TERMS OF REFERENCE
Air pollution is one of the leading environmental health risks globally. The State of Global Air 2025 reports that approximately 36% of the global population was exposed to PM2.5 concentrations exceeding 35 µg/m³ in 2023, while nearly 2.6 billion people remain exposed to household air pollution from the use of solid fuels1 . Globally, air pollution contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality, with children being particularly vulnerable due to their developing respiratory systems and higher exposure rates. Air pollution arises from both outdoor (ambient) sources such as transport, industry, waste burning, and agriculture and indoor (household) sources, primarily the use of biomass fuels for cooking and heating. Household air pollution remains a major challenge in low- and middle-income countries, contributing to a high burden of disease among women and children2 . Pakistan is among the countries most affected by poor air quality. The country’s annual mean PM2.5 levels remain significantly above WHO guideline values, and a substantial proportion of the population continues to rely on polluting fuels for cooking. WHO estimates indicate that approximately 47% of the population lacks access to clean cooking fuels, highlighting the scale of indoor air pollution exposure2 . In addition, Pakistan experiences recurrent seasonal smog episodes, particularly in Punjab, driven by vehicular emissions, industrial activity, agricultural burning, and meteorological conditions. Recent evidence highlights the severity of the crisis. In November 2024, UNICEF reported that over 11 million children under five in Punjab were exposed to hazardous air pollution levels, with pollution concentrations exceeding WHO guideline limits multiple times during peak smog events. These conditions also led to school closures affecting approximately 16 million children, demonstrating the direct impact of air pollution on education and child well-being. Air pollution is further estimated to contribute to a significant proportion of under-five mortality in Pakistan, primarily through respiratory infections and related conditions3 . At the provincial level, Punjab faces the most severe urban smog challenges, while Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan experience a combination of urban emissions, household fuel use, and dust-related pollution. Although provincial clean air action plans have been developed, implementation and enforcement remain inconsistent4 , 5 . The distinction between indoor and outdoor air pollution is particularly important in the Pakistan context. Outdoor air pollution affects children’s exposure in urban environments, schools, and public spaces, while indoor air pollution disproportionately affects infants and young children through prolonged exposure in households using solid fuels. Both exposure pathways contribute to adverse health outcomes, including respiratory illnesses, impaired lung development, and increased vulnerability to disease
Minimum requirements
Demonstrated experience in policy analysis, strategy development, and multi-sectoral programmes
Skills Proven understanding of air pollution issues in low- and middle-income countries, preferably in South Asia or Pakistan
Experience in conducting evidence-based research and translating findings into policy and programmatic recommendations
Strong analytical writing, and stakeholder engagement skills
Knowledge of provincial/local languages will be considered an asset
For every Child, you demonstrate...
UNICEF does not hire candidates who are married to children (persons under 18). UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities. UNICEF is committed to promote the protection and safeguarding of all children. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check, and selected candidates with disabilities may be requested to submit supporting documentation in relation to their disability confidentially.
- An up-to-date TMS profile and curriculum vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- A detailed technical proposal including proposed Approach, and highlighting demonstrated technical Expertise (Air Quality and related areas)
Remarks
UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment, selection, and hiring processes (i.e., application stage, interview stage, validation stage, or appointment and training). UNICEF will not ask for applicants’ bank account information.
All UNICEF positions are advertised, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.