency, and effective communication. Expertise in areas such as advocacy, public information, community development, knowledge management, and reporting is also valuable for this role.