Programme Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and human rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls worldwide. The organization aims to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's health and rights, while also striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Programme Adviser position is situated within the Gender, Human Rights Branch of the Programme Division at UNFPA. This role is pivotal as it involves providing strategic technical support and guidance on human rights, particularly reproductive rights, in alignment with the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the SDGs. The Programme Adviser will work collaboratively with various branches and regional offices to develop policies, frameworks, and operational strategies that promote human rights and ensure that no one is left behind. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between human rights and sexual and reproductive health, as well as the ability to navigate complex global discussions and advocate for marginalized groups. The Programme Adviser will also be responsible for capacity development, evidence dissemination, and technical representation of UNFPA's human rights initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Adviser will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Providing strategic technical support by identifying priority areas in human rights, particularly reproductive rights, and developing UNFPA's strategic positions and policies.
• Supporting the mainstreaming of human rights in national and regional efforts to improve sexual and reproductive health.
• Leading initiatives to ensure that marginalized groups, including Indigenous peoples and LGBTQI+ individuals, are included in UNFPA's programs.
• Collaborating with UN agencies and civil society to promote human rights and sexual and reproductive health.
• Developing indicators and quality assurance frameworks for human rights programming.
• Supporting capacity development of National Human Rights Institutions and government officials.
• Leading evidence and knowledge development related to human rights and SDG indicators.
• Representing UNFPA in international forums and advocating for human rights and gender equality.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in human rights and its linkages with reproductive health and poverty reduction strategies. They should have a deep understanding of gender equality policies and programs, as well as experience in legal issues and civil society involvement. An acknowledged expert in the field, the candidate should demonstrate a strong track record of technical leadership and the ability to produce measurable results. A broad network within the academic and development community is essential, along with field experience.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in human rights, development, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background should be directly relevant to the substantive area identified in the job title, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to excel in the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in human rights, with a minimum of 7 years at the international level. This experience should encompass a range of responsibilities related to human rights and its intersection with reproductive health and development, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the global landscape.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in French or Spanish is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset. Excellent drafting skills in English are required, with additional skills in French and/or Spanish being advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, and persons with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The organization is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, and compensation.