UN Volunteer Expert in Child Protection

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF is the United Nations agency that promotes the protection of the rights of children and adolescents, advocating for the visibility and addressing of complex rights violations affecting children in Colombia. Established 79 years ago, UNICEF operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on improving the lives of children and adolescents. The Colombia Country Program for the 2025-2028 programming cycle is guided by the new United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), which directs the collective support of the UN to achieve the 2030 Agenda. The program is aligned with three cooperation priorities identified by the Government and the UN: a) Support for the implementation of the Government's policy 'Peace with Legality', b) Migration as a development factor; and c) Technical assistance for the acceleration of the catalytic SDGs.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Expert in Child Protection will work on issues related to child marriage and early unions, violence against children, and gender-based violence. Under the supervision of the Protection Officer at UNICEF Colombia, the volunteer will lead UNICEF's work on gender-based violence (GBV), child marriage, and early unions (CMEU) within child protection, ensuring alignment with the new Country Program Document (CPD) and global strategies. The role involves coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the CMEU strategy across all programmatic areas, strengthening internal capacities through technical assistance and training, and representing UNICEF in national instances addressing GBV and CMEU. The volunteer will also ensure the integration of gender and CMEU in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, planning, reporting, and advocacy, while generating evidence on GBV and CMEU for policy formulation and program improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will be responsible for leading UNICEF's initiatives on GBV, CMEU, and gender within child protection. This includes coordinating the implementation of the CMEU strategy, strengthening capacities of UNICEF and strategic allies, representing UNICEF in national forums, monitoring the implementation of GBV strategies, generating evidence on GBV and CMEU, and fostering partnerships with government, civil society, and the private sector. The volunteer will also participate in gender task forces and contribute to the country office's gender strategy, ensuring quality implementation of programs through technical support and regular monitoring of results against indicators and targets.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of child protection issues, particularly in relation to GBV and CMEU. They should have experience in program management, monitoring and evaluation, and advocacy. Strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders are essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, including respect for diversity and a focus on results.

Educational Background:
A degree in social sciences, international development, human rights, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees are preferred, particularly in areas related to child protection, gender studies, or social work.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 3-5 years of relevant experience in child protection, gender-based violence, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly within the UN system, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the socio-political context of Colombia and previous work in similar roles will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, and proficiency in English is highly desirable. Knowledge of indigenous languages or other local dialects would be an asset.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is as indicated, with the possibility of extensions based on funding availability, operational needs, and satisfactory performance. The living allowance is COP $8,063,882 per month, covering housing, services, and ordinary living expenses. Volunteers will receive life, health, and permanent disability insurance, as well as final repatriation if applicable. This assignment requires full availability and exclusivity with the UN system. National UN Volunteers are responsible for securing their own housing and essentials for living.