Result of Service

Analysis of MDB and DFI project databases and findings on the extent to which digital projects address human rights concerns.

Work Location

Home based

Expected duration

1/10/2023-30/11/2023

Duties and Responsibilities

To undertake research to identify the extent to which environmental and social (E&S) risk assessment and management processes of development finance institutions (DFIs) address human rights concerns associated with digital technology projects. The research will be undertaken by the consultant in October-November 2023 and will feed into OHCHR’s longer-term project in 2023-24 on digital risks in DFI-supported projects. The research will aim to fill the evidence gap in terms of how digital risks are addressed through the application of DFIs’ existing environmental and social (E&S) safeguard policies and risk management processes. The consultant will carry out preliminary consultations and key informant interviews in order to scope the work, and will then undertake a literature review and web-based research of the project databases of major multilateral development banks (MDBs) and a selection of bilateral DFIs, identified in consultation with OHCHR. The consultant will analyse E&S ratings and assessment information for digital projects in key sectors, along with E&S risk information for projects which are not defined as “digital” but nevertheless have significant digital dimensions. The consultant will also review available thematic evaluations, E&S guidance material, evaluations of E&S outcomes of projects, and databases of DFIs’ independent accountability mechanisms. Applying an analytical framework agreed with OHCHR, the consultant will assess the extent to which existing E&S risk assessment and management policies and practices for digital projects address human rights concerns, and present the findings in a clear and comprehensive fashion, with the DFI readership in mind. The consultant will participate as a resource person in at least one on-line consultation meeting with DFIs in November 2023.

Qualifications/special skills

Strong research skills are essential. 2 years experience in the fields of development finance, digital technology or human rights are desirable.

Languages

Fluency in English required

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.