Organization Mission

Representing the UN Secretary-General in Egypt, the United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC) and the Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) facilitate the work of the UN Country Team (UNCT), support efforts towards a strategic positioning of the UN Development System in the national development context and manage the dialogue process with the Government of Egypt, civil society and private sector. The UNRC also holds the leadership role over the strategic initiatives and joint activities of the UNCT, as well as oversight of the various results groups, joint programmes, and other inter-agency initiatives.

For the UNRC and the UNCT to successfully fulfil their expanding mandates in Egypt, the UNRC needs the necessary human and technical resources at her/his disposal to effectively manage and lead the coherent implementation of the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for the years 2023 to 2027, and the integrated implementation of the SDGs in furtherance of national development priorities as outlined in the national Sustainable Development Strategy (Egypt’s Visio 2030). To this effect, the UNRCO supports the work of the UNRC by providing strategic integrated technical and advisory support. This includes serving as a one-stop-shop for advisory services anchored in the UNSDCF. This dedicated support both ensures coherence across the various management groups, and enables equal opportunities for all UNCT members, including Non-Resident Agencies (NRAs), to take the strategic leadership in the implementation and oversight of the UNSDCF. The UNRCO will also be convening SDG initiatives that aim at complementing the implementation of the UNSDCF and accelerate the achievement of the 2030 Agenda in cross-cutting priority themes.

Context

The UN Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Egypt plays a pivotal role in coordinating the United Nations” development activities in the country. As the designated representative of the UN Secretary-General, the Resident Coordinator ensures the alignment of UN efforts with national priorities, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing national capacities.

The RCO supports the UN country team in strategic planning, joint programming, and harmonizing business practices to improve efficiency. Additionally, the office engages in advocacy, communication, and resource mobilization to support various development initiatives. With one of the largest UN footprints globally, the RCO in Egypt is instrumental in fostering coherence among UN entities and facilitating integrated support for key national and regional priorities.

The role often involves gathering and analysing economic data, providing insights on economic trends, and supporting the development of sustainable economic policies and initiatives. The international volunteer may work closely with local government entities, civil society organizations, and other UN agencies to promote economic development and more broadly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Government of Egypt is very committed to sustainable financing. This is a pivotal moment which requires the UN to be well equipped to raise to the expectations.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the RCO Economist, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

1. To provide technical support to the UN RCO in strategic engagements with economic ministries, including the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, and with the UNCT to further the implementation of Egypt’s Integrated National Financing Strategy and other key national strategies contributing to the SDGs, especially those with a socioeconomic focus.

2. To provide technical support in the substantive coordination of targeted economic results under the Cooperation/Partnerships Framework, particularly in the promotion of economic diversification and inclusive economic growth as well as other socioeconomic actions conducted by the UN Country Team in Egypt.

3. To assist in collaboration, building and nurturing of partnerships with Government, development partners, private sector, academia and civil society.

4. To provide technical support to the execution of the on-going UNCT analytical function responsible for the formulation of periodic Common Country Analyses (CCAs).

5. To contribute to the formulation of policy briefs and advocacy notes on economic diversification, inclusive growth, financing for sustainable development, climate finance, green and circular economies and related topics.

6. To build and maintain databases of economic data and conduct data analysis in support of evidence-based policy advisory and advocacy.

7. To contribute to the application by the UN and its partners of systems thinking, strategic foresight, data, innovation, behavioural science and more generally UN 2.0 initiatives by the RCO and the UNCT.

Required Skills and Experience

Demonstrated interest or experience in
• Economic Analysis
• Economic, strategic or management consulting
• Lecturing, tutoring or communication of economic theories and policies

Skills in:
• Report Writing (in English)
• Data Management and Analysis
• Innovation
• Foresight

Core Competencies

• Accountability
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Building Trust
• Client Orientation
• Commitment and Motivation
• Commitment to Continuous Learning
• Communication
• Creativity
• Ethics and Values
• Integrity
• Planning and Organizing
• Professionalism
• Respect for Diversity
• Self-Management
• Technological Awareness
• Working in Teams

Living Conditions

Cairo offers a relatively low cost of living, with affordable housing options ranging from modern apartments to villas in expat-friendly neighbourhoods. While Cairo”s vibrant culture and historical richness provide a unique living experience, expats often face challenges such as traffic congestion and pollution. However, the availability of quality private healthcare and international schools ensures a comfortable lifestyle for families. Adapting to the local way of life and embracing the city”s bustling environment can make living in Cairo a rewarding experience. The general security situation in Cairo, Egypt remains stable and contained. The situation is mainly impacted by (potential) incidents of hazards and crime. However no major security incidents have been recently recorded affecting the UN.