UN Youth Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization established in 1951, dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of migrants and society. IOM operates in over 100 countries and has a workforce of more than 17,000 employees. The organization focuses on addressing migration challenges and opportunities through comprehensive approaches that integrate climate resilience, gender equity, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, particularly in regions like the Caribbean where Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face unique challenges.

Job Overview:
The UN Youth Volunteer position is designed to empower Caribbean youth to actively participate in climate action initiatives, strengthen gender-sensitive policy dialogues, and promote food security as part of an integrated resilience-building agenda. The volunteer will work under the direct supervision of the Coordinator for the Dutch and English-speaking Caribbean and the Chief of Mission for Barbados. The role involves bridging research, advocacy, and policy implementation by supporting inclusive stakeholder engagement and fostering knowledge exchange across Caribbean SIDS and beyond, including the Pacific Islands. This initiative aligns with IOM's priorities and Ireland's commitment to climate justice and gender equity, addressing the pressing issues faced by Caribbean SIDS due to climate change and migration.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Policy Support and Strategic Analysis: The volunteer will support the mapping and analysis of regional and national policies related to climate change adaptation, food security, and gender equality in the context of human mobility across Caribbean SIDS. They will assist in reviewing and aligning Caribbean SIDS strategies with global frameworks and contribute to the preparation of policy briefs and background documents for IOM’s engagement in regional and international forums.
• Programme and Project Design: The volunteer will assist in conceptualizing and developing regional initiatives or pilot projects that address the nexus between climate change, gender equality, human mobility, and food security. They will contribute to preparing project concept notes and support IOM’s technical cooperation with governments and regional institutions.
• Stakeholder Engagement and (Cross) Regional Coordination: The volunteer will support IOM’s engagement with regional partners, coordinate consultations and technical workshops, and document good practices and lessons learned from Caribbean SIDS.
• Knowledge Generation and Reporting: The volunteer will assist in preparing research notes and synthesis reports on climate-induced mobility, monitor global climate negotiations, and support drafting progress reports for IOM management and donors.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a commitment to gender equality and climate resilience. They should be adaptable, flexible, and able to work collaboratively in a team environment. A proactive approach to problem-solving and creativity in developing solutions are also essential. The candidate should demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity in all interactions.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a degree in social sciences, environmental studies, international relations, or a related field. A background in climate change, migration, or gender studies would be advantageous. Knowledge of regional issues affecting Caribbean SIDS is also beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant experience in research, policy analysis, or project management, particularly in areas related to climate change, migration, or gender equality. Experience working with international organizations or in a multicultural environment is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the organization. Knowledge of other languages spoken in the Caribbean region, such as Spanish or French, would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a UN Volunteer position based in Bridgetown, Barbados, which is a family-duty station with stable political and social conditions. The role may require travel to other Caribbean SIDS, subject to security and budget considerations. The assignment offers opportunities for engagement with regional actors and participation in high-level policy dialogues and practical programmatic interventions. The complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service can be found on the UNV website.