The Role of an Economist (NOD) at UNDP Maldives: Economic Challenges, Policy Impact, and Future Trends
The Economist (NOD) position at UNDP Maldives is a high-level role that focuses on providing economic policy advice, research, and technical support to the UNDP country office and the Maldivian government. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the job:
1. Organization and Purpose of the Role
- Employer: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Location: Maldives
- Contract Type: Fixed-term (1 year, with possible extension)
- Agency: UNDP Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific
- Grade Level: NOD (National Officer, Development)
- Reporting to: Resident Representative & Deputy Resident Representative
The Economist will play a key advisory role in shaping policies that promote sustainable development in the Maldives. The focus will be on aligning national policies with UNDP’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improving economic growth strategies.
2. Key Responsibilitieshttp://UNDP Economist Job in Maldives
The job has four major components:
A. Policy and Technical Advisory Services
- Provide economic insights to UNDP leadership and government stakeholders.
- Develop strategies and solutions for economic transformation, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth.
- Conduct economic analyses and prepare policy briefs.
- Lead the Development Finance Assessment (DFA) to optimize national financing strategies.
- Collaborate with UNDP’s Accelerator Labs to implement innovative policies.
B. Government Policy Support & Sustainable Development Advice
- Support the Maldivian government in policy formulation and implementation.
- Guide efforts in monitoring and reporting progress toward SDGs.
- Strengthen data collection and analysis capacity at national and local levels.
- Assist in leveraging regional/global UNDP expertise to strengthen economic policies.
C. Representation, Advocacy & Partnerships
- Represent UNDP at policy forums, government meetings, and conferences.
- Build strong relationships with government bodies, development partners, private sector, and civil society.
- Support resource mobilization and develop large-scale development programs.
D. Regional & Cross-Country Collaboration
- Work with the UNDP Economist Network across the Asia-Pacific region.
- Contribute to regional policy papers and economic reports.
- Provide expertise on economic diversification, inequality, and development financing.
3. Required Qualifications & Skills@vacancyspaces.com
Education
- Master’s Degree in Economics (required) with 7 years of experience
OR - Bachelor’s Degree in Economics with 9 years of experience
- Ph.D. in Economics is an added advantage.
Experience
- Strong policy and research background in economics, with focus on sustainable development, economic transformation, and financing for development.
- Experience in advising government bodies on economic policy.
- Knowledge of statistical software and data analysis is preferred.
- Previous experience in Maldives or the Asia-Pacific region is a plus.
Languages
- Fluent in English and Dhivehi (official language of Maldives).
4. Competencies & Skills
The job requires expertise in:
- Economic policy analysis
- Strategic planning & partnerships
- Economic diversification & transformation
- Data analysis & reporting
- Project & portfolio management
5. Supervisory Role
The Economist will manage and oversee a team of economic analysts and project associates, including:
- Tax for SDG Coordinator
- Public Finance Management Analyst
- Climate Finance Analyst
- Junior Economist
6. Workplace & Mobility
- Location: Maldives
- No mobility required (i.e., no frequent international travel).
7. Additional Notes
- UNDP strongly encourages diverse and inclusive hiring, welcoming applicants from marginalized backgrounds.
- UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, and sexual exploitation.
- The organization does not charge any fees for applications or recruitment.
8. Application & Deadline
- Posting Date: March 2, 2025
- Deadline to Apply: March 18, 2025 (5:59 AM)
Table of Contents
Why Apply for This Job?
This is a prestigious opportunity for an experienced economist to:
✅ Work with the UN on high-impact economic policies in the Maldives.
✅ Influence national economic strategies and promote sustainable development.
✅ Collaborate with global and regional economic experts in the UNDP network.
✅ Gain experience in government advisory, policy planning, and SDG financing.
Sure! Here’s an in-depth explanation of the Economist (NOD) position at UNDP Maldives, covering all aspects, including job role, responsibilities, qualifications, competencies, organizational impact, and career benefits.
Economist (NOD) – UNDP Maldives
An In-Depth Look at the Role, Responsibilities, and Impact
1. Introduction to UNDP and Its Role in Maldives
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a leading international organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development, poverty eradication, and economic transformation in over 170 countries and territories worldwide.
