The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Asia Regional Office (ARO) is committed to promoting conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity in the Asia Region. In line with this commitment, IUCN-ARO also recognizes the importance of “Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures” (OECMs) and their role in achieving Target 3 (30×30) of the Kunming Montreal – Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF).

Objectives

The objective of this consultancy is to engage an experienced consultant to provide advisory services and expert inputs on Target-3 of the KM-GBF and related matters including OECMs in the Asia Region as a Strategic Adviser. H/She will work closely with relevant stakeholders to assist in the development of a comprehensive strategy for Target-3 in line with IUCN global strategy and contributions to OECMs, support capacity building initiatives, facilitate development and review of regional projects, and assist in fundraising efforts to advance Target 3 of the KM-GBF regionally.

Scope of Work

The tasks will include but not be limited to:

Strategy Development

• Collaborate with regional stakeholders to develop a pragmatic strategy for Target-3 (30×30) engagement in the Asia Region.
• Ensure alignment with international conservation goals and frameworks, including the CBD and GBF.
• Facilitate in organising national dialogue(s) on KM-GBF

Expert Inputs

• Provide expert guidance on OECMs, drawing on international best practices and lessons learned.
• Offer technical assistance to countries and organizations in the region to enhance their understanding and implementation of Target-3 (30×30).

Capacity Building

• Design and implement capacity-building initiatives, workshops, and training programs to strengthen the knowledge and skills of regional stakeholders on OECMs, at least 4 workshops
• Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among countries in the region for uptake of 30×30 Target.

Regional Project Development

• Facilitate the development and review of regional Target-3 (30×30) and OECM projects that address conservation priorities and support the implementation of the strategy.

Fundraising Support

• Work closely with IUCN-ARO to identify and reach-out regional stakeholders for exploring fundraising opportunities and assist in the development of proposals for Target-3 and OECMs project.

Deliverables

The Strategic Adviser is expected to deliver the following:

• Briefing paper on BF Target 3 (30×30) and OECMs strategy for Asia, including suggested implementation plan, with Consultant as the reviewer and editor.
• Series of Protected and Conserved Areas (PCAs) technical reports, advisories and guidance documents, with Consultant as lead reviewer.
• Draft project proposal on Target-3 (30×30) regional implementation for IUCN-ARO submission to potential donor.

Qualifications

The Strategic Adviser should possess the following qualifications:

• At least 10+ years of experience in biodiversity conservation and area-based conservation measures, with a focus on OECMs.
• Has some experience of working with various PCA agencies and government entities across Asia.
• Good understanding of KM-GBF and CBD processes and biodiversity-related UN
  Conventions.
• Prior experience in leading/advising state parties in the CBD process is required.
• Membership to IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) and experience working with the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) process will be added advantages.
• Proven leadership and experience in strategy development, capacity building, and fundraising for conservation initiatives.
• Strong network and relationships within the conservation community, including potential funding partners.
• Familiarity with regional conservation challenges and opportunities in the Asia Region in matters related to Protected and Conserved Areas

Timeline

• This consultancy is for a period of six months (possibility of extension) from the date of signing.
• This is not a full-time assignment. Inputs would be required between 7 to 10 days a month for 6 months duration. The engagement will be home-based with pre-approved work-related travel.
• Where physical travel is involved IUCN-ARO will cover the site visit travel and stay cost separately based on IUCN policy.