This assignment aims to develop a strategic internal framework for the South Asia region that effectively integrates social policy and climate action priorities. By leveraging existing regional experience and analyzing global best practices, the consultancy will support in developing a comprehensive internal framework document for the region. This framework will not only guide internal efforts but also guide UNICEF’s approach to external engagement with partners, engagement and fundraising efforts and inform strategic sectoral collaboration.

Main deliverables:

1. Discussion with UNICEF ROSA advisory group (regional and country colleagues).

2. Development of updated concept and outline.

3. Development of methodological note for consultations, would include but not limited to:

• One 1hr discussion with each engaged country (assuming 5 countries).
• Two to three 45 min partner discussions per country at and regional level. These would be one on one with partners rather than as a group (Total 18 discussions). Partners to included programme partners and funding/potential funding partners

4. Development of background note on partner engagement on climate and social policy (social protection, child poverty, public finance for children).

5. Background research and development of approach by social policy area and initial draft or framing. Thematic group discussions with regional colleagues (given small teams with multiple responsibilities most efficient approach TBD).

• Child poverty
• Social protection
• Public finance
• Policy influence

6. Development of case studies and examples

7. Develop presentation, discussion and receive written comments from social policy.

8. Delivery of final draft and accompanying slide deck.

Note: This is a remote based consultancy and no travel is required. Please submit your application along with the financial proposal. Applications without the financial proposal will not be considered.

Requirements:

Education:

• Masters degree in economics, Social Sciences, International Development, Public Administration, Public Policy, Social Policy or other relevant disciplines.
• A first university degree in economics, Social Sciences, International Development, Public Administration, Public Policy, Social Policy or other relevant disciplines.

Knowledge/Expertise/Skills and Competencies required:

• Over 10 years of relevant work experience in social policy, children’s rights, environmental and climate change issues, international development.
• Knowledge and working experience on climate change and social policy development, and analysis.
• Proven capacity to work with cross-functional teams in collating, managing, sharing knowledge and learning.
• Excellent analytical and writing skills, as well as advocacy skills.
• Publication record.
• Experience in working within UNICEF or other UN/international entities and/or familiarity with the work of UNICEF is an asset.
• Advanced level of English.