National Consultant – Biodiversity and Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) Specialist

Introduction

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. Working closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners, IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It saves lives and protects people on the move, drives solutions to displacement, and facilitates pathways for regular migration, while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. 

IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. By creating such an environment, IOM aims to better harness the full potential of migration and strengthen its support to people on the move.

IOM invites candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process when required. Learn more about IOM’s workplace culture at IOM workplace culture | International Organization for Migration

Project Context and Scope

The project aims to strengthen sustainable agricultural livelihoods and enhance ecosystem resilience through Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) approaches, including but not limited to conservation agriculture and aquifer recharge. The intervention is situated in a fragile context where the combined impacts of climate change, environmental degradation, and past and ongoing unsustainable agricultural practices have increased pressure on natural resources, soil health, and livelihoods.

Environmental degradation and biodiversity loss are recognized as key factors that can exacerbate resource scarcity, contribute to livelihood insecurity, and act as drivers of displacement and local tensions. At the same time, restoring ecosystems and strengthening biodiversity can play an important role in enhancing community resilience, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and contributing to stability in conflict-affected settings.

Within this framework, the Specialist will be responsible for conducting biodiversity and ecosystem assessments, analysing climate, environmental degradation, unsustainable agricultural practices on natural resources, and providing technical recommendations to ensure that project interventions effectively contribute to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem sustainability, and climate change adaptation.

The Specialist will work closely with project staff and support IOM-facilitated engagement with local stakeholders and partner organizations through field assessments, data collection, consultations, and focus group discussions.