UNDP has been an active development partner in the Maldives for over 45 years, supporting the government and local institutions in achieving inclusive growth, sustainable economic policies, and resilience-building efforts.
This role, Economist (NOD), is designed to support economic policymaking, strategic planning, and sustainable development initiatives in the Maldives. The Economist will provide technical expertise and research-based guidance to the government, policymakers, development partners, and UNDP leadership, ensuring that economic policies align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2. Position Overview
- Job Title: Economist (Nationals Only)
- Location: Maldives
- Contract Type: Fixed Term (1 year, with a possibility of extension)
- Vacancy Type: National Officer (NOD)
- Agency: UNDP, Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific
- Reporting to: Resident Representative & Deputy Resident Representative
- Education Requirements: Master’s or Bachelor’s in Economics
- Experience Required: 7-9 years of relevant economic policy experience
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in English and Dhivehi
This position is exclusive to Maldivian nationals, reinforcing the focus on local economic expertise and national policy strengthening.
3. The Role and Responsibilities of the Economist
The Economist is expected to serve as a bridge between economic research, policy advisory, and program implementation. The key objective is to help the Maldivian government, UNDP, and stakeholders develop sustainable, inclusive, and evidence-based economic policies.
Key Responsibilities
The position consists of four major responsibility areas:
A. Economic Policy Advisory & Technical Support to UNDP Maldives
- Provide expert policy analysis and economic insights for UNDP leadership in the Maldives.
- Lead the development and implementation of economic strategies that align with Maldivian national development priorities and the SDGs.
- Offer technical support in economic modelling, forecasting, and policy evaluations.
- Conduct macroeconomic and fiscal policy analyses to identify key development trends affecting the Maldives.
- Advise on inclusive economic growth strategies, ensuring that marginalized and underserved communities benefit from national economic policies.
- Monitor economic indicators such as inflation, GDP growth, public debt, and investment patterns to ensure data-driven policy recommendations.
- Develop high-quality policy briefs, research papers, and economic reports for internal and external use.
B. Supporting the Maldivian Government on Economic Development & SDGs
- Collaborate with government institutions (e.g., Ministry of Finance, Central Bank, National Planning Agencies) to design policies that promote sustainable and inclusive growth.
- Support national SDG monitoring and data collection efforts to track economic progress.
- Guide the implementation of Development Finance Assessment (DFA) to optimize resource allocation and innovative financing solutions.
- Offer recommendations for economic diversification strategies, reducing Maldives’ heavy dependence on tourism and fisheries.
- Provide expertise in climate finance, taxation, and fiscal policies, ensuring sustainable economic planning.
- Assist in structural economic reforms, including public sector efficiency improvements, labor market policies, and private sector development initiatives.
C. Partnerships, Advocacy, and Representation
- Represent UNDP in economic policy dialogues, government meetings, and regional economic forums.
- Strengthen partnerships between UNDP, Maldivian government, private sector, academic institutions, and civil society organizations.
- Support resource mobilization efforts by advocating for increased development financing.
- Engage with international financial institutions (IFIs) such as the World Bank, IMF, and Asian Development Bank to ensure policy alignment.
- Promote awareness of UNDP’s work by collaborating on regional and global research projects.
- Lead public engagement initiatives, hosting events and workshops to discuss key economic issues facing the Maldives.
D. Regional & Global Engagement in UNDP’s Economic Network
- Work closely with the regional UNDP Economist Network, sharing insights and best practices from the Maldives.
- Contribute to regional research and publications, helping to shape policy debates across Asia and the Pacific.
- Provide technical support for cross-country studies on economic trends, inequality, and development financing.
- Stay updated on global economic policies and trends to ensure that Maldives remains competitive and resilient in the changing economic landscape.
4. Required Qualifications & Skills
Educational Qualifications
- Master’s Degree in Economics (with at least 7 years of experience in economic research, policymaking, or economic advisory roles).
- Bachelor’s Degree in Economics (with 9 years of experience in relevant fields).
- A Ph.D. in Economics is considered an advantage but not mandatory.
Professional Experience
- Extensive experience (7-9 years) in economic policy research, data analysis, and advisory work.
