Biodiversity Policy and Planning Expert

Result of ServiceAlignment of the NBSAPs in the Wider Caribbean Region with the GBF, the Cartagena Convention and the SPAW Protocol, by assessing their current status and strengthening national stakeholders' capacities in integrating ecosystem-based approaches and harmonizing environmental reporting. Work LocationHome-based Expected duration3.75 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the United Nations entity designated to address environmental issues at global and regional levels. Its mandate includes coordinating the development of a global environmental consensus by continuously reviewing environmental conditions, identifying emerging challenges, and bringing them to the attention of governments and the international community for action. Recognizing the importance and vulnerability of the Wider Caribbean Region’s (WCR) coastal and marine ecosystems, including endemic species and critical habitats, UNEP established the Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP) as part of its Regional Seas Programme. This led to the adoption of the Action Plan for the Caribbean Environment Programme in 1981 and the subsequent development and adoption of the Cartagena Convention for the Protection and Development of the Wider Caribbean Region on March 24, 1983. The Convention, which entered into force in 1986, serves as the only legally binding regional agreement dedicated to protecting and preserving the Caribbean Sea’s marine environment by promoting cooperation among the countries of the Wider Caribbean. The Cartagena Convention Secretariat (CCS) facilitates communication and collaboration among Contracting Parties and CEP member countries by organizing meetings, providing technical assistance, and coordinating efforts to address environmental challenges in the region. The Secretariat also supports the implementation of the Convention’s three protocols: 1. The Oil Spills Protocol (1983): Focuses on the prevention, control, and reduction of oil spill incidents. 2. The Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) Protocol (1990): Focuses on protecting endangered and threatened marine and coastal species and their habitats. 3. The Land-Based Sources of Marine Pollution (LBS) Protocol (1999): Aims to reduce pollution from land-based activities, including sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial discharges. At its 16th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP), the Cartagena Convention adopted Decision XII on \"Collaboration with Global MEAs\", which requests the Secretariat to explore opportunities for collaboration between the Cartagena Convention and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The Secretariat was also tasked with advising Contracting Parties on how aligning with the GBF could support the implementation of the Cartagena Convention and its protocols. In this context, and in compliance with the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Member States have developed National Biodiversity Strategies and Environmental Action Plans (NBSAPs) to guide the implementation of international and regional commitments. However, it is necessary to assess the current status of these instruments, their alignment with the Kunming-Montreal GBF, and their ability to meet reporting requirements under the Cartagena Convention and the SPAW Protocol. This consultancy aims to strengthen technical capacities in the Wider Caribbean Region by: • Assessing the alignment of NBSAPs with the GBF, the Cartagena Convention and the SPAW Protocol. • Enhancing ecosystem-based management approaches in the WCR counties. • Harmonizing reporting requirements under the Cartagena Convention, the SPAW Protocol, and the GBF. • Supporting at least one country in updating their NBSAPs, incorporating the findings and recommendations from the assessment. The consultant will report to Ms. Susana Perera Valderrama, SPAW Programme Officer of the Cartagena Convention Secretariat. Qualifications/special skillsA Bachelor’s degree in organizational planning, environmental management, or international development is required. A Master’s degree in a similar subject area would be desirable. At least 5 years of experience in change management, strategic planning and/or partnership development, preferably in the environment, ocean governance, or related areas. Knowledge of the Cartagena Convention and the Wider Caribbean region's environmental context is highly desirable. Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities. Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation frameworks and methodologies. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. LanguagesProficiency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of Spanish is desirable. Knowledge of French is desirable. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.