International Consultant as Strategic Foresight Adviser for the development of the 2027-2031 Lao PDR- UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework

Result of ServicePreparatory materials for foresighting and scenario analysis workshop (Concept note/Agenda/Presentation material): Preparation of agenda and workshop materials, including presentations and speaking notes as required (2 days, August 2025). Delivery of Strategic Foresighting workshop (Workshop materials and records): Facilitation of the strategic foresight exercise and scenario analysis, with relevant recording and documentation of discussion as appropriate (2 days, August 2025). Deep-dive session with the UNCT (Presentation): Presentation of key findings (1 day, August 2025). Final Foresight Report (1 day, September 2025). Work LocationVientiane Capital Expected duration6 Working days Duties and ResponsibilitiesSubmission of a concept note for the workshop, outlining the proposed methodological approach for conducting the strategic foresight exercise for the UN Country team in Lao PDR. The concept note should demonstrate alignment with ongoing joint analyses and assessments. Based on the outcomes of the MDRA, design and facilitation of a UNCT workshop on strategic foresight and scenario analysis, The Consultant will be responsible for the substantive preparation of the workshop, including preparation of the agenda, facilitation guide, participants and briefing materials, with technical and administrative support from RCO staff. He/she is expected to attend a Multi-Dimensional Risk Assessment (MDRA) workshop and build on the outcomes of the MDRA to design the foresighting workshop. He/she is expected to support participants in identifying key strategic opportunities, potential risks, and indicative entry points for UN programming to inform the design of the Cooperation Framework 2027–2031. He/she is also expected to provide hands-on guidance for the UN Country team and their key technical staff on the key concepts, methodology and required steps to conduct a strategic foresighting exercise. Conduct a dedicated session with the UNCT to deep-dive in the outcomes of the exercise and their implications for UN programming for the coming five-year planning cycle. Development of a Foresight Report, that summarizes the approach to the scenario planning, outlines signals of change and articulates multiple scenarios and country pathways, and their implications for the work of the UN in Lao PDR. The Foresight report will be prepared with substantive inputs from the Resident Coordinator and his Office, with final endorsement of the report by the UNCT in Lao PDR Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced University Degree (master's or PhD) in political science, public administration, social science or a related field. Minimum 10 years of experience in provision of policy advice, consultancy, foresight, research in the field of development, peace and security or other related field. LanguagesFluency in English is required Additional InformationThe post may require travel to Vientiane Captial, Lao PDR for four days in which the travelling cost and DSA will be covered. 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.