Research Assistant – Disability Inclusion (Consultant)

About the role

The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is seeking a Research Assistant on a consultancy basis to support its Disability Team. The role focuses on desk research, analysis, and administrative support related to the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in the Arab region.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct high‑quality desk research and analysis on UNCRPD implementation and disability inclusion policies across Arab countries.
• Compile information and prepare background documents for the Intersectional Group of Experts on Disability (IGED) meetings and International Disability Day events.
• Draft reports, training materials, concept notes, and presentation slides using appropriate software tools.
• Provide administrative and logistical support for workshops, expert group meetings, and conferences, including minute‑taking and meeting reports.
• Assist in mainstreaming disability inclusion into national policies, strategies, and programmes, and support the preparation of written outputs such as background papers and technical reports.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in social science, economics, public policy, or a related field.
• Minimum nine years of professional experience in economics, public policy, or social science, with demonstrated knowledge of disability inclusion.
• Fluency in English and Arabic (speaking, reading, writing, and understanding).
• Relevant experience in the Arab region is desirable.