The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) is seeking a highly qualified Editor for the preparation of the sixth edition of the Global Report on Adult Learning and Education (GRALE 6). This opportunity is open to external candidates and offers a remote consultancy position lasting 7 to 11 months, with a structured payment schedule based on deliverables. The application deadline is 7 January 2026 (midnight Paris time).
Background and Opportunity
The Global Report on Adult Learning and Education (GRALE) is UIL’s flagship publication, produced every three to four years. It monitors the progress of UNESCO Member States in implementing international frameworks for adult learning and education (ALE) and provides evidence to support policy dialogue and system strengthening at global, regional, and national levels.
The GRALE 6 report, to be launched in 2027 as a key input to the CONFINTEA VII Mid-Term Review, will monitor the implementation of the Marrakech Framework for Action. It will feature two main components:
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Monitoring Section – based on a global survey completed by UNESCO Member States.
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Thematic Section – informed by research and contributions from international experts.
To ensure coherence and quality, UIL is hiring an Editor to guide the narrative, integrate contributions, draft key sections, and ensure adherence to UNESCO’s editorial standards.
Editorial Assignments
The Editor will work under the supervision of the UIL Director, Learning Ecosystem Team Leader, and GRALE 6 Cluster Lead, with the following responsibilities:
Overall Editorial Tasks
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Ensure analytical coherence, structure, and logical consistency across the report.
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Maintain adherence to UNESCO’s editorial, ethical, and language standards.
Methodology Guidance
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Contribute to methodology and conceptual framework development for the Thematic Section.
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Provide feedback on the Monitoring Section methodology.
Coordination and Guidance
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Guide thematic authors, review drafts, consolidate comments, and ensure alignment of cross-cutting themes.
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Support selection and onboarding of thematic authors.
Report Structure and Content Development
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Prepare overarching editorial concept and final outline of GRALE 6.
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Draft: Executive Summary, Introductions, Key Messages, Conclusions, and Policy Recommendations.
Quality Assurance
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Develop review rubrics for peer reviewers.
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Integrate feedback from UIL team, external experts, and peer reviewers.
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Ensure accuracy, clarity, consistency, and compliance with UNESCO standards.
Meetings and Reporting
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Participate in thematic authors’ meetings, monthly coordination meetings with the GRALE Core Team, and strategic UIL management meetings.
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Contribute to drafting agendas and progress notes.
Deliverables and Payment Schedule
| Payment | Deadline | Deliverables | % of Contract |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Payment | Mid February 2026 | Editorial conceptual framework + Report outline | 10% |
| 2nd Payment | End March 2026 | Final conceptual & methodological framework for Thematic Section | 10% |
| 3rd Payment | Mid July 2026 | Consolidated comments on first drafts | 20% |
| 4th Payment | End October 2026 | Second-round comments + Draft introduction, key messages, and recommendations | 20% |
| 5th Payment | Beginning December 2026 | Full final manuscript + Draft executive summary + Final report | 40% |
Location and Work Conditions
This consultancy is primarily home-based, allowing work from any location. Optional visits to the UIL office in Hamburg, Germany may be made at the consultant’s expense. Remote coordination with the UIL team during Hamburg office hours is required.
Penalty Clause: Payments may be withheld if deliverables are incomplete, delayed, or fail to meet quality standards.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess:
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Advanced university degree in education, social sciences, public policy, communications, or related field.
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Proven experience editing major international publications, preferably UN or UNESCO reports.
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Excellent writing, editing, and synthesis skills.
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Strong knowledge of lifelong learning and adult learning and education (ALE) frameworks, including GRALE 5 (2015), Marrakech Framework for Action (2022), and SDG 4.
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Experience managing multi-authored texts, ensuring consistency of tone, structure, and messaging.
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Ability to work under tight deadlines and incorporate iterative feedback.
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Outstanding command of written English; other UN languages are a plus.
Competencies
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Accountability, Communication, Innovation, Knowledge Sharing, Planning & Organizing, Teamwork, Professionalism.
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Commitment to UNESCO core values: Integrity, Respect for Diversity, and Professionalism.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit a single PDF (max 5 pages) including:
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Approach Description (1 page) – explaining the methodology for completing project assignments.
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Financial Proposal (1 page) – specifying the proposed payment for delivering the activities.
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Short CV – highlighting relevant experience, consultancy assignments, and expertise.
Applications missing any of the above elements will not be considered.
Deadline: 23:59 CET, 7 January 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
For queries, email: Here
This Editor consultancy at UNESCO UIL offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the GRALE 6 report, a pivotal tool in advancing global adult learning and education. With flexible remote work, structured deliverables, and collaboration with international experts, this role is ideal for professionals seeking to combine editorial expertise with global policy impact.