- Proven ability to develop policy recommendations for governments, UN agencies, or international organizations.
- Strong experience in macroeconomic analysis, fiscal policies, and public finance management.
- Experience in leading economic research projects and preparing policy briefs for senior policymakers.
- Prior work experience in the Maldives, Asia-Pacific region, or developing economies is an asset.
- Strong knowledge of SDGs, sustainable finance, and economic diversification strategies.
- Proficiency in data handling, economic modelling software, and statistical tools.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English and Dhivehi (oral and written).
5. Competencies & Technical Skills
Core Competencies
- Analytical Thinking – Ability to interpret economic data, forecast trends, and make policy recommendations.
- Strategic Visioning – Develop long-term economic strategies for sustainable development.
- Political Acumen – Understand economic governance and political economy dynamics.
- Stakeholder Engagement – Collaborate effectively with government, private sector, and international partners.
Technical & Functional Skills
- Macroeconomic & Fiscal Policy Analysis
- Economic Modelling & Forecasting
- Statistical & Econometric Analysis
- Development Finance & SDG Monitoring
- Public Policy & Governance
- Trade & Investment Strategies
6. Career Benefits & Growth Opportunities
Joining UNDP as an Economist in the Maldives provides:
✅ High-Level Policy Influence – Opportunity to shape national economic policies.
✅ Global Network – Work alongside UN economists from across Asia and the Pacific.
✅ Career Growth – Potential for promotion and regional assignments.
✅ Exposure to Key Development Issues – Work on climate finance, taxation, and SDG integration.
✅ Competitive Salary & Benefits – UNDP offers a stable career path with professional development support.
7. Application Process & Deadline
- Job Posting Date: March 2, 2025
- Application Deadline: March 18, 2025 (5:59 AM Maldives time)
Final Thoughts
This is a prestigious opportunity for economists in the Maldives to contribute to national economic policymaking while working in an international development environment. If you have a strong economic background, policy expertise, and a passion for sustainable development, this role is ideal for you
Certainly! Let’s expand further on the Economist (NOD) – UNDP Maldives position, covering additional aspects like economic challenges in the Maldives, the role of UNDP in economic development, real-world case studies, the importance of data-driven policymaking, and future trends in economic development.
Economist (NOD) – UNDP Maldives
A Deep Dive Into the Role and Its Impact
8. The Economic Landscape of Maldives
Understanding the Maldives’ economic structure, challenges, and opportunities is crucial to appreciating the impact this role will have.
The Maldives is a small island developing state (SIDS) with a unique economic structure. Its economy is heavily dependent on:
- Tourism – Contributes more than 28% of GDP and accounts for over 60% of foreign exchange earnings.
- Fisheries – A key sector for employment and exports, especially for tuna.
- Services & Trade – Support sectors like finance, transport, and public services.
- Infrastructure Development – Driven by government investments and foreign aid.
Key Economic Challenges
The Maldives faces several structural economic challenges that the Economist at UNDP will need to address:
1. Overdependence on Tourism
- Tourism is vulnerable to global shocks such as pandemics, financial crises, and climate disasters.
- The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 30% contraction of GDP in 2020 due to declines in tourist arrivals.
- Diversification strategies are needed to reduce economic risk.
2. Public Debt and Fiscal Sustainability
- Maldives has a high debt-to-GDP ratio (over 110% as of 2024).
- Heavy reliance on public borrowing for infrastructure projects.
- The Economist will play a role in developing debt management strategies.
3. Climate Change and Economic Vulnerability
- Rising sea levels and extreme weather events pose risks to coastal infrastructure, fisheries, and tourism.
- The cost of climate adaptation is increasing.
- The Economist will work on climate finance and sustainable economic policies.
4. Income Inequality and Employment Gaps
- Economic benefits are concentrated in urban areas (Malé and major tourist zones).
- Unemployment is high among youth and women.
- Policy interventions are needed to create inclusive economic opportunities.
9. The Role of UNDP in Economic Development
UNDP has been supporting the Maldives for decades through initiatives that focus on:
- Sustainable economic growth and resilience-building.
- Capacity-building for government institutions.
- Innovative financing models to address economic challenges.
- Promoting inclusive and equitable development.
