SDG Localization Junior Advisor

As a coordinating agency, the RCO seeks to strengthen cooperation between UN entities on issues related to economic development and climate change resilience.

The assignment takes place within the framework of Costa Rica’s commitment to the localization of the 2030 Agenda through inclusive and participatory processes. The UN Specialist will support the UN Resident Coordinator Office in scaling up the localization of the SDGs by strengthening the national network of local governments (Red de Cantones Promotores de los ODS), promoting Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), and facilitating multi-level dialogues between local authorities, civil society, academia, and the private sector. The assignment will place particular focus on SDG 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions) and SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals), contributing to inclusive governance, civic participation, and inter-institutional collaboration. The volunteer will also engage with national stakeholders to promote accountability, transparency, and institutional strengthening, while supporting the design and implementation of SDG-related consultation processes and political analysis that inform national development strategies.

Under the direct supervision of the Resident Coordinator, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

1. Support to SDG Localization and Municipal Engagement:
• Assist in the implementation and expansion of the Pro-SDG Municipalities Network, supporting municipalities in strengthening inclusive governance and developing Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs).
• Collaborate with the National SDG Secretariat (MIDEPLAN) and local partners to follow up on Costa Rica’s SDG Acceleration Plan.
2. Stakeholder Engagement & Civic Participation:
• Help coordinate multi-stakeholder activities involving civil society, youth, academia, and local institutions to promote inclusive and participatory implementation of the SDGs, especially in underserved territories.
• Support initiatives related to peacebuilding, civic dialogue, and human rights at the local level.
3. Monitoring and Communication:
•Assist in collecting and organizing data to track SDG progress in municipalities.
• Contribute to the development of communication materials (newsletters, infographics, social media content) to share results and raise awareness about the SDGs.
4. Operational and Learning Support:
•Support the logistics of SDG-related events, workshops, and consultations.
• Participate in field visits and internal learning activities to gain experience in political analysis, institutional coordination, and UN inter-agency work.
Additional Duties:
o Provide support for other tasks as requested by supervisors, contributing to team objectives.