Local Consultant on Advocacy and Communication

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. Established in 1997, UNODC aims to assist member states in their efforts to combat drug trafficking, organized crime, and corruption while promoting justice and the rule of law. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to these missions. UNODC's work is guided by the principles of human rights and sustainable development, ensuring that its interventions are effective and equitable across diverse contexts.

Job Overview:
The position of Local Consultant on Advocacy and Communication is crucial for the successful implementation of the EU-UNODC JUST4ALL project, which focuses on enhancing probation services and improving the management of integrated criminal justice information systems in Kyrgyzstan. The consultant will be responsible for providing communication and visibility support for various project activities, including the closure of the project and the inauguration of renovated probation facilities. This role requires a strategic approach to public awareness raising, ensuring that the project's achievements are effectively communicated to stakeholders and the general public. The consultant will also contribute to the final reporting of the project, highlighting the impact of UNODC's interventions on justice reform in Kyrgyzstan. The position demands creativity, strong communication skills, and the ability to engage with diverse audiences through various media channels.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will oversee and manage public awareness initiatives related to the UNODC project interventions, including organizing and coordinating events, designing promotional materials, and collecting feedback from participants. Specific tasks include: 1) Providing communication and visibility support for the EU-UNODC JUST4ALL project closure event, including designing invitations, creating a concept note and agenda, and managing photography and videography. 2) Supporting the inauguration and handover of the renovated probation facility by compiling photo/video materials and drafting articles for social media. 3) Contributing to the final project report by providing inputs on communication and visibility efforts, consolidating project visibility products, and analyzing outreach statistics. 4) Drafting and coordinating the issuance of two newspaper articles that highlight the project's impact on justice reform in Kyrgyzstan. 5) Identifying training needs for project staff on communication skills and public outreach strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in international relations, communication, journalism, public relations, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in communication, social media management, or a relevant field is required. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record in strategic communication and public awareness campaigns, as well as experience in producing written content and multimedia for social media platforms. Previous experience working in an international organization is desirable but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as international relations, communication, journalism, or public relations. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of relevant experience to qualify for the position. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of communication within the context of international development and justice reform.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of professional experience in communication, social media management, or a related field. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to implement results-based strategic communication and public awareness campaigns. Experience in producing written content, as well as videos and graphics for social media, is essential. Familiarity with the workings of international organizations and their communication strategies is considered an asset, as it enhances the consultant's ability to navigate the complexities of the role effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Russian is required, with both oral and written proficiency necessary for effective communication in this role. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, proficiency in another United Nations official language would be considered an advantage, further enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and audiences.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based with no travel required, and the expected duration of the consultancy is from January 26, 2026, to March 31, 202

• The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and equitable for all candidates. This role is part-time and may involve flexible working hours to accommodate the consultant's schedule.