Consultancy on preparing a technical paper on methodology for revenue-sharing systems: global approaches and insights for Arab countries (A case of Iraq)

Consultancy on preparing a technical paper on methodology for revenue-sharing systems: global approaches and insights for Arab countries (A case of Iraq) Result of ServiceUltimate results of serviceThe consultant will deliver the following in a timely manner: A technical paper (less than 8,000 words) on Methodology for revenue-sharing systems: global approaches and insights for Arab countries (A case of Iraq). The paper will provide a structured and analytically rigorous assessment of fiscal federalism and inter-governmental transfers, drawing on international standards, global best practices, and comparative revenue sharing models. It will clearly explain key concepts, review the design, rationale, and performance of revenue-sharing and fiscal transfer systems with examples of countries, and examine their impact on regional development, equity, and service delivery. Building on this analysis, the paper will identify policy options and actionable insights tailored to Iraq’s context, including considerations for natural-resource revenue sharing, equalization mechanisms, and rule-based transfer formulas that can support inclusive development and improved human development outcomes. Work LocationRemote Expected duration2 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground In response to the formal request of the General Authority for Monitoring the Allocation of Federal Revenues of Iraq, ESCWA conducted a national needs assessment and consultation workshop in September 2025 in Baghdad, marking an initial step in supporting the Authority’s in enhancing the fairness, transparency, and efficiency of federal resource allocation in Iraq, ensuring that all governorates receive their entitlements in a manner that supports stability and inclusive development. The workshop provided a platform to identify systemic challenges and capacity needs, with a focus on data systems, institutional practices, digital infrastructure, and institutional frameworks that are essential for effective oversight. Discussions examined the availability and quality of fiscal and socio-economic data required for informed decision-making and equitable revenue-sharing arrangements, and initiated a technical dialogue on transparent, evidence-based revenue-sharing framework informed by international experience, while respecting Iraq’s context. The workshop also explored potential benchmarks and indicators that may guide the evaluation of fiscal performance, efficiency, and equity across governorates. Duties and Responsibilities In this context, the consultant will be required to: • Present a conceptual overview and the rationale of federal fiscal transfers. • Examine vertical equity and efficiency in fiscal transfers: approaches, methodologies, and critical issues in country contexts. • Analyze horizontal equity and efficiency in fiscal transfers: approaches, methodologies, and critical issues in country contexts. • Review fiscal transfers through international experiences and draw lessons for comparative practice. • Design and assess institutional arrangements for fiscal transfers. • Specify data requirements and stakeholder engagement mechanisms. • Apply analytical insights to the Iraqi context to identify tailored policy options and actionable recommendations. Qualifications/special skillsAn Master's degree in economics, finance or related area is required. All candidates must submit a copy of the required educational degree. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. A minimum of 10 years of professional work experience in the design of federal revenue-sharing systems, including international standards, practices, approaches, and related policy issues, is required. A minimum of 1 year of work experience in providing advisory or technical support to governments on federal revenue sharing and related public finance topics is required. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat; and Arabic is a working language of ESCWA. For this position, fluency in English is required. Note: “Fluency” equals a rating of ‘fluent’ in all four areas (speak, read, write, and understand) and “Knowledge of” equals a rating of ‘confident’ in two of the four areas. Step Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE 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.