Civil Society Empowerment Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and local partners to address development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, sustainable development, and resilience to crises. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, contributing to its mission of promoting sustainable human development.

Job Overview:
The Civil Society Empowerment Specialist position is designed to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of civil society organizations in Iraq. The specialist will be responsible for developing strategies and programs that empower these organizations to engage in policy dialogue, advocacy, and service delivery. The role requires a deep understanding of the civil society landscape in Iraq, including the challenges and opportunities faced by local organizations. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including government entities, international organizations, and community groups, to foster collaboration and support for civil society initiatives. This position is critical in promoting democratic governance and ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard in decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Civil Society Empowerment Specialist will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Assessing the needs and capacities of civil society organizations in Iraq and identifying areas for support and development.
• Designing and implementing capacity-building programs tailored to the specific needs of local organizations.
• Facilitating workshops, training sessions, and seminars to enhance the skills and knowledge of civil society actors.
• Supporting civil society organizations in developing advocacy strategies and engaging in policy dialogue with government and other stakeholders.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of capacity-building initiatives and providing recommendations for improvement.
• Building partnerships with local, national, and international stakeholders to promote collaboration and resource sharing.
• Contributing to the development of UNDP’s strategies and policies related to civil society engagement and empowerment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Civil Society Empowerment Specialist position must possess a range of qualifications, including:

• Strong understanding of civil society dynamics, particularly in the context of Iraq.
• Proven experience in capacity building, training, and organizational development within civil society organizations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex situations and develop practical solutions.
• Familiarity with UNDP’s mission and objectives, as well as relevant international development frameworks.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should have at least a Master’s degree in social sciences, international development, public administration, or a related field. A PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant area may be an advantage. Continuous professional development and training in civil society engagement and empowerment will also be beneficial.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience working with civil society organizations, particularly in capacity building and empowerment initiatives. Experience in the context of Iraq or similar environments is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successful project management and implementation, as well as experience in stakeholder engagement and partnership building.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNDP and with international partners. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context and the need to engage with civil society organizations and communities in Iraq. Knowledge of other languages relevant to the region may also be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as an individual contractor role for a period of 12 months, with a total of 90 days of assignment. The contract may be extended based on performance and project needs. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work collaboratively with a diverse team. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, and additional benefits may be provided as per UNDP policies. The recruitment process is open to both national and international candidates.