Programme Officer, Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Regional Office for Central America and the Caribbean (ROPAN) of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The UNODC was established to assist Member States in their struggle against illicit drugs and international crime. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on various issues including drug trafficking, organized crime, and human trafficking. The mission of UNODC is to contribute to global peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting justice and the rule of law, and it employs a diverse workforce dedicated to these goals.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer will play a crucial role in managing, coordinating, and implementing technical cooperation projects aimed at combating human trafficking and migrant smuggling in Central America and the Caribbean. This position requires a deep understanding of the legal frameworks surrounding these issues, particularly the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons and the Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing projects that enhance criminal justice responses, providing technical assistance, and ensuring compliance with UN regulations. The role also involves significant collaboration with various stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, and international organizations, to promote effective strategies against trafficking and smuggling.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: managing and coordinating anti-human trafficking and migrant smuggling projects; promoting UNODC's work in these areas; developing and implementing technical assistance projects; monitoring and analyzing project implementation; contributing to the UNODC Action against Trafficking in Persons and the Smuggling of Migrants; facilitating training and capacity-building for criminal justice actors; preparing written outputs such as reports and analyses; providing support for meetings and conferences; and participating in field missions. The role also requires data collection and analysis to identify trends and support decision-making processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of human trafficking and migrant smuggling, as well as policies and practices in crime prevention and criminal justice. The ability to liaise with and train law enforcement and criminal justice officials is essential. Strong research and analytical skills are required, along with the capacity to manage conflicting priorities and work under pressure. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in management, law, international relations, political science, development studies, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related area is required. Experience in designing, delivering, monitoring, and evaluating multi-country technical assistance projects addressing human trafficking and migrant smuggling is essential. Additionally, experience in training development and delivery, as well as liaising with governments in Central America and the Caribbean, is desirable. Familiarity with the United Nations system or similar international organizations is also advantageous.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Spanish is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific language skill requirements.

Additional Notes:
The job is based in Panama City, Panama, and may involve field missions. The position is full-time and may require international travel. Specific details regarding contract duration, seniority level, and compensation are not provided in the job description.