UN Volunteer for Child Rights and Tourism

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) was established in 1946 to provide emergency food and healthcare to children in countries that had been devastated by World War II. In 1953, UNICEF became a permanent part of the United Nations system. Since its inception, UNICEF's mission has been to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to help meet their basic needs, and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential. UNICEF has been operational in Mexico since 1954, working in collaboration with the government, civil society organizations, and the private sector, guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The organization focuses on ensuring that all programs and initiatives reach the most disadvantaged and vulnerable children and adolescents, ensuring their rights are upheld.

Job Overview:
The selected candidate will work under the direct supervision of the Secretary of Tourism of Mexico City and in close coordination with the UNICEF Mexico Partnerships Specialist. The role involves supporting the planning, organization, and execution of activities coordinated by the Secretary of Tourism in the context of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ensuring the incorporation of a child rights approach and the prevention of violence against children and adolescents. The candidate will contribute to the design and implementation of a Child Tourism Plan for Mexico City, collaborating with UNICEF Mexico's designated team and key stakeholders to ensure protective measures, child participation, and the promotion of safe and friendly environments for children. The position also requires providing technical assistance in integrating child, gender, and diversity approaches into tourism, cultural, and sports activities related to the World Cup, facilitating awareness and training processes for public, private, and community institution personnel on national and international child protection standards, and supporting inter-institutional coordination among various stakeholders to strengthen actions for child protection during the World Cup.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties and responsibilities include: supporting the planning and execution of tourism activities related to the World Cup; contributing to the design of a Child Tourism Plan; providing technical assistance for integrating child rights in tourism activities; facilitating training for stakeholders on child protection standards; coordinating with various actors to strengthen child protection efforts; managing information and communication materials; organizing events that promote child participation; preparing reports and proposals related to the joint work plan; promoting strategic partnerships and resource mobilization for child-focused tourism initiatives; ensuring the incorporation of child protection measures in tourism activities; facilitating awareness processes on violence prevention; and supporting the design of activities that engage children in creating safe environments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong organizational skills, the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, and a commitment to child rights. They should demonstrate knowledge of child protection issues, particularly in the context of tourism and large events. The role requires excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to facilitate training and awareness sessions effectively. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of gender and diversity issues as they relate to child protection.

Educational Background:
A degree in social sciences, international relations, public policy, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child rights, tourism management, or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in child rights advocacy, tourism management, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of child protection and large-scale events, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Mexican context and previous work with government or civil society organizations will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, and proficiency in English is highly desirable. Knowledge of other languages relevant to the local context may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role, and the contract duration is typically for the duration of the project related to the World Cup. The role may involve working in challenging conditions, requiring flexibility and a strong commitment to child rights and protection. The position is based in Mexico City, which is the capital and largest city of Mexico, and candidates should be prepared for the cultural and social dynamics of the area.