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 Nature of the consultancy   The consultancy is required to provide specialized technical expertise in biodiversity assessment, Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA), and environmental conflict analysis, which is not available within the current project team. The assignment is time-bound and focused on providing technical assessments and recommendations to inform the design and implementation of a specific climate resilience intervention.   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. the Biodiversity and Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) Specialist will provide specialized technical support to inform the design and implementation of a climate resilience and ecosystem restoration project in Qushtapa, Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI)).     Organizational Department / Unit to which the Consultant is contributing Under the general guidance of the Chief of Mission, the overall supervision of the Head of Division and the direct supervision of the Programme Coordinator and the technical guidance of the relevant programme unit.     The consultancy is open to national consultants and will be primarily remote. However, field missions to Qushtapa District in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq will be required as part of the assignment.