2nd Re-Advertisement: TA-6597 REG: TA-6597 REG: International Social Safeguards Specialist - Support (54071-001)

The Cook Islands is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand and qualifies as a small island developing state (SIDS). Its economy was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, triggering an Economic Recovery Roadmap to rebuild resilience, restore growth and align development with its Economic Development Strategy 2030. Tourism drives a large share of GDP, and concessional financing arrangements from institutions such as the Asian Development Bank support infrastructure needs, climate adaptation and social services - key enablers of sustainable and inclusive development in the face of geographic isolation and small markets.

Fiji is an upper-middle-income Pacific island country whose economy is driven by tourism, agriculture and remittances. As a small island developing state (SIDS), it faces acute exposure to climate change, natural disasters and external shocks. In recent years, Fiji has prioritised resilient infrastructure, renewable energy expansion and fiscal consolidation to strengthen macroeconomic stability following pandemic-related disruptions. Development partners, including multilateral development banks, support investments in transport, water systems and climate adaptation. Continued reforms to public financial management, private sector development and disaster-risk governance remain central to sustaining inclusive growth and reducing vulnerability to climate-related risks.