Comparative Study on Best Practices and Lessons Learned on National Cultural Identity in Post-Conflict Areas

Result of ServiceAs a result of this work, key elements and lessons related to state-building and the strengthening of national identity will be captured in a robust, evidence-based baseline study, accompanied by policy recommendations. These will support dialogue sessions on the topic and help build consensus around the findings through inclusive discussion. Work LocationRemote Expected duration1 Month Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground: The Syrian conflict has profoundly reshaped the country’s social fabric, disrupted historical narratives, and intensified identity-based divisions. Beyond the immense human suffering and widespread material destruction, the conflict has fragmented communities along political, ethnic, religious, and regional lines. These divisions have been further deepened by competing discourses around identity, belonging, history, and legitimacy—raising critical questions about what it means to be Syrian in a post-conflict reality. Historically, Syria has been home to a variety of cultural, religious, and linguistic communities. However, successive political narratives have often failed to inclusively represent this diversity, at times suppressing certain identities in favor of political unity or ideological coherence. The conflict has further politicized these identities, turning them into markers of division. In this context, rebuilding a shared and inclusive national cultural identity is emerging as a vital component of Syria’s long-term peacebuilding and recovery efforts. Addressing issues such as cultural recognition, collective memory, historical narratives, and inclusive representation will be essential to restoring trust, promoting reconciliation, and paving the way for a durable and peaceful future. In light of the above, the National Agenda for the Future of Syria (NAFS) programme at UN-ESCWA provides a unique platform for Syrian stakeholders to engage in inclusive, non-politicized dialogue on key policy issues related to Syria’s transition. With its thematic focus on governance, reconciliation, and social cohesion, NAFS recognizes the pivotal role that cultural identity can play in healing and uniting Syrian society. Through its cross-sectoral and consultative approach, the programme seeks to understand how other post-conflict societies have addressed similar challenges of identity, and how such experiences can inform the Syrian context. For this purpose, NAFS is commissioning a comparative study to analyze the best practices and lessons learned from other societies and post-conflict countries that have undertaken efforts to reconstruct their national cultural identity. This assignment aims to provide stakeholders with key insights, practical recommendations, and a clearer understanding of the risks and opportunities involved in fostering a national identity rooted in peace and inclusive citizenship. Duties and Responsibilities Under the supervision of the Programme Manager of the National Agenda for Syria (NAFS) Programme, the consultant will be responsible for the following duties: Output 1: Provide the methodology for comparative analysis, selecting post-conflict case studies and proposed structure. Output 2: A comprehensive analytical report detailing best practices and lessons learned on national cultural identity in post-conflict settings, with contextualized insights for Syria, by conducting an in-depth desk review of literature, policy documents, and reports as well as interviews with key informants (up to 5). Output 3: A final report reflecting all revisions and comments received. Qualifications/special skillsA PhD in political science, law, International and development studies, social studies, or a related area is required. All candidates must submit a copy of the required educational degree. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. A minimum of fifteen years of experience in research is required. Proven knowledge of conflict-affected contexts, including the Syrian or the Middle East context is required. Strong analytical, research, and writing skills with strong track record of publications is desirable. Experience working with UN agencies or international organizations is desirable. 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. 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.