UN Volunteer Assistant Programme Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in multiple countries around the world, with a focus on integrating environmental considerations into national policies and programs. The UNEP Regional Office for West Asia is located in Beirut, Lebanon, and plays a crucial role in supporting countries in the region to enhance their environmental governance frameworks.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Assistant Programme Coordinator position is designed to strengthen the UNEP Regional Office for West Asia’s capacity to support countries, particularly Kuwait, in revising and updating their environmental governance frameworks. This role emphasizes outreach and communication, focusing on assisting in the formulation of strategies and action plans related to the National Environment Strategy and Action Plan (NESAP), the National Strategy to Combat Desertification, and the National Data Management Strategy. The position also involves analyzing data and information on environmental laws, strategies, and Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs), developing governance concepts tailored to the regional context, and drafting project reports and communication materials. The volunteer will contribute to enhancing communication and visibility through various outreach channels, including newsletters, websites, and social media, while coordinating meetings, webinars, and awareness sessions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer Assistant Programme Coordinator will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting the facilitation and coordination of efforts to assist countries in the West Asia region, particularly Kuwait, in revising and updating their environmental governance frameworks.
• Analyzing data and information related to environmental laws, strategies, and Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs).
• Developing governance concepts for environmental governance tailored to the regional context.
• Drafting project reports and other documentation.
• Organizing meetings, webinars, and related events, including the preparation of technical materials, information notes, and meeting reports.
• Performing other duties related to project implementation, including communication activities and social media management.
• Undertaking any other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively across organizational boundaries. They should demonstrate excellent planning and organizational skills, with the ability to manage a large volume of work efficiently and meet conflicting deadlines. A commitment to gender equality and sensitivity to cultural diversity is essential. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of environmental economics and natural resource management, along with the ability to liaise with various stakeholders, particularly in senior positions. A high degree of autonomy, personal initiative, and resourcefulness are also required, along with the ability to manage information accurately and confidentially.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in environmental science, environmental policy, natural resource management, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, depending on the specific requirements of the role and the level of responsibility involved.

Experience:
Candidates should have prior experience in environmental governance, project management, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of environmental issues, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the regional context and understanding of the specific environmental challenges faced by countries in West Asia will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the UNEP. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, given the regional focus of the position. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in relation to the countries being supported.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in UN House, Beirut, Lebanon. The volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. National UN Volunteers are part of a malicious insurance plan and are expected to be culturally sensitive and adapt to the local culture and traditions. The benefits package includes a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of USD 1,285.25, annual and learning leaves, medical and life insurance, and free access to various learning platforms. For more information on UN Volunteer benefits and entitlements, candidates are encouraged to visit the UNV website.