Consultant on Climate Action

Organizational setting and reporting relationships: The consultant will work in the International Development Programme of the Division of Programmes of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). In performing his or her duties, the consultant will report to the Programme Manager for International Development.

Accountabilities: Within delegated authority, the consultant will be responsible for the following:
• Support the IPU’s preparations for the the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), including the Parliamentary Meeting at the COP and side events.
• Carry out research and support the preparation and finalization of IPU publications in the area of climate change, particularly on Nationally-Determined Contributions (NDCs), climate finance, mitigation and adaptation.
• Provide assistance in the preparation of virtual climate-related events, including on climate finance and regional dialogues on climate action.
• Support the implementation of the IPU campaign on climate change.
• Support the development and implementation of national capacity-building activities for parliaments on climate change.
• Provide, as requested, other assistance in areas relevant to the IPU’s work on international development.

Key deliverables:
• Preparations for the Parliamentary Meeting at COP29 and other relevant side events are supported.
• A publication for parliaments on strengthening NDCs in relation to climate finance, mitigation and adaptation is finalized and published.
• Virtual events are organized to promote the IPU’s work on climate change, including on climate finance and on regional climate dialogues.
• Internal guidance and coordination support is provided to IPU colleagues in the area of climate change.
• At least one national capacity-building activity on climate change is organized.
• Support is provided to IPU officials in terms of speeches, briefings and notes for the file, and support is provided to the climate change campaign as required.
• Reports on the implementation of the activities are prepared and submitted to IPU governing bodies and donors.

Work implies frequent interaction with the following:
• Parliamentarians, Secretaries General/Clerks of parliament, parliamentary staff.
• United Nations and other partner organization officials.
• Members of the IPU Secretariat.

Competencies:
• Professionalism: Good knowledge of global development issues and expert knowledge of climate issues, including familiarity with high-level climate dialogues and processes. Knowledge of the functioning and structure of national parliaments is desirable, and experience working directly with parliaments is highly preferred.
• Planning and organizing: Demonstrated organizational skills; ability to establish priorities, and to plan and monitor own work plan and meet deadlines. Demonstrated use of initiative in facilitating the production of a complex work product. Personal attributes of self-motivation, tact, sound judgment and a preparedness to accept responsibility.
• Communication: Ability to write and to communicate orally in a clear and concise manner.
• Technological awareness: Advanced knowledge of MS Office; advanced use of the internet.
• Teamwork: Aptitude for human contacts and resourcefulness. Team spirit. Adaptability to varying working environments and conditions.
• Commitment to continuous learning: Willingness to keep abreast of new developments in the relevant fields and to develop own skills.

Requirements:
• University degree in political science, law, international relations, or related fields.
• Good knowledge of project management tools and techniques.
• At least 3 years of proven experience in managing projects in an international environment. Demonstrated ability to achieve expected results and outcomes.
• Demonstrated awareness about key global climate change concepts and their place in international development/SDGs.
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently, and as part of a team.
• Excellent reading, writing and speaking skills in English and a working knowledge of French or Spanish. Additional languages are an asset.
• Work experience with projects involving parliamentarians.

Dates and conditions:
The consultancy will run from 25 September to 22 December 2024 for 65 working days. Subject to performance and the availability of funds, the consultancy may be extended. The consultant can be based at the IPU Headquarters in Geneva or home-based.

Applications:
Candidates should provide the following:
• Curriculum vitae.
• A brief description of why they are the right person for this consultancy, including details of their personal contribution to at least two relevant projects.
• Information about their availability to begin work.
• Expected daily fee.