UNICEF Seeks a Homebased Qualified Research Consultant
UNICEF Seeks a Homebased Qualified Research Consultant. The Research Consultant – Child Outcomes and Debt position with UNICEF offers an opportunity to contribute to critical research on the impact of national debt on children’s well-being. This remote consultancy role will support research efforts, policy development, and advocacy to shape child-focused debt restructuring mechanisms. Professionals with expertise in public policy, economics, or social sciences can apply for this rewarding opportunity to drive impactful change for children worldwide.
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UNICEF Seeks a Homebased Qualified Research Consultant
Background & Job Description
UNICEF is seeking a Research Consultant – Child Outcomes and Debt to support an in-depth research program analyzing the effects of national debt on children’s well-being. This consultancy position is part of UNICEF’s Director’s Office within the Programme Group and will be carried out remotely.
Debt plays a fundamental role in public finance, with the potential to drive growth and development when managed effectively. However, excessive national debt and burdensome debt-service obligations can strain government budgets, limiting social investments in critical areas like health, education, and child protection. Children, despite having no role in national debt accumulation, often bear the brunt of financial crises, facing reduced access to essential services and long-term developmental challenges.
UNICEF is increasingly concerned about the rising debt burdens, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Many nations struggle to meet their debt obligations while maintaining necessary social expenditures, leading to severe consequences for children’s rights and well-being. Given the increasing complexity of debt restructuring negotiations, UNICEF has launched a research initiative aimed at:
- Assessing the impact of national debt on child outcomes by evaluating social spending reductions and economic policy constraints.
- Exploring policy solutions that integrate child-focused debt restructuring mechanisms and safeguard social investment in critical services.
To advance this initiative, UNICEF seeks a qualified Research Consultant to contribute to research papers, coordinate expert engagements, assist in publishing materials, and support advocacy efforts. The consultant will be instrumental in developing research outputs, compiling case studies, engaging with external experts, and facilitating discussions that inform global policy approaches.
This is an excellent opportunity for professionals specializing in public policy, economics, social sciences, child poverty, or development finance to contribute to meaningful research that influences international policy and strengthens protections for children in economically challenged regions.
Tasks
As part of this consultancy, the Research Consultant – Child Outcomes and Debt will undertake a broad range of tasks, including:
1. Research Development and Analysis
- Conduct in-depth research on the impacts of national debt on child well-being, including examining fiscal policies, economic downturns, and reduced government expenditures.
- Analyze trends in debt sustainability, economic policies, and their correlation with child-focused spending in low- and middle-income countries.
- Prepare background research papers that provide insights into effective child-sensitive debt restructuring policies.
- Contribute to UNICEF’s knowledge base by developing analytical reports, case studies, and policy recommendations for governments and development partners.
2. Policy and Advocacy Support
- Engage with international policy experts, researchers, and financial institutions to align research findings with global discussions on debt restructuring.
- Provide policy insights to UNICEF senior staff for use in advocacy, policy briefs, and external engagement efforts.
- Support the development of briefing materials to enhance UNICEF’s influence in global discussions on debt relief and fiscal space for social investment.
3. Case Study Development and Expert Engagement
- Coordinate with country offices to compile case studies on the effects of national debt on children and identify best practices for debt management strategies that protect social spending.
- Engage with leading experts in development finance, child rights, and public policy to inform research direction and ensure high-quality outputs.
- Facilitate expert panels, conduct stakeholder outreach, and maintain collaboration with internal and external advisors.
4. Manuscript and Publication Development
- Draft, edit, and finalize chapters for a comprehensive research book on national debt and child outcomes.
- Work closely with publishers and editors to refine research materials and ensure publication quality.
- Assist in the translation of complex research findings into accessible policy recommendations for international audiences.
5. Event Coordination and Representation
- Support logistical and research-related preparations for key international events, including the UN General Assembly meeting on debt.
- Represent UNICEF’s research initiative in policy discussions, conferences, and high-level meetings on debt and child well-being.
- Ensure research findings are effectively communicated to policymakers, development agencies, and partner organizations.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
- Master’s or PhD in public policy, economics, social sciences, international development, or a related field (PhD preferred).
- Strong background in development finance, child rights, or public economic policy is highly desirable.
Experience
- 3-5 years of experience in policy research, child-focused economic development, or public finance analysis.
- Previous work with international organizations, NGOs, or government institutions in the field of economic development or child welfare.
- Experience conducting complex research projects and writing analytical reports.
- Demonstrated ability to engage with policymakers, international researchers, and financial experts.
- Knowledge of developing economies, debt sustainability, and fiscal policy.
Additional Information
Contract Details
- Duration: June 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026
- Location: Remote (Consultant must have reliable internet access and ability to work with international teams).
- Contract Type: Consultancy
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed financial proposal outlining the cost per deliverable and the total contract amount.
- Copies of academic credentials.
- A statement of availability confirming their ability to undertake the consultancy.
UNICEF will cover any unforeseen duty travel and related expenses. Candidates must ensure they have valid health insurance coverage for the contract duration.
Work Authorization and Visa Requirements
- For U.S.-based applicants, non-citizens must obtain G4 visa sponsorship if required.
- Consultants residing in the U.S. on other visa types must convert to a G4 visa and secure an Employment Authorization Card (EAD) for work eligibility.
Equal Opportunity Employer & UNICEF’s Core Values
UNICEF is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. All consultants are expected to adhere to UNICEF’s zero-tolerance policy on discrimination, sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. Background checks, including employment and academic verification, will be conducted for selected candidates.
Application Deadline
- Deadline to Apply: April 4, 2025
This consultancy offers a unique opportunity to contribute to UNICEF’s mission, ensuring child-sensitive debt policies remain at the forefront of global economic discussions. If you are a researcher with expertise in child poverty, debt sustainability, and economic development, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.
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