The BESPIN Regional Trialogue for Europe and Central Asia (ECA), jointly organized by the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Network (BES-Net) and the EU-funded RESPIN project, will take place from 19–21 May 2026 in Skopje, North Macedonia. To support this process, BES-Net is seeking one online volunteer from each participating country who will contribute with researching essential country-specific background information. Their work will help ensure that the Trialogue is grounded in national realities and informed by existing institutions, initiatives, and policy processes.

This is a short-term, task-based and non-contractual remote assignment. Online Volunteers are not UN Volunteers and do not receive any allowance or entitlements. A certificate of appreciation is issued upon successful completion. UNV is not involved in the selection process or collaboration.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct a targeted review of the national context related to biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate change, with particular attention to linkages between IPBES and IPCC-relevant themes.

• Identify and map key national institutions and stakeholders, including government bodies, research institutions, civil society organizations, and other relevant actors involved in biodiversity and climate policy or practice.

• Compile and summarize relevant national strategies, policies, reports, projects, and initiatives that relate to biodiversity–climate synergies (e.g. NBSAPs, NDCs, nature-based solutions, ecosystem-based adaptation).

• Identify examples of good practices, challenges, and gaps in the coordinated uptake of biodiversity and climate knowledge at national level.

• Prepare a concise country summary note, following a set template, to support the development of the Trialogue background document and inform the following analytical work.

Job Requirements

• Experience in research, policy analysis, or information gathering related to biodiversity, ecosystems, climate change, or sustainable development.

• Familiarity with national biodiversity and/or climate institutions, policies, or projects in the volunteer’s country.

• Basic knowledge of IPBES and IPCC processes and assessments (or strong interest in learning).

• Strong analytical and synthesis skills.

• Ability to work independently and communicate clearly in writing.

• Languages: English (required) and the national/local language of the respective country (required).

Growth Opportunity

This assignment offers a valuable opportunity to:

• Engage directly with regional and international science–policy processes related to biodiversity and climate.

• Build connections with national and regional experts and institutions.

• Deepen understanding of IPBES and IPCC assessments and their application in real-world policy contexts.

• Contribute meaningfully to a flagship BES-Net Trialogue focused on transformative, integrated action.