Key Economic Programs Led by UNDP in Maldives
- Sustainable Financing for Development (SFD) – Helps mobilize public and private finance for SDG-driven projects.
- Blue Economy Development – Supports marine-based industries beyond tourism and fisheries.
- Youth Employment & Skills Training – Addresses high youth unemployment.
- Climate Resilience & Disaster Risk Reduction – Helps the Maldives adapt to climate change while ensuring economic stability.
The Economist will play a major role in shaping, implementing, and evaluating these programs.
10. The Importance of Data-Driven Policymaking
A critical responsibility of the Economist is to ensure evidence-based policymaking using economic data, statistical models, and forecasting tools.
Key Data and Economic Indicators
The Economist will analyze and monitor key economic indicators such as:
- GDP Growth Rate – Tracks overall economic performance.
- Inflation Rate – Affects cost of living and purchasing power.
- Public Debt & Fiscal Deficit – Measures financial sustainability.
- Employment & Labor Market Trends – Assesses job creation and skills gaps.
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Trends – Determines investor confidence.
- Tourism Revenue & Visitor Arrivals – Vital for GDP projections.
Use of Economic Modelling Tools
- Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) models – Simulate the impact of policy changes.
- Time-series forecasting models – Predict economic trends based on historical data.
- Input-Output Analysis – Examines sectoral interdependencies in the economy.
By applying data analytics and forecasting, the Economist will help develop more effective, long-term policies.
11. Real-World Case Studies: UNDP’s Economic Impact in Maldives
Case Study 1: COVID-19 Economic Recovery
- The COVID-19 crisis led to a sharp economic contraction in the Maldives.
- UNDP helped design stimulus measures, including targeted cash transfers and small business recovery programs.
- The Economist played a key role in advising the government on fiscal measures to avoid excessive debt burdens.
Case Study 2: Sustainable Tourism & Blue Economy
- UNDP initiated projects to diversify the tourism sector, focusing on community-based eco-tourism.
- This reduced economic reliance on large luxury resorts and increased local economic participation.
- The Economist contributed by developing investment incentives and tax structures for sustainable businesses.
Case Study 3: Women’s Economic Empowerment
- UNDP worked with the government to promote financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs.
- Policies were introduced to increase female workforce participation in sectors beyond traditional roles.
- The Economist provided data insights on gender gaps and labor force trends, shaping new policies.
These case studies highlight how the Economist’s role is crucial in addressing real-world economic challenges.
12. Future Trends in Economic Development for Maldives
As an Economist at UNDP, staying ahead of emerging economic trends is key to developing forward-thinking policies.
Emerging Trends to Watch
✔ Green Economy & Sustainable Finance
- Maldives is exploring climate bonds and carbon credits to fund environmental projects.
✔ Digital Economy & Fintech Innovation
- Growth in e-commerce, digital banking, and blockchain applications.
- Need for policies on digital taxation and cybersecurity.
✔ Regional Economic Integration
- Strengthening trade ties with India, Sri Lanka, and ASEAN nations.
- Potential to expand export markets for Maldivian products.
✔ Blue Economy Expansion
- Investment in sustainable fisheries, marine biotechnology, and ocean-based renewable energy.
✔ Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
- Encouraging private sector investment in infrastructure and sustainable industries.
The Economist will play a leading role in shaping policy responses to these trends.
13. The Path to Becoming an Economist at UNDP
For professionals aspiring to work at UNDP as an Economist, the following roadmap can help:
📌 Earn a Master’s Degree in Economics, Public Policy, or Development Studies.
📌 Gain experience in economic research, policymaking, or financial analysis.
📌 Develop strong skills in data analytics, economic modelling, and policy writing.
📌 Work with government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations.
📌 Engage in UN programs or economic research projects in developing countries.
If you are passionate about economic development, sustainability, and public policy, this is a prestigious and impactful career path.
14. Final Thoughts: Why This Role Matters
The Economist (NOD) role at UNDP Maldives is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to:
🌍 Influence national economic policies.
📊 Promote data-driven decision-making.
💰 Shape sustainable financial strategies.
🤝 Engage with international organizations and policymakers.
🔬 Develop innovative economic solutions for a resilient future